As you may be aware, some students in Oregon are participating in a voluntary reading contest (Battle of the Books) featuring a book called “George,” that includes a 10-year-old transgender character. This has sparked conversation in our community about how and when educators and parents should talk to children about gender diversity. For some parents, these may be unfamiliar or intimidating topics. But there are developmentally appropriate ways to talk with students about gender that engender empathy and respect -- and don’t require parents to have PhDs in gender studies.

The purpose of this panel of local experts is to provide education and awareness about the challenges faced by transgender youth and adults in our schools and communities and to answer questions about how to have these conversations with children and youth. The panel will also discuss terminology, transition, transphobia, and strategies for supporting our youth in this open forum. 

Panelist include:
Dr. Rebecca Scrafford
St. Charles / COPA
Rebecca is a licensed psychologist who specializes in pediatrics. She does evaluations as part of the PEDAL clinic team and also serves as a behavioral health consultant at COPA. Rebecca also serves on the St. Charles workgroup advancing trans-inclusive care and co-chairs the Central Oregon Trans Health Coalition.

Jamie Bowman
Allyship in Action
Jamie is an equity facilitator with the consulting group Allyship in Action, through which she provides consultation and education on serving transgender youth. Jamie serves on the board of the Human Dignity Coalition, co-chairs the Central Oregon Trans Health Coalition, and is the mother of two transgender children. 

Teresa Ashford
Aspen Academy / OSU-Cascades 
Teresa has been in the field of early childhood education for over 20 years and has a background in Human Development and Family Sciences and Women Studies. In addition to running Aspen Academy Preschool, a developmentally-appropriate preschool rooted in social justice, Teresa teaches child and adolescent development and human sexuality for OSU-Cascades and Washington State University’s Global Campus.

Erin Rook
Better Together
Erin is the project facilitator for Better Together’s LGBTQ+ School Success Workgroup, a committee of local educators and advocates working to identify collaborative solutions to support the success of LGBTQ students in Central Oregon. He also serves as the diversity coordinator at OSU-Cascades, facilitates equity work with Allyship in Action, and co-chairs the Central Oregon Trans Health Coalition.