Osseo Area Schools is committed to ensuring equitable student achievement for each and every scholar and offering school environments where everyone feels safe, welcome and respected.
The following update shares further details on the path of the LGBTQIA+ History and Culture Resolution. One of the components shared addresses the next steps with classroom learning. Our schools will only be incorporating the instructional lesson of this resolution in grades 9 through 12. There will not be any instructional pieces in our elementary or middle schools.
Thank you for your continued partnership in reaching the dreams of each and every scholar at Osseo Area Schools.
How has Minnesota law prohibited discrimination?
Since the 1950s, the state of Minnesota has enacted laws that prohibit discrimination. In 1993, specifically, the Minnesota Human Rights Act clarified that discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation and gender identity or gender expression is prohibited. The Safe and Supportive Schools Act further expanded on this in 2014.
Please refer to the Aug. 15, 2023 work session presentation for a full listing of Minnesota law focused on discrimination.
Does school board policy align with Minnesota law?
Yes. Over the years, our school board has been approving policies that parallel with our state’s discrimination laws. Most recently the school board approved Policy 508: Gender Inclusion.
Please refer to the Aug. 15, 2023 work session presentation for a full listing of school board policies that parallel with Minnesota law.
What are all the components of the school board-approved resolution?
The school board resolution, called the LGBTQIA+ History and Culture Resolution, was approved by board members in June 2022. It further supports existing school board policies. Please refer to the board-approved document for further details.
What is the progress of Policy 508?
Professional development for staff
Last spring site leaders - the principals at district schools - and teaching and learning leaders, received foundational professional development to support their learning around Policy 508 and the LGBTQIA+ History and Culture Resolution.
In the classroom
- Who: Students in grades 9-12.
- What: Students in grades 9-12 will receive one short lesson on pronouns and the contributions of LGBTQIA+ persons throughout history. This content, which is still being developed by our Learning and Achievement team, will be shared during advisory.
- When: Starting in April 2024.
- Opt-out opportunity: Parents/caregivers may choose to opt their student in grades 9-12 out of receiving this short lesson. Steps to be shared late winter.
- K-8 students: Lessons are not planned for students in grades kindergarten through grade eight this school year.