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Protecting Students, Building Power
- Carol Tappenden
- Nov 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 14
November is Transgender Awareness Month, a time to turn visibility into action. Across Arizona, students and families are pushing back against efforts to erase inclusion, from Peoria’s vote to ban DEI programs to state leaders rolling back equity in schools. At the same time, local voters approved key bonds that keep public schools open and funded, proving that communities still believe in education for all.
This week’s postcard highlights that tension and the power of showing up, speaking out, and holding the line for safe, affirming schools.
🏳️⚧️ Feature Article
Beyond Awareness: Building Real Safety for Trans Students
Transgender Awareness Month isn’t just about visibility, it’s about action. Across Arizona, trans students are showing courage and leadership even as their rights are challenged in classrooms and courts. Awareness matters, but safety requires more than posters and pronouns. It takes policies that protect, educators who affirm, and communities that refuse to stay silent.
🏫 School Board Action:
Peoria Unified Vote on DEI Ban
The Peoria Unified School District board will hold its next meeting this week Thursday, November 13 at 6:00 PM at 6330 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale, AZ 85306.
The proposed policy to ban Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs is expected to move toward final adoption.
If you wish to speak against this harmful policy, please arrive early and sign up to speak starting at 5:00 PM. Every voice matters.
You can also show up in solidarity to fill the room and stand with educators, families, and students who believe in inclusion for all. Bring a sign, bring a friend, and help show that our community supports welcoming schools.
Need help preparing your remarks? Email policy@justschools.org for talking points and support.
👉 Take Action In Your School District
Apply to become a Just Schools Hall Monitor volunteer and help track what’s happening in your district. We’ll train you to spot red flags, understand policy decisions, and share reports that strengthen our collective advocacy for inclusive, well-funded schools.
🗳️ Civic Engagement: Local Elections
Arizona voters approved most school bond and override measures in the November 4 election which is a sign that communities continue to back public education and essential services even in a hostile climate. These local wins help keep public schools open, staffed, and safer for students. While the state continues to roll back diversity and equity programs, local funding still matters. It’s how communities protect what remains of public education.
🗞️ In the News
Arizona teacher shortage at ‘catastrophic’ levels.
State Superintendent Horne called the crisis “permanent,” as thousands of classrooms remain without certified teachers. Read more →
Supreme Court limits gender marker rights.
The ruling opens the door for federal restrictions on gender markers in passports, impacting the right of trans people to be recognized for who they are. Read more →
Florida book bans face legal pushback.
Lawsuits are challenging Florida’s expansive book bans that target LGBTQ+ and racial justice content, now reaching appellate courts. Read more →
Queer representation grows on primetime TV.
Shows like Abbott Elementary and Hacks are helping shift national culture by normalizing queer storylines and characters. Read more →
🧾 Discrimination & Harassment Complaint Form
Queer students continue to face discrimination, slurs, and harassment from peers and even faculty. That’s not “part of growing up.” It’s unlawful and preventable.
Documenting these incidents matters. Each report ensures state officials can’t ignore the problem. Bullying and discrimination harm students’ education, mental health, and safety.
💪 Stand With Students
Every student deserves to feel safe, supported, and seen at school. Your involvement, whether as a Hall Monitor, volunteer, or donor – keeps that promise alive. Get involved today!
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