Giving Compass' Take:

• Owen Bondono is Michigan’s newest Teacher of the Year and is also the first known transgender person to hold that title in the state. 

• How can donors support transgender educators? Why is it important to amplify these voices in the education space?

• Learn about these resources that support LGBTQ students. 

The first time Owen Bondono understood homophobia, he was 9 years old and two male classmates were hurling the word “lesbian” at each other as if it were an insult.

Bondono, who grew up in Shelby Township, is Michigan’s newest Teacher of the Year. He is also the first known transgender person to hold that title in the state - a spokesman for the Michigan Department of Education said he isn’t aware of any previous state teachers of the year who have identified as trans. And Bondono is learning from others that he may be the first in the nation.

The recognition is deeply significant for him. He understands the challenges marginalized students face. And he wants to serve as a reminder to trans students that they can achieve anything.

On Friday, he had a conversation with a former teacher of the year from another state who is gay.

“He told me that my existence is going to save lives right now. What bigger legacy could I ask for than that?

Read the full article about transgender teachers by Lori Higgins at Chalkbeat Detroit.