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Pride & Progress (2 of 2): LGBTQ+ Intensive Teen Summer Camp

In this part two semester homeschool high school class we will explore even more about the history of the LGBTQ+ community & trailblazers who were activists. We look more in-depth into some topics from the part one class plus brand new topics too. Worth a 1 full year credit.
Outschool Teen Educator: Dr. Kai Kafferly, PhD
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What's included

13 live meetings
6 hrs 30 mins in-class hours
Homework
2-4 hours per week. 🎒 The homework tasks outlined below may seem demanding at first, but they are designed to be manageable and engaging! Please read this carefully, and if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to me through private messaging on Outschool. I’m happy to accommodate each teen's individual needs. 📋 Quick Weekly Work Overview: • Study and read all of the articles, videos, and images in all of the assignments. • 2 Assignments with questions • 1 Current Event assignment • Taking notes from various sources to present & share their understanding during our live meetings To succeed in this class, students will need effective time management skills and strong self-motivation to learn the material independently. This accelerated class has due dates designed to keep students on track. I give rich & detailed feedback on all assignments for students to learn from. 👍
Progress Report
📁 Even though I don’t rely on standard assessments, tests, or quizzes, my approach is more like a “portfolio” system. I assess students weekly, using the following criteria: 1. Participation and thoroughness in sharing their notes as presentations (giving a talk) during our live video meetings held once a week. 2. Active engagement with weekly assignments, including their responsiveness to my feedback. 3. Effort and dedication shown in their work, research, and final project, tailored to their abilities. 4. Participation in current news discussions and presenting weekly current event slideshows during live video meetings. 5. Overall class engagement and contribution. ✨ I send a progress report every three weeks, and assessments are individualized to fit each student’s needs, challenges, and abilities. Just as instruction is personalized, so are assessments, ensuring each student's growth. Let's work together to create an enriching learning experience for your teen!
Certificate of Completion
💯 For parents who wish to receive a grade and certificate for this class: I can issue a certificate of completion with a letter grade and one credit. To request the certificate, please message me through your Outschool Parent Account by the third day after our final meeting. Although I don’t provide grades during the class, you’re welcome to ask for progress updates anytime. The final grade is based on: 1. Participation in live meetings and presentations. 2. Engagement with assignments and feedback. 3. Effort in research and the final project. 4. Weekly current event presentations. 5. Overall involvement. 🎓 The certificate includes your teen's name, "Outschool," course name, end date, one credit, and a letter grade. I don’t fail any students, as I believe all gain valuable knowledge. Assessments are personalized to each student’s needs and growth. A = Excellent B = Great C = Good D = Satisfactory

Class Experience

US Grade 9 - 12
Intermediate - Advanced Level
WELCOME! Join me for an adventure in learning ✨️

📚🌎 Welcome to the next level of exploration in LGBTQ Studies! Inspired by college-level disciplines like Humanities, Sociology, and Cultural Anthropology, this Intensive Summer Camp aims to foster a deep understanding, respect, and acceptance for all. We stand firmly by the belief that every individual deserves profound respect and equal rights, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Let’s create a space of inclusivity and empowerment for everyone as we continue this enriching journey! 🌈✨

✏️ This is not your typical 'fluff' class – it’s packed with engaging, meaningful content that challenges students while keeping things exciting and fun! We dive deep, discuss, and learn actively together, making each session an adventure in understanding. Join us for a class that’s both rigorous and full of enthusiasm! 😊

⚠️ NOTE: Please note that completion of my "Pride & Progress (1 of 2): LGBTQ+ Studies, Culture & History for Teens" self-paced class is an essential prerequisite for enrollment in this course. Part two significantly broadens and enhances the knowledge acquired in the part one class. Your understanding and compliance are greatly appreciated. Thank you!

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🏳️‍🌈 Welcome to the exhilarating world of the LGBTQ+ Community! If you thought the first part was exciting, get ready to take things up a notch as we delve deeper into the broad spectrum of LGBTQ+ topics. From iconic figures who have shaped history to monumental events that have defined the movement, this class offers an accessible, engaging, and utterly gripping overview of LGBTQ identities and the interdisciplinary nature of sexuality studies. This course is designed to inspire curiosity, deepen understanding, and celebrate diversity. 🎉📚

🚀 Together, we’ll embark on a captivating journey filled with diverse and enriching activities. We’ll explore thought-provoking articles about influential LGBTQ+ personalities who have made significant contributions to society and culture. We’ll relive pivotal moments in LGBTQ history through enlightening videos that bring these events to life. And we’ll broaden our perspectives by listening to podcasts that offer a range of voices and viewpoints on LGBTQ+ matters. This classroom is a vibrant mix of academic rigor and creative exploration, ensuring that learning is not just informative but a true adventure! 🌈✨

