To the editor:

Michael Thom has written many recent letters concerning the support given to LGBTQ students in public schools. A basic flaw in his most recent letter, which seems to be the basis of his concern, requires a response.

Michael is under the impression schools are presenting and teaching, or in his words, “misleading and confusing” young people with gender options. That is blatantly false. Schools are simply meeting kids where they are and supporting them — even if they don’t fall into the traditional societal definitions of gender. In the past students would have been categorized and forced into a strict gender identity whether it applied to them or not. Now the practice is to meet and accept them as they are. Less emphasis is being placed on gender than before, not more. The big change feared by the Michaels in society is simply the acceptance and support now offered. That’s it. So in answer to Michaell’s question of who I want teaching my children, I want a supportive educational setting with staff who accept and love my children and don’t force their personal, misguided concepts on them.

Wendi Ringhofer

New Ulm