Navigating Queerness in Schools: Keri McDonough's Journey of Self-Discovery and LGBTQ Inclusivity

Teaching While Queer: Advocacy For LGBTQ Folks In Schools & Education To Live & Work As Your Authentic Self

Ask A Queer Educator

Teaching While Queer, Season 2 Episode 11
How does a queer, non-binary AFAB individual navigate through a conservative, all-female Catholic high school and find their identity? What if the era is the early 2000s and technological resources are bare to none? Meet our guest, Keri McDonough (they/them), who shares this fascinating journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Keri, now an assistant director at an LGBTQ Center at a university in Rhode Island, candidly reveals their struggles and triumphs of being a queer student in a rigid environment.
Keri's narrative takes us on a deeper journey as they explores themes of gender identity, body dysmorphia, and the power of community among queer peers. Their courage to express their queerness and navigate through a complex school system to their present role in higher education offers invaluable insights. Particularly compelling is their discussion on the intersectionality of body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria – a unique perspective that can greatly benefit anyone experiencing similar struggles.
The conversation then shifts to the realm of academia. Keri offers essential advice to college professors on how to create LGBTQ-inclusive spaces and support students transitioning into college life, especially during the pandemic. They also provides practical steps for LGBTQ individuals to navigate the job market and build a safe and inclusive work environment. From considering the intersectional needs of marginalized communities to providing a roadmap to avoid burnout and set boundaries, Keri's wisdom is a beacon of light in a world that often overlooks the struggles of LGBTQ educators.

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The podcast explores the challenges and successes of LGBTQ representation in education, addressing issues such as burnout, tokenism, doxing, and the importance of advocacy in creating inclusive classrooms, safe spaces, and anti-bullying strategies, with a focus on supporting non-binary teachers and gender identity in schools to combat the feeling of isolation and lack of community.

Chapters

1. Navigating Queerness in Schools: Keri McDonough's Journey of Self-Discovery and LGBTQ Inclusivity (00:00:00)

2. Teaching While Queer (00:00:05)

3. LGBTQ+ Elder's Journey and Personal Reflections (00:14:58)

4. Gender and Body Dysmorphia in LGBTQ+ (00:19:26)

5. Supporting Students' Social-Emotional Transition in College (00:26:13)

6. Creating LGBTQ-Inclusive Spaces in Academia (00:34:04)

7. Avoid Burnout for LGBTQ Educators (00:45:25)