In this course, your teen will dive into various interdisciplinary themes that bridge history, literature, art, and social sciences. We’ll explore how the LGBTQ+ community has navigated and influenced these fields, and how these contributions continue to shape contemporary culture and society. 🌍💖

Each week, students will engage in the following:

Thought-Provoking Articles  
Students will read articles about groundbreaking LGBTQ+ figures and movements, reflecting on how these individuals and events have impacted the world. They’ll explore stories of courage, creativity, and resilience, gaining insights into the personal and collective journeys of LGBTQ+ communities. 📖

Enlightening Videos
Through carefully selected videos, we’ll witness key historical moments, explore current issues, and learn about the diverse experiences of LGBTQ+ people. These visual resources will provide context and depth to our discussions, making the history and culture of the LGBTQ+ community come alive. 🎥

Diverse Podcasts  
Listening to various podcasts, students will hear from voices within the community, exploring topics ranging from personal experiences to broader social and political issues. These discussions will help students develop a nuanced understanding of the complexities of LGBTQ+ life. 🎧

Creative Projects
We’ll incorporate creative projects like virtual posters, digital storytelling, and animated slideshows, allowing students to express what they’ve learned in imaginative and personal ways. These projects will foster a deeper connection to the material and provide opportunities for creative expression. 🎨✨

Engaging Discussions and Kahoot Games
Live meetings will include vibrant group discussions where students can share their thoughts and reflections on the week’s topics. We’ll also have some fun with interactive Kahoot games to review what we’ve learned, keeping the atmosphere lively and engaging. 🎮🤩

Weekly Current Event Reports 
To connect our studies with the real world, each student will research a current event related to LGBTQ+ issues and present a short oral report during our live meetings. This will not only reinforce their learning but also enhance their research and public speaking skills. 💬🗣️

👀 Dive into the "Syllabus" section below for all the crucial details and our thrilling weekly schedule! 📅 

This class promises to be an enlightening and empowering experience, equipping your teen with even more knowledge and empathy to understand and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Get ready for an educational adventure that’s sure to leave a lasting impact. Let’s continue this incredible journey together, celebrating the vibrant diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and building a more inclusive and compassionate world! 🚀🌟📚

👍 High school doesn't have to be a tedious journey marked by long semesters and strict timelines. Let's break free from that mold! Think of high school in terms of grade levels and credits. After all, high school credit is about the knowledge and effort your teen puts in, not the weeks or months they spend studying. With this perspective, we can accelerate your teen's learning journey. However, remember to follow your state's homeschooling laws, as parents are legally considered teachers in the eyes of the Department of Education. But don't forget the freedom and flexibility you have in crafting your teen's education!

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🗓️ In our first live meeting, I'll introduce myself, the subject, and provide background information. Students will then introduce themselves by giving their preferred name, the state they live in, why they chose to take this class, and a fun fact about themselves. We'll go over what the class involves such as the weekly assignments. I'll also introduce the first week's readings and provide guidance for the chapter ahead. Each week, there's a short introductory video to get us started.

🗓️ In subsequent live meetings, we'll have meaningful group discussions about the previous week's readings, lessons, and homework where each student will give a short talk about their newly assimilated knowledge via their notes. Students will also share their current events via short oral reports, and I'll introduce the new week's chapters, lessons, and homework. Questions are encouraged, and I'm here to provide answers and support. I teach by adding additional information and details during the discussion and by adding additional information and context to student's answers on their assignments.

✨️ Our thrilling weekly rendezvous via live meetings for 45 minutes after our initial meeting unfolds like this:

1.) 🤗🙋‍♂️ Welcome & Check-in 

2.) 🗣 📰 Engage in dynamic discussions as students enthusiastically present their Current Events, complete with their slideshows tailored to the week's topic.

3.) 🗣💡Students share & exchange insights on newfound knowledge, intriguing discoveries, and crucial topics from the previous week's readings, videos, and additional independent research they may have done by taking notes of the information and orally presenting a summary in the format of "giving a short talk" of what they learned in the past week to spark discussions. Every student has a voice in my classes! The educator adds valuable input & additional information along the way. 

4.) 🗣🍎 Immerse in an interactive mini-lecture by the educator, delving deeper into the chapters of the past week & providing answers to student's questions. 

5.) 💻📚 Anticipate the excitement as the educator unveils the upcoming week's captivating topics and assignments, setting the stage for an enriching learning experience. 

