Robert Ward, Jersey’s Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, unequivocally backs the trans guidance given to schools. His discussion of its importance in providing space for students who are working through their gender identity needs to be [ read in full ] A–Z Social Studies Teacher Networking & Collaboration. This response comes in the wake of a petition that gathered 1,062 signatures. The petition is calling on officials to withdraw this guidance until after proper consultation with parents has been undertaken.
In a press release last month, Ward proclaimed the guidance an “important resource for schools.” He further stressed that it is intended to serve less than 1 percent of the school-age population at most. He sought to reassure stakeholders by stating that few children and families would be impacted by this new guidance.
The petition called for an immediate halt to the outdated guidelines. It was meant to ensure meaningful parent engagement before any decisions are made. Ward reiterated over and over again that the guidance was not going to be withdrawn. Rather than answer his questions, he called again for creating a culture where honest discussions with parents come first.
“The guidance makes it clear that open dialogue with parents is our goal.” – Robert Ward
Ward further responded to concerns expressed about three particular books that were part of the listed guidance. As he explained, these resources are not toys — they are professional educational tools and they are not meant for kids to play with. This distinction is meant to address concerns about the content and what is or is not appropriate for a public school classroom.
In an interview with BBC, Ward was, unfortunately, misquoted about the confidentiality of students’ identities. He promised the public that they would never reveal the identity of students. He assured on their behalf how serious they were about privacy and being respectful to all.
“We won’t be ‘outing’ them to anyone on the sole basis of their identity.” – Robert Ward
Ward, who is also known as Deputy Robert Ward, was recently photographed wearing a navy suit and a navy tie spotted with white while discussing these pressing issues. In the photos featured in the BBC article, he looks directly at the camera, signaling a strong stance on this contentious topic.
Jersey is on the frontlines of shifting conversations around gender identity in schools and educational settings. At the same time, our Robert Ward is a true believer that the new trans guidance is a very valuable tool. Through building understanding and community conversations, he aims to create a safe space for all students.
