To the editor:

When I attended Marshall Junior High a few decades ago, there was a student in my grade whose attire, voice, hair style, and demeanor did not conform to my expectations for their gender. My friends and I would ask about their style choices over lunch break and we were offended that they would not accept our “kind” advice on how to better fit in. I also remember stifling giggles during the passing of the peace in church when my grandmother mis-gendered this same individual.

I can attest that this person’s “choices” to be themself had no impact on my own religious or gender identity today, but I do feel deep regret that I chose to be unkind to them rather than to lead with love and understanding.

My daughter currently attends Marshall Middle School and I am proud of how wonderfully accepting she is. I have witnessed her fearlessly correct adults when they have mis-gendered her cousin or called a friend by her former name. I cannot take full credit for her allyship, but I am doing my best to encourage it. I am disappointed that I cannot say the same for our school district.

I applaud Mary Kay Thomas for standing up under for our children and striving to create a more inclusive school for all of Marshall’s children.

To those who encouraged the removal of the Pride flag and Ms. Thomas’ demotion: it is okay to admit mistakes and grow from them. I do my utmost to continue to learn from my mistakes, past and present. Are you able to do the same?

Now is your opportunity to model learning for your students, many of whom already understand much more than you do.

Barbra Springer

Marshall