‘Because we are all just human”… Middle school Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) creates special book cart in the library

Students and teacher with book cartLessons about the importance of acceptance, inclusion, respect and diversity are part of Minisink Valley’s ongoing character education initiatives. Students also frequently reinforce these themes in their respective school buildings in a variety of ways.

A recent example is a book cart decorated by the middle school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA), a teacher-run club which not only provides support, but seeks to build bridges and stop discrimination and bullying.  Advisers are James Fox and Eden Held.

“The book cart features books which contain LGBTQ+ characters and themes of acceptance,” said librarian Maggie Spicehandler. “This project was a collaboration between the library and the GSA.  I provided the club with the cart and also gave them the books.  The students were completely responsible for the decorations.  All books on display can be checked out.  The students who participated in this project are extremely proud of what they created.”

The library is keeping the cart on display for the foreseeable future.