6.) 🚀🎮 Embrace the joy of learning through a spirited Kahoot session, reinforcing the week's lessons with a touch of friendly competition. 

7.) 🤔✔️ Conclude with closing remarks, leaving room for questions, issues, problems, concerns & suggestions from students. 

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Your tuition covers so much to ensure your teen has a fulfilling and supportive learning experience! 🎉 This includes weekly live meetings, engaging assignments, and exciting projects, all conducted in our virtual classroom. I provide detailed feedback on each student's work, plan lessons weekly, and grade homework with care. 💼✨

🍎 📃 Here's a list of everything I do "behind the scenes" 7 days a week, each week to support our class: 

• Provide detailed feedback on every student's assignments, adding extra context, information, and examples to enhance learning 📚✨

• Design fun and educational Kahoot games for our live meetings to make learning enjoyable 🎉🎮

• Carefully plan each week's lessons and assignments for posting to the "Assignments" tab in the classroom to ensure meaningful engagement and progress 📅 ✍️

• Respond to all parent and student private messages within 24 hours to stay connected and supportive 💬📥

• Prepare progress reports every three weeks for each learner, giving parents a snapshot of their teen's achievements and areas of growth 📊📋

• Grade homework thoroughly, ensuring every detail is reviewed to guide improvement and celebrate strengths 📝💯

• Prepare and host our weekly live meetings, where students can interact, ask questions, and deepen their understanding through engaging discussions plus prepare my mini-lecture for after their shares 🌍🗣️

• Create engaging assignments and exciting projects, making our virtual classroom an inspiring place to learn and grow 💼🌱

Your tuition covers all of this and so much more, ensuring your teen has a supportive, fulfilling, and dynamic learning experience! 🌟

I’m fully committed to supporting your teen every step of the way, offering assistance seven days a week! You can count on quick responses to messages within 24 hours, and I’m also available for private, one-on-one video meetings up to two times during the semester, if needed, to provide extra help or guidance. 😊 It’s my goal to make sure your teen feels supported and successful throughout the course! 

📚 As professional educators, we recognize that students benefit most from interactive sessions, not long or even moderate lectures. We strive to be coaches, guides, and mentors, facilitating meaningful conversations through strategic questioning and creating valuable teaching moments.

🔁 👐 In my class, I use an exciting blend of both the flipped classroom and open classroom models to create a dynamic and engaging learning experience for your teen! These models are highly effective at helping students truly grasp the material. 💡 The flipped classroom approach means students come to our weekly live meetings fully prepared by engaging with lesson materials beforehand—whether it's through videos, textbook readings, or even independent research. During our live sessions, students step into the role of both learner and teacher by giving a verbal presentation on their takes and learnings from the weekly lesson!  

🗣 ✍️ Students give verbal presentations based on their note-taking, sharing what they’ve absorbed from the weekly lesson materials with their classmates. This is such a powerful way for them to solidify their understanding, and it builds the confidence to explain concepts in their own words. It’s so inspiring to see them take charge of their learning! Even better, their presentations allow classmates to pick up on details or perspectives they might have missed. Everyone’s voice is heard in this class, and every student plays an active part in the learning process. 

As they present, I join in to add extra information, clarify key points, or offer additional context, making the discussion lively and interactive. This method not only enhances their communication skills but also reinforces their learning in a way that feels collaborative and fun! 🎓 Watching them grow into mini-experts is truly a rewarding experience for everyone involved! 🔥

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🎒 Although this is a thirteen-week class, we’ll actually have fourteen live meetings. The extra session at the end serves as a wrap-up to address any lingering questions and provide and receive feedback. it also doubles as a pre-scheduled “make-up” meeting if, in a rare occurrence, any previous live meetings had to be canceled.

💁‍♂️ Parents will need to assist their teens in setting up their free Canva accounts and guide them in creating slideshow videos. You will also need to help them learn how to download their slideshow videos, save them as an MP4 file, and attach them to their assignments. These tools are user-friendly once learned, and I’ve included detailed instructions in the "Supply List." 

⌛ This class requires very good time management skills and self-motivation as students will complete the coursework independently and asynchronously from me and from the live meetings. This course is challenging, rigorous, and set up a little like an advanced high school class or college course to help prepare teens for a vocational or college education But don't worry—I'm always available through private messages to answer questions, provide guidance, give support, and offer them coaching. Your teen is never alone, and I respond promptly, even on weekends, 7 days a week on the same day or by the next morning! If a longer conversation is needed I'm available for a private, one-on-one live video meeting up to two times during the semester in the Outschool Classroom for both you and your teen. Just send a message at least 72 hours in advance to schedule.

