OTTAWA (CNW) - On the eve of the International Day Against Homophobia, the Canadian Teachers' Federation (CTF) is proud to release its latest educational resource, Supporting Transgender and Transsexual students in K-12 Schools, the fifth publication in an educational series designed to assist teachers, administrators and counselors in understanding sexual and gender minority issues. Authored by Dr. Kristopher Wells, Gayle Roberts and Carol Allan, the 57-page guidebook aims to demystify gender variance and provide evidence-based information for educators wishing to create caring, respectful and safe learning environments for all students.

"Transgender and transsexual students are too often the targets of bullying, discrimination and violence in schools today," explains CTF President Paul Taillefer. "No child should go to school in fear."

"The CTF guidebook aims to heighten professional knowledge, understanding and sensitivity around gender variance issues and offers practical strategies to create more inclusive classrooms, plans for in-school transitions and suggestions for ways to support parents/guardians with transitioning children," adds Taillefer.

"CTF has long been an advocate for safe and caring schools for all students and teachers and this is why we recommend that this resource be on the must-read list of every school teacher, staff member, administrator and school board member in Canada." Supporting Transgender and Transsexual Students in K-12 Schools has received national and international acclaim and endorsements from the Canadian Professional Association for Transgender Health, PFLAG Canada, Journal of LGBT Youth, and numerous clinicians, academics and researchers.

"We salute the authors who have shared their knowledge and compassion. By sharing our collective wisdom, schools will become more compassionate and understanding places where all students, teachers and families can find the support they so richly deserve," concludes Taillefer.

The per unit cost is $5 (bulk order discounts will apply) and is available for online ordering: http://www.ctf-fce.ca/catalogue/default.aspx?lang=EN

An alliance of 15 Member organizations and one Affiliate Member representing nearly 200,000 teachers across the country, the Canadian Teachers' Federation (CTF) is a member of the international body of teachers, Education International (EI). Follow CTF on Twitter @CTFPresident, @CanTeachersFed @EnseigneCanada



For further information:

Comments: Paul Taillefer, CTF President

Contact: Francine Filion, director of Communications, 613-688-4314