The In-Service

On Sunday night, Kim Pearson, president of Trans Youth Family Allies, arrived at our house. Outspoken and funny, Kim decided to stay with us to save money for TYFA. For me, it was a milestone -- it was the first other parent of a transgender child I have met. I got to ask a lot of questions, and Kim was frank and honest in her answers. Her son, Sean, is transgender. She's well integrated into the trans community and talked to me about resources. Importantly, she didn't bat an eye at Jessica.

She had one-on-one talks with all three kids. She was shut upstairs with Rosi for about two hours. Afterwards, Alejandra said, "Talking with Miss Kim was better than talking to my therapist. She really understands transgender kids and what their families are going through." That right there made it all worth it.

On Monday, I took Kim to Jess and Finn's school for the in-service. In attendance was Finn's teacher, Jess's teacher, Jess's old teacher from kindergarten, the nurse, the counselor and two teachers from Ale's school. There were more, but I didn't know them. The session was an hour and a half. I couldn't attend, because they want the participants to be able to speak freely.

After the session, while I was waiting for Kim, Jess's kindergarten teacher came over to the car. Jess ran to hide in the back of the van -- the first time I had seen her embarrassed. But the teacher sent the greatest note. Here is what she wrote.

Hi,
I know we didnt get too much time to chat today, but I just wanted to tell you a couple things that I have been thinking about. I want to tell you again what a joy it was to have your child in my class last year. I got to know (male name) over the course of the year and just adored him. He had such a warm and kind heart towards others, was always willing to help, consistently set good examples for others and always had the biggest smile. He was just a delight to be around! What I want to say from all that.... I know Jessica was a little bit shy to see me today, and I just want her to know that I still love her just the same as the student I had last year. I know she has that same big heart and genuine kindness towards others that makes her so special. To me, it does not matter if she lives as (male name) or Jessica, I love her just the same. I believe it is the heart inside the person that makes them who they are. Please let her know that I really think she is so special and hope that she still comes to say hello even though she is a big first grader now!

Thanks for letting me be her kindergarten teacher!
Wasn't that sweet?

After the session, Kim said, "You won't have any trouble." She said she can tell when schools aren't accepting or ready, but she felt our school was engaged and supportive. We will see ...