In his introduction, Sadowski writes, "Safety is an essential baseline…but it is not a sufficient goal in itself." Aimed at educators, this book lays out many clear and detailed ways that schools can better meet the needs of LGBTQ students. The author advocates for moving beyond antibullying policies, safe spaces (often indicated by stickers), and gay-straight alliances (GSAs) to creating a more inclusive curriculum and environment. Chapters address integrating LGBTQ issues in the classroom, comprehensive inclusiveness throughout the school, the important work some GSAs are doing, the impact of race and socioeconomic status, transgender students' unique needs, and avenues beyond GSAs for students to meet and talk. Sadowski profiles educators and programs, looks at policies, and offers arguments and counterarguments. He notes that progress is not uniform throughout the country and that students in some identity categories are more at risk than others. Additionally, there is a chapter dedicated to helping schools implement the ideas outlined here. It is clear that everyone benefits from more inclusive curriculum and policies and that moving beyond the idea of just being safe sends a stronger message of affirmation, value, respect, and acceptance. Though this is a brief volume, the detailed suggestions for advocacy and change are comprehensive and persuasive. Appended are a course syllabus, handouts, GSA materials, and a policy regarding transgender students that can be adapted for use. Online resources addressing curriculum, student support, and more are included. VERDICT As useful as it is essential.—Amanda MacGregor, formerly at Great River Regional Library, Saint Cloud, MN
From the Back Cover
In Safe Is Not Enough, Michael Sadowski highlights how educators can make their schools more supportive of LGBTQ students’ positive development and academic success. Using examples from classrooms, schools, and districts across the country, he identifies emerging practices such as creating an LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum; fostering a whole-school climate that is supportive of LGBTQ students; and initiating effective community outreach programs.
“This compelling volume showcases exemplary people and programs to inspire the next wave of school reform on behalf of sexual minority and transgender students. It proves that LGBTQ curricular inclusion and student affirmation is transformative, regardless of district demographics or culture.”
—Arthur Lipkin, author, Beyond Diversity Day: A Q&A on Gay and Lesbian Issues in Schools
“Michael Sadowski provides an exhilarating vision of the future we have long sought: schools that embrace and affirm LGBTQ youth and celebrate diversity. Our movement has led the nation in improving how LGBTQ students are treated, and this book provides a thrilling overview of the transformation underway in great schools nationally.”
—Eliza Byard, executive director, GLSEN
“Academic success is only possible when students know that they are safe, welcomed, and valued in the classroom and the school, and when LGBTQ identities are honored and included in the school curriculum. Safe Is Not Enough gives educational leaders meaningful strategies for transforming the organizational- and classroom-level response to supporting LGBTQ students.”
—Christopher McGinley, professor of educational leadership, Temple University, and former superintendent of Lower Merion School District, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
Michael Sadowski is a faculty member in education at Bard College and is the director of the Bard Early College-Hudson Initiative. Kevin Jennings is the executive director of the Arcus Foundation.
About the Author
Michael Sadowski is a faculty member in education at Bard College and is the director of the Bard Early College-Hudson Initiative.
Kevin Jennings is the executive director of the Arcus Foundation.
