Sarah Bell Homosexuality Pages

Gaylord v. Tacoma School District No. 10 Teacher discharged due to status as publicly known homosexual 12 years experience, Phi Beta Kappa, masters degree (credentials) Court upheld school decision –“Immoral” just as in biblical times –Required school board approval of homosexuality

Connick v. Myers Bisexual guidance counselor –Told selective colleagues about female lover Court upheld First Amendments rights not violated –Teacher speaking in personal interest and no evidence of public concern among personnel

Oklahoma 10 th circuit- Court of Appeals Good- homosexual activities Unconstitutional- advocacy of activity –“advocating, soliciting, imposing, encouraging or promoting public or private homosexual activity in a manner that creates a substantial risk that such conduct will come to the attention of school children or school employees” –Pure speech-court

Downs v. Los Angeles Unified School District Educating for Diversity program –Teacher wanted to reduce fears related to difference and acts of violence motivated by hate and bigotry –Teacher wanted to use bulletin boards to convey positive messages about homosexuality (pg. 243) Court- bulletin boards can be policed (no free speech zones)

Schroeder v. Hamilton School District School did not protect him when being harassed by students, parents, and district employees for homosexuality –School disciplined students when aware of act-however, most anonymous so went unpunished –Parents and teachers made terrible accusations (he was a pedofile) –District took some action- passed out memorandum Court- homosexuals not entitled to any extra constitutional protection- did not implement any separate policy

Glover v. Williamsburg School District Board of Education Non-renewal based on discrimination –Rumored to hold hands with partner at holiday party Court- criticized defendants for taking rumor as fact and lowering opinions- fact not credible –Glover received two years salary and money based on anguish

Weaver v. Nebo School District School restrict lesbians right to express sexual orientation outside of school –Did not hire back as volleyball coach Court- rehired as coach and letters requesting no speaking about sexuality be removed from file

Epilogue Gay rights still controversial –Ex: Boy scouts, “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” School boards- adopted antidiscrimination policies