Issue
The National Teacher and Principal Survey (NTPS) is an in-depth, nationally representative survey of Grade 1-12 public and private school teachers, principals, and schools. The NTPS provides an opportunity for the characteristics and experiences of school staff to inform analyses about the education sector. Currently, the NTPS does not collect data on the sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) of teachers and principals.
Impact
LGBT teachers and principals experience unique barriers in the workplace due to sexual orientation and gender identity. A 2021 study by the Williams Institute found high rates of employment discrimination against state and local government workers, including teachers. The study also found that around half of LGBT people who have worked in the education sector are not out to their current supervisor. Prior studies have documented similar experiences in the education sector. Including SOGI measures in the NTPS could help researchers, administrators, and policymakers understand the unique workplace experiences of LGBT teachers and principals.
Summary
Scholars present extensive research that details the persistent stigma and discrimination faced by LGBT people, including educators. They also discuss the rise in state anti-LGBT legislation and its impact on teachers and school administrators. In addition, scholars offer legal and social science research to justify the addition of SOGI measures and provide technical guidance on methodological questions related to SOGI data collection in accordance with the recent consensus report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.