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🫣 The "Hidden Curriculum" also known as "Adulting" of this class:

In this class, there’s more than just the subject material — I’m thrilled to prepare your teen for the broader world, offering a glimpse into life beyond the classroom. Most of this will take time and practice, and that’s exactly what we’re here to do: learn and practice. Here’s how we’ll achieve that:

⏰ Firstly, we focus on time management and setting schedules to meet deadlines. This skill is crucial not only in high school but also in college, vocational schools, and future careers. Students need to submit their assignments by their due dates every week, with deadlines staggered to give them ample time to plan and organize their work.

📰 Secondly, independent research is a key component. Students will delve into current events related to our weekly topics, honing their ability to find reliable sources and create presentations. They’ll have a current event assignment where they’ll conduct internet research to find unbiased articles or videos, take notes on the "who, what, when, where, why, and how," create a simple two-slide slideshow with relevant photos, and then share their slides and articulate their findings concisely in a presentation.

🗣️ Next, we emphasize clarity and public speaking. Learning to communicate effectively and succinctly is invaluable throughout life. Students will practice giving their "talks" and actively participating in discussions during our live meetings. This mirrors the real-world skills of presenting ideas clearly and engaging in professional discussions, essential for success in any career.

✍️ Efficient note-taking is another skill we’ll develop. Students will take brief notes on chapter introduction videos, the textbook, and any additional research they find interesting or valuable. They’ll focus on topics that gave them new knowledge or that they believe are important to discuss in our live meetings. This skill links to the real-world necessity of capturing and processing key information quickly, a valuable asset in both academic and professional environments.

📽️ In addition, students will learn how to create engaging slideshow videos using Canva. For some assignments, they’ll make a slideshow video that not only answers assignment questions but also showcases their creativity. They will incorporate photos, images, emojis, animations, music, and more to craft visually appealing and informative presentations. This task will help them develop skills in digital content creation, a valuable asset in many modern careers where effective visual communication is essential.  This experience mirrors the real-world skill of creating multimedia content, an important aspect of many professions today.

🌍 Lastly, staying informed about the world around them is encouraged. This habit of curiosity and self-directed learning prepares them for lifelong learning, a cornerstone of personal growth and success. They’ll research and prepare their current events to share, and actively listen to and engage with their classmates’ presentations, fostering a well-rounded perspective on global issues.

👀 Throughout the week, I provide feedback on assignments with additional details, context, information, and real-world examples. It’s important for students to read, assimilate, and acknowledge this feedback to fully benefit from the learning process. This approach ensures they’re not only meeting the requirements but also gaining deeper insights and practical knowledge.

🪞 Together, these lessons form a “hidden curriculum” that mirrors the demands of higher education, careers, and adult responsibilities. It’s not just about getting through this class; it’s about preparing for a successful future.

🧑‍🏫 I’m committed to being kind, compassionate, and flexible. If any adjustments are needed for individual students, I’m more than happy to discuss them. Just send me a private message, and we can ensure that your teen is getting the most out of the class while meeting their unique needs.

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We're not in school; we're OUTschool, and that makes all the difference! This course is designed to somewhat mirror the structure of programs at in-person and online colleges, trade schools, vocational schools, and future careers, offering your teen an incredible head start on their journey into adulting! 🎓 It’s a challenging and rigorous experience, but the rewards are absolutely worth it! While the course is accelerated and somewhat advanced, don't worry — I am always here to provide flexible support for each teen’s unique abilities and needs to the best of my abilities! 🚀

Learning Goals

Critically Examine the Development of LGBTQ+ Movements: Analyze the evolution of LGBTQ+ movements globally, comparing different approaches to activism, such as assimilationist versus liberationist strategies, & their impacts on policy & social attitudes
Explore Intersectionality in Depth: Investigate how intersections of race, gender, class, disability, and religion influence the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, with a focus on marginalized subgroups within the community
learning goal

