LGBTQ-focused sessions featured at 2025 NJEA teachers convention
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – The New Jersey Education Association is highlighting LGBTQIA+ inclusion and advocacy as part of its upcoming 2025 teachers convention, with multiple sessions dedicated to supporting educators and students.
The convention, scheduled for November 6 and 7, will feature discussions, workshops, and networking events centered on classroom inclusion, student safety, and civil rights protections.
Educators are also being invited to nominate peers for the NJEA’s Equality Champion Award, which honors members who have shown exceptional advocacy for LGBTQIA+ students and colleagues.
Key Points
- The 2025 NJEA Convention includes sessions on LGBTQIA+ education, rights, and advocacy.
- Workshops will cover inclusive curricula, civil rights protections, and support for transgender and nonbinary students.
- Nominations for the NJEA Equality Champion Award close October 31.
Sessions focus on classroom inclusion and student rights
The first day of the convention will feature “Q-riculum: LGBTQ+ in the English Classroom,” presented by educator Collin J. Rossi, examining ways to integrate LGBTQIA+ history and narratives into literature and lesson plans. Another session, led by Scott Hirschfield, will focus on “Protecting the Civil Rights of LGBTQIA+ Students,” providing guidance based on New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination.
Day two highlights advocacy and community engagement
On November 7, the convention will host a “SOGI Breakfast” organized by the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee, giving educators and allies a chance to connect and discuss inclusion strategies. Later, Carol Watchler, Micki David, D. Gary Frye, and Chris Budin will lead “Standing Up for Transgender & Non-Binary Students,” a session focused on terminology, student experiences, and advocacy tools.
NJEA encourages recognition of equality leaders
The NJEA is also seeking nominations for its annual Equality Champion Award, recognizing educators who demonstrate leadership in advancing LGBTQIA+ equality and creating safe learning environments. The nomination deadline is October 31, and submissions can be made through the NJEA website.
The statewide convention remains one of New Jersey’s largest professional development gatherings for educators, drawing thousands of attendees each year for sessions on teaching strategies, student support, and educational policy.