For many of us, it was hard to wake up this morning. For the Upper Elementary and Middle School students at Abintra Montessori School in Nashville, Tennessee, scary news turned into immediate action, and it's the kind of inspiration you definitely need to see right now. Students who arrived at school early began making signs that read "Not Afraid," "Stronger Together," and "Love and respect for all. We love you LGBTQ! Women! Immigrants!" They greeted everyone who pulled up in the drop-off line with hugs and cries of love, a beautiful surprise on a historically tragic day. Office and Communications Manager Emily Allen - who also takes photos for the school and leads diversity discussions with older elementary students - had no idea she'd be greeted this way this morning, but with this school's amazing gender and sexuality education programs for kids, it's no surprise these students were so ready to spread love.
photo credit: Emily Allen
"Starting at Early Childhood we have a clear message that all students and families are equal and accepted," Emily explained, of Abintra's inspiring programs, "We have a diverse library with books that reflect family structures of all different kinds, including Tango Makes Three. In Upper Elementary, we have specific discussions with the students about respecting our own identities and other identities, regardless of sexuality and gender, with a focus on the vast gender and sexuality spectrum. Conversations are centered around GLSEN days of action, like 'No Name-Calling Week' and 'Ally Week.'"
photo credit: Emily Allen
Upon speaking with Abintra's Executive Director, Sherry Knott, we also learned that the school didn't stop its election education at the procession of positivity. In the classroom today, they've done intense research on visualizing voter numbers, the electoral college, and vocabulary brought up by students like "concede" and "deport." They watched Hillary Clinton's concession speech, discussed the glass ceiling, and what this outcome means for women fighting to be heard and respected in their fields. Together, they expressed concerns, and they discussed peaceful, hopeful recovery. I hope our future is as bright as Abintra was this morning, and I am overwhelmed to see that, with these kids at the helm, we really will move forward.
photo credit: Emily Allen
When they go low, we go high.