Syllabus

Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
Standards
Aligned with National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)
13 Lessons
over 13 Weeks
Lesson 1:
WEEK 1: 🌟 Intersectionality & Audre Lorde
 Buckle up for an exhilarating Crash Course in Intersectionality as we navigate the interconnected web of social identities. Join us as we celebrate the fearless Audre Lorde, whose powerful words continue to inspire and ignite change. 🎯 
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
WEEK 2: 🎬 Hollywood & LGBTQ+ Civil Rights
 Step back in time to Hollywood's Golden Age and witness the groundbreaking journey of LGBTQ+ Civil Rights from 1920 to 1938. It's history in the making, and you're at the forefront! 📽️ 
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
WEEK 3: 🏳️‍⚧️ The Gay 80s, 90s, and 00s & Transgender Activists
 Keep the electric vibes going as we journey through the vibrant decades of the 80s, 90s, and 00s, alongside fearless Transgender Activists. Get ready for an adventure through cultural shifts and activism! ⚡ 
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
WEEK 4: 🎨 Art as Activism & Civics and Global History
 Unleash your creativity and immerse yourself in the powerful world of Art as Activism. Explore Civics and Global History, and discover how the world around us shapes and influences artistic expression. 🎭 
30 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Learning Needs
🫴 I support unique learning needs by incorporating various teaching methods, offer flexible assignments, flexible due dates, additional resources, & fostering an inclusive environment. I also communicate regularly with students & parents.
Parental Guidance
👉 High school students enrolled in this class must possess a certain level of maturity, an open mind, and a strong desire to learn. The content of the course includes adult themes, as it draws from a college-level subject, adapted to suit upper high school levels. 👉 Topics covered encompass gender, sexual expression, transgender issues, sexology, LGBTQ+ identities including gays, lesbians, bisexuals, pansexuals, intersex individuals, those questioning their identity, queer individuals, asexuals (ace), and biromantic individuals. Additionally, the curriculum addresses subjects such as gay marriage, drag queens, drag kings, bullying, the justice system, equal rights movements, racial issues, activism, historical riots, safe-sex practices, HIV, and other pertinent matters related to the LGBTQ+ community. The course may include visual materials like images of historical artworks and related content to aid in studying LGBTQ+ history, protests, riots, violence, and other relevant materials. Please note that to the best of my knowledge, this course is not accredited by any educational board, except possibly for homeschool or private/charter school credit. ⚠️ CONTENT WARNING During Week 5, the discussion delves into HIV, AIDS, and the significant deaths in the 1980s, exploring the activism necessary for the LGBTQ+ community to gain access to HIV treatment amidst the inadequate response from the USA Federal Government. This segment serves as a pivotal aspect of LGBTQ+ history as the epidemic initially emerged within this community, unveiling the government's lacking response at the time. The course educates students on protecting themselves from HIV through safe sexual practices, using resources from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation & Avert (refer to the "Sources" section of the class listing for detailed information). If you prefer your student not to participate in Week 5 assignments or live meetings, skipping the week is entirely acceptable, with the option to rejoin in Week 6. Flexibility and understanding are priorities. 👉 This class warmly welcomes all students, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or sexual identity. Mutual respect among students is vital, and any form of hate speech will not be tolerated, as this class aims to provide a safe space for all participants. ⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTES FOR PARENTS: 1. I value your feedback and suggestions. I'm open to making modifications during the course to better meet your teen's needs and abilities. Reach out to me through private direct messaging on Outschool to have a constructive conversation about any comments, concerns, or suggestions you may have. Communication between the teacher and the parent is key! 2. This class requires a minimum of TWO students to proceed. If you know another teen who might be interested, please share this class with them. If we don't have a minimum of two students enrolled 28 hours before the start time, the class will be canceled, and you'll receive a FULL refund plus a letter of what options you will have. I encourage you to sign up for the next available time slot. Thank you for your understanding. 3. Please note Outschool's Limited Refund Policy which this course strictly follows: "Refund within 24 hours of payment until your next meeting or lesson access begins." This means that you will not receive a refund for the class 24 hours after your purchase if you decide to withdraw your teen no matter when the first live meeting of the class begins. If you purchased within 24 hours of the next live meeting you will not be eligible for a refund. Requests to transfer a teen to another start date or time for this class, or to another class, are not available. 4. Outschool's Attendance Policy: If your learner misses a live class meeting, you are not entitled to a refund. If your learner misses 3 consecutive live class meetings without communicating with the teacher, you forfeit the class fee, and the teacher may cancel the class and withdraw your learner. 