'You Come Out Because You Can't Not': A Gay Teacher's Perspective (Video)
High school writing teacher Patty Smith discusses the importance of building an LGBT-inclusive school community.
'You Come Out Because You Can't Not': A Gay Teacher's Perspective (Video)
High school writing teacher Patty Smith discusses the importance of building an LGBT-inclusive school community. Smith's desire to create a safe space for all students was the result of her personal decision to come out as a lesbian. "It's hard to do anything when you can't be yourself," she explains.
Special Collection: Beyond Bias: Countering Stereotypes in School
See also: Patty Smith was featured in GLSEN founder Kevin Jennings' One Teacher in Ten in the New Millennium (Beacon Press, 2015). To read an interview with Jennings, please visit: "Q&A With GLSEN Founder: LGBT Teachers Still Face Barriers"
Filmed & Edited By: Deanna Del Ciello and Swikar Patel | Story Editor: Elizabeth Rich | Interviews By: Luke Towler
A version of this article appeared in the February 17, 2016 edition of Education Week