Respecting Every Learner — Finding Balance with Pronouns and Policies

In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin explores how teachers can create inclusive classrooms by using neutral, professional language and respecting students’ chosen names and pronouns. Learn practical strategies for balancing policies, honoring identities, and building a learning community where every student feels seen, safe, and valued.

Check out more at www.ginapepin.com

Transcript

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Welcome back to Let's Talk Teacher to Teacher. Today's episode is all about something that's becoming increasingly important in our schools. Respecting every learner for who they are. If you're a teacher, you've probably noticed the shift away from using gendered language like boys and girls. For some students, those words simply don't fit who they are. And that can be really confusing to navigate at first. As educators we just want to get it this right. We want to be inclusive and of course we want to be respectful while also following these policies and honoring each student's identity. At the true heart of it all, our goal is simple. It's to build a learning community where everyone feels safe, seen, and truly valued. When we use language that welcomes every student, we create a space where they can focus on what really matters. Learning, growing, and Let's talk a little bit more about why language matters. Language shapes the way students see themselves and how they feel they belong. When we say boys and girls, it might feel harmless, but for students who don't identify with either label, it can create a quiet sense of exclusion. Instead, more teachers are choosing gender-neutral group addresses, things like friends, friends, scholars, readers, scientists, team, or even just everyone. These words focus on what students can do and who they are as learners and not their gender. While words like friends and scholars are generally safe and welcoming as well, it's important to be really super conscious and intentional about the language we choose because terms like brother or sister while meant to be friendly, can carry personal, cultural, or gendered meanings that may not apply to every student. And they can come across as overly informal or even unprofessional in a school setting. So choosing neutral classroom appropriate words helps ensure that all students feel respected without assumptions about their identity or even their relationships. Let's talk a little bit about balancing pronouns and policies. Of course, finding the right balance means respecting both individual identity and school or district policies. So here are a few steps to help you navigate through this carefully, consciously, and professionally. First, learn your school's policies on names and pronouns so you know what's expected and supported. Next, ask privately, never publicly. If you're unsure about a student's pronouns, have a respectful a one-on-one conversation or check their student information if it's been updated. And of course, the third one is model respect. Use each student's chosen name and pronouns consistently. If you make a mistake, correct it and quickly move on without making it a big moment. Again, all of these things are going to be based upon your school district policies. Offering neutral alternatives when speaking to groups like friends, class, or learners. is also a great option to utilize so no one feels singled out. Building a respectful culture is another aspect that is highly important. So at the heart of this is a simple truth. Students learn best when they feel respected. By being intentional with our words, we're telling students, you matter, you belong here, all of you. So folks, honestly, it's not about erasing gender or taking a stance on personal beliefs in this matter. It's really about making space for everyone. And that's something every single student deserves at any age and grade level. Choosing inclusive terms like friends, learners, and scholars can really just be a super simple, respectful way to address the whole class without singling anyone out. So thanks for joining me today on Let Let's talk teacher to teacher and remember a small, simple change in language can make a big difference in a student's world. Let's keep building classrooms that honor every single learner. Until next time.