5. Please be aware that if there are no students after the first 10 minutes of the live online class, that day's class will be canceled. Our live meetings are scheduled for 45 minutes, but the duration may vary based on the number of students and their participation. Your teen's engagement is key! 6. Please note that my classes, just like all other classes from all teachers on Outschool, are not accredited by any government or accreditation agency. Outschool operates as a marketplace where teachers like myself offer online courses. My semester classes are accelerated and advanced, often equivalent to one full high school credit, depending on your state's home education laws, charter school policies, or local school district policies. It is crucial for parents to research and carefully follow their state's guidelines and double-check whether this class will count for credit or a grade if that is an important factor for your teen’s education. Neither I nor Outschool can guarantee the class will fulfill such requirements, and refunds are not available. I do provide unofficial certificates of completion and letter grades upon request, and parents are welcome to use the class description and syllabi for documentation purposes. Thank you for your understanding. 📋 MY CLASS RULES 1. Keep your Zoom name matching your Outschool profile for safety otherwise I am not allowed to let you into the live meeting. 2. Keep your camera on unless approved by Outschool Support. No Zoom backgrounds. 3. Mute your mic unless speaking or asking a question. Raise your hand to be called on. 4. Parents should not appear on camera or speak during class. Please use the Outschool Parent Account for help. 5. I’m available via PM 7 days a week, except within 45 minutes of live meetings. Let me know if something’s up so I can help! It is your responsibility to keep me informed if you need help, feel overwhelmed, feel stressed, have questions, need more support or guidance, have suggestions, any complaints, will be late with an assignment, will be late or absent from a live meeting, and you can easily do this by sending me a private message using the “Teacher” tab. Communication is key and is expected. I am kind, understanding, and flexible for each student’s needs and abilities and am happy to make changes or adjustments to assignments as needed, talk to me about it via a private message. I’ll get back to you the same day or by the next morning! 6. Respect each other and keep debates healthy. Bullying, name-calling, rudeness, derogatory speech, hate speech, or false information are not allowed. You will be taken out of the live meeting and a note will be sent to your parent and possibly Outschool's Trust and Safety team. 7. Use unbiased sources for research and take notes from our materials to help with assignments and live meeting presentations. All assignments are required. You must also go back to completed assignments and look for my feedback under the “Comments” button, read it, and then reply to it even if it’s just an acknowledgment. 8. Be at least 1 minute early to live meetings. If you’re late or think you'll miss a meeting, send me a private message explaining why as quickly as possible. It’s your responsibility to keep me informed. Being present in the live meetings is important for you & for your classmates! 9. Late homework: If you submit an assignment on the day of our live meeting or thereafter you will need to send me a private message under the “Teacher” tab and tell me the lesson number plus the title of the assignment. This helps me to know it is there for my review, give you feedback, and ensure it’s counted. It’s your responsibility to keep me informed otherwise I will not know your late homework is waiting for me. Thanks! 10. 🚫🤖 The use of AI programs like ChatGPT for assignments is strictly PROHIBITED! Use only our class materials, any extra research you do on your own, and please use your own words. 11. Check the “Weekly Announcement” post and comments for updates at least twice per week. Respond to my private messages promptly. It’s your responsibility to keep yourself informed. 12. Use only the free, teacher version of Canva for slideshow video projects, save them as .MP4 files by clicking on “Download” and then click on “More Options” to download your video with watermarks. It’s okay to have Canva watermarks, please don’t worry about that. Be sure to attach your slideshow to your assignment submission as a “file,” not a “video.” Links to projects and projects saved as .DOC, .PDF, or .JPG are strictly prohibited! 13. Review the homework due dates and create a schedule that works for you to tackle all the assigned tasks. Time management is crucial. Stick to your plan as much as possible, but remember to build in flexibility for unexpected events. It's always good to have a backup plan (Plan B) ready just in case. If you find yourself needing extra time during any particular week, don't worry—check out the "Late Assignments" policy mentioned above or refer to class rule #9. Remember, I'm here to support you every step of the way! 14. Whether you're taking this course for a grade, credit, or just for the love of learning, it's important to stay on top of your assignments, my feedback to them, and note-taking. This is how you truly learn, open your mind, expand your heart, and grow! 🌟 Keep engaged and make the most of this experience—you’ve got this! 😊 15. 🫴 Remember, I'm here to support you every step of the way! Enjoy the learning process, be creative, and manage your time wisely. Plan your schedule to meet deadlines while staying flexible. Since we’re not in a traditional school setting, I’m flexible with each learner's needs and can make adjustments as needed all it takes is a private message to me! If you need help or have any concerns, just reach out, and we’ll work through it together! 😁 I’m here 7 days a week and typically respond the same day or by the next morning. It’s your responsibility to keep me informed. I am kind, understanding, and flexible for each student’s needs and abilities and am happy to make changes or adjustments to assignments as needed, talk to me about it via a private message. 💰 REGARDING TUITION: I understand that the tuition structure can sometimes be a bit confusing. Your tuition covers not only the weekly live video meetings but also includes the weekly assignments, projects, and quizzes conducted in our virtual classroom by your student. Additionally, it covers my weekly lesson planning, homework grading, research, active participation in assignments, projects, and quizzes, along with providing valuable feedback, additional content, guidance, and thought-provoking questions for your student's submitted work. I'm also committed to responding to both student and parent private messages within 24 hours, offering private guidance and assistance to students, and facilitating private, one-on-one live video meetings if requested by either students or parents. Rest assured that I'm personally engaged in the classroom, working tirelessly to support your teen's educational journey seven days a week throughout the entire course. In essence, the weekly "1x per week, 13 weeks" displayed below the total tuition on the class listing truly translates to "$20 per week" (which is below market value) in my class. It's important to note that Outschool retains 30% of the total tuition to cover their operational costs. 🚸 FROM OUTSCHOOL... We stand with learners. We are all learners. At Outschool, we commit to standing with all learners by fostering a diverse and multicultural community, where differences are honored, welcomed, and accepted. With education as the catalyst and technology as the tool, we are uniquely positioned to connect learners to experiences that broaden their understanding of themselves and the world around them through our collective love for learning. At Outschool, we strive to be OUTstanding by fostering a global online community, elevating unique voices, and transforming the way we work and learn. At Outschool, we are all learners. We are curious and continuously interrogate the inequities created by systemic oppression on education and learning. We have the opportunity to evolve education by creating a marketplace that reflects and respects the lived experiences of historically ignored communities. This work is never done. To ensure equity across multiple lines of difference and experiences, we maintain a bias toward transformative action. Here’s what action looks like for Outschool. Diversity We intentionally include fair representation of different social identities–including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, social class, physical ability or attributes, and learning needs. Equity We implement processes to ensure inclusion and procedures to eliminate barriers or imbalances that keep community members from having equal opportunities. Inclusion Outschool cultivates an environment where all individuals feel welcomed, supported, and valued. Belonging We create a sense of connection through meaningful experiences by connecting people, ideas, and resources. While our open community is our greatest source of strength, it also brings challenges. It is important to us that Outschool is a safe space for our users. Our members should treat each other without bias or prejudice across all pillars of diversity including, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, religion, and gender identity. Down below are Outschool's Parent and Learner guidelines that we ask our members to observe. Outschool members who do not meet these guidelines will be removed from the site. 🙋‍♂️ PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT: 1. Learners should only attend class under their own enrollment, as themselves. It violates Outschool policy for a learner to use their sibling’s or another learner’s enrollment to attend class. Learners may only join a live meeting by using the green button in their class on their Outschool Learner Account. Educators are forbidden from sending links and passwords to Zoom live meetings. 2. Ask questions of teachers to clarify any missing details about classes, and important information about your learner, and fill out your learner's profile such as age, gender preference, and any notes that the educator may need to know about your learner so they may help your learner throughout the class. 3. Make sure your learner shows up for their class; many classes depend on group conversation, and the absence of a single student can have a big impact. If a learner must miss a live meeting please have them notify their educator via a private message under the Teacher tab in their learner account as soon as possible, or you may notify the educator under the Message tab in your parent account. 4. Provide constructive feedback and reviews about your class experience, for the benefit of the teacher and other parents. The same goes for private messages. 5. Engage in civil conversation, and speak and act with respect for different opinions. Check for private messages from your learner's educators and respond promptly. All communication must take place and stay on Outschool. 6. Help keep Outschool a safe space for learners, families, and teachers from all backgrounds, beliefs, and locations. To that end, we encourage you to watch our Trust and Safety Code of Conduct video with your learner. Learners and parents may not share personal information such as email addresses, mailing addresses, phone numbers, gamer tags, social media, etc. 🎒 LEARNER CODE OF CONDUCT: 1. Join the class on time and be ready to learn. Have all of the tools, textbooks, handouts, notes, or anything else the educator has asked of you ready to go before class starts. 2. Be kind: Help all learners feel welcome and included. Give positive feedback to your fellow classmates. 3. Be safe: Keep your personal information private and never ask other learners for theirs (e.g., email address, mailing address, phone number, gamer tags, etc.). All communication must take place and stay on Outschool. 4. Be respectful: Treat others how you want to be treated. Dress in a manner appropriate for class; please be fully clothed with both a top and bottoms on and sit upright for the class. Treat the teacher and your classmates with respect. 5. Engage & Participate: Contribute to a class environment in a way that is safe and welcoming for learners and teachers from all backgrounds, beliefs, and locations. Take responsibility for making each class a great learning experience for yourself and your classmates: participate, stay on topic, and avoid distractions. Complete teacher assignments on time and to the very best of your ability for your own sake of learning. Check for private messages from your educator and respond back promptly.
Pre-Requisites
⚠️ Students MUST take my Pride & Progress (1 of 2): LGBTQ+ Studies, Culture, & History for Teens course before enrolling in this class. Thank you.
Supply List
💥 Students should prepare the following items before the start of class:

 🚫 A textbook is not needed for this class. All materials will be provided within each assignment.

🎨 1. Canva Accounts: Teens are required to create free Canva accounts to design virtual posters (.jpg) and online slideshows (.mp4), download them to their computers, and then upload them to the classroom as attachments. Parents may need to help their students in setting up Canva accounts and guide them on different ways to create slideshows, presentations, and photo collages. Creating a Canva account is easy using this link: https://www.canva.com/. Parents may also need to assist their learners in creating their Canvas Classroom account.

🎮 2. Kahoot Game: In almost every live meeting, we play a Kahoot game for a fun review. Students should open a separate web browser on their laptop, iPad, or mobile phone, navigate to "kahoot.it," and participate in the quiz together during the live meeting. An account is not needed for Kahoot.

🔔 It is crucial that students familiarize themselves with these materials before the class begins.

🚀 Note: A very important announcement, including information that your teen will need, will be posted the day before our first live meeting in our Outschool classroom. Your teen must read this and complete the items listed in the post to prepare for the first live meeting. This includes downloading the PDF of the textbook, creating their free Canva account, learning how to use Canva, understanding the class rules, and more. Parents will also receive a letter from me on the same day via private message.
 1 file available upon enrollment
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
All sources are independently scholarly peer-reviewed, based on truth and facts, highly researched by the teacher for truthful evidence, and are unbiased.
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Teacher expertise and credentials
Doctoral Degree in Religious Studies from Ashford University
Master's Degree in Education from Ashford University
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Ashford University
Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences from Ashford University
👨‍🏫 My Teaching Expertise:

I have taught LGBTQ Studies, along with African-American Studies, Women's Rights Studies, Cultural Anthropology, and studies of other minority cultures and communities, as electives at the high school level. As a Social Sciences major and a Social Studies educator, I am always heavily involved with issues that affect different populations - especially those who had to work to get equal rights under the law and those who have lawful rights but still aren't treated equally. I feel it is important to educate the next generation in different communities, about their history, culture, struggles, triumphs, and issues that shaped these communities, such as the LGBTQ+ community. I am also a part of the LGBTQ+ community myself as a cisgender gay male using He/Hime/His pronouns and have worked with the Human Rights Council, Florida Equality, and various HIV/AIDS groups such as the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and State Heath Department in educating teens and adults on the subject of the virus and disease.

🍎 My Teaching Approach

My journey as an educator has been shaped by a passion for learning. I've earned several EDU college credits in addition to my undergraduate and graduate degrees in education. Guided by educational theories such as constructivism, humanism, realism, idealism, and brain-based learning, I’ve built a solid foundation in teaching, where I serve as a guide, coach, and mentor to my students.

I embrace a modern teaching approach that is both well-researched and supported by educational studies. This method has proven to be effective in both traditional school settings and virtual classrooms. During my advanced studies in higher education, this approach was a cornerstone of my teaching philosophy.

In my virtual classroom, I use a "flipped classroom" model. This means students engage with the assignments before our live meetings, allowing them to take on the role of “teachers” during class, where they share their knowledge, interests, and insights about the class material and extra research they may have done on their own. Our live meetings follow an "open classroom" style, where students verbally share their knowledge during the live meetings and are encouraged to ask questions, make comments, and participate in collaborative discussions. I actively contribute by providing additional context and information, helping to create a rich, shared learning experience.

This approach focuses on fun and collective learning, where we explore assignments together, analyze them, and come to conclusions as a group. Each session wraps up with an introduction to the upcoming week's topics, ensuring that students stay on track and excited about what’s next.

As educators, we understand that lectures aren't as effective as interactive, engaging discussions. I focus on being a coach and mentor, not just a teacher. My goal is to guide students in a way that fosters their critical thinking and active participation. By asking strategic questions during discussions, I help create meaningful learning moments.

The courses I offer are advanced and accelerated, requiring strong time management and self-motivation to learn. My teaching goes beyond traditional homework and quizzes. I incorporate videos, interactive discussions, and creative slideshow video projects to make learning more engaging. I also teach students "how" to learn by encouraging independent research, helping them develop skills they’ll need as lifelong learners.

When students ask questions, I guide them to research and explore answers on their own, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving. However, if they come back to me I then give them more details. During homework review, I ask follow-up questions and give rich feedback based on their answers to deepen their understanding, encouraging them to think beyond the material.

Through this approach, I help students not only learn but also develop the skills to take control of their education and become more responsible, independent learners—a skill that will serve them well throughout their lives.

I am here to support your teen every step of the way as they navigate this exciting learning journey!

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Live Group Course
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$253

for 13 classes
1x per week, 13 weeks
30 min

Completed by 17 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
1-5 learners per class

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