“Delusional Thinking Does Not Belong in School”: Nonbinary Teacher’s Identity Sparks Legal Showdown

Gabriel RomanNov 28, 2023

Minute Read

The world of education is often a reflection of wider societal changes and challenges. In Florida, a recent incident involving a teacher, AV Vary, has sparked discussions about identity, legal boundaries, and educational ethics. They are a nonbinary educator in the Florida Virtual School, set against the backdrop of state laws and societal norms.

AV Vary’s Mission

AV Vary’s commitment to teaching was driven by a desire to support and guide young people during a critical phase of their lives. Spanning 15 years across Maryland and Orlando, Vary has demonstrated a profound dedication to the educational field. Their journey is an example of the impact a passionate educator can have on young minds.

Florida Virtual School

Joining the Florida Virtual School (FLVS) represented a significant step in Vary’s career, allowing them to connect with a broader spectrum of students from all grades. FLVS offered a unique opportunity for Vary to utilize their extensive experience in an innovative, online teaching environment. They reached a diverse range of students across Florida.

A Dispute Over Titles

The pivotal moment in Vary’s career at FLVS came when they were dismissed on October 24. This was due to a dispute over the use of the gender-neutral title “Mx.” This title, chosen instead of traditional titles like “Ms.,” “Mrs.,” or “Miss,” became the center of a significant professional conflict for Vary.

Identity and Inclusivity

Vary identifies as nonbinary and uses the pronouns they/them. So, the title “Mx.” was a crucial aspect of their identity. This choice was more than a preference. It was a fundamental expression of who they are. Vary, valuing their privacy, has firmly chosen to be recognized by this name.

FLVS’s Response

In reaction to the dispute, FLVS released a statement underscoring its duty to follow Florida’s laws and regulations. This included guidelines related to the use of personal titles and pronouns in public education. This policy directly impacted Vary’s situation and caused them to be fired from their school.

Legal Landscape

The tension between Vary’s personal identity and FLVS’s policy is underscored by the legal context in Florida. State statutes, particularly section 1000.071(3), played a pivotal role in this conflict. These recent developments show the complexities of law and personal identity in the educational sector.

A Wider Cause

Vary’s challenge to their termination was more than a personal battle. They expressed a broader ambition to promote respect and compassion nationwide, saying, “Yeah, this is a fight for my rights. But this is also a fight for the kindness, compassion, and respect for every individual in the country.”

Legal Documentation

Official documents reveal FLVS’s insistence on Vary conforming to traditional courtesy titles. This stance aligns with Florida Statute 1000.071. This law stresses the importance of biological sex in the context of public K-12 institutions and does not allow educators to be called by their preferred pronouns.

“Don’t Say Gay” Law

The events involving Vary are deeply intertwined with broader legislative developments. This includes the controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law and the legal challenges it has caused for many LGBTQ+ individuals living in Florida currently. This context adds layers to the complexity of Vary’s situation.

Alternative Titles

Vary offered several gender-neutral alternatives for their title. These included the terms “professor” and “coach,” but these suggestions were not accepted by FLVS. This refusal reflects the intricate dynamics between individual identity and institutional policy. The FLVS claims they were simply following state guidelines.

Student Relationships: Vary’s Evolution

Vary’s journey towards embracing a nonbinary identity influenced how students perceived them. Transitioning from being known as Mrs. Vary to Mx. Vary, they navigated the evolving landscape of personal identity. This impacted their relationships with students and their role as an educator.

A Symbol of Allyship

In a climate of anti-LGBTQ legislation in Florida, Vary’s adoption of “Mx.” was more than a personal choice. It signaled to students that they were an ally and a provider of a safe, inclusive space, particularly for minority communities. However, others criticized Vary for “forcing an ideology” on students.

First Job Loss

Vary’s termination from FLVS, their first job loss experience, raised broader concerns beyond their personal circumstances. It had implications for their colleagues, potentially increasing their workload and highlighting the issue of teacher overwork. Many people have reacted to this news in shock and anger.

The Teacher Shortage Crisis

This incident happened against the backdrop of a national shortage of teachers, notably in science. Vary’s departure from FLVS added to this challenge, particularly with science classes already facing high demand and waitlists. Some argue that firing Vary will have greater educational consequences.

A Tense Departure

Vary’s final interactions with FLVS leadership were strained. These demonstrate the difficulties institutions face in navigating the delicate balance between adhering to state laws and upholding constitutional rights. This tension underscores the complex nature of such situations in the educational field.

Seeking Legal Recourse

Vary’s decision to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is pivotal in challenging their termination. Their search for legal representation was met with mixed reactions. However, it marks a significant move in the fight for personal rights in the workplace for all.

Building a Community for Justice

Understanding the power of unity, Vary is keen on collaborating with others who have encountered similar challenges. “It would be unrealistic to expect any individual to cover this on their own,” Vary stated. They stressed the strength found in collective action. This approach not only seeks justice for their case but also aims to uplift others facing similar battles for civil rights.

Public Reactions

The public’s response to Vary’s situation reveals a spectrum of opinions. Some comments echo traditional views, like “Employers often have rules that are perfectly legal, and when violated, are enforced through termination.” Others express frustration with the perceived rigidity of the system, arguing for more inclusive practices in education.

Controversial Views

The debate intensifies with statements such as “Redefining it does not change it. A rose by any other name is still a rose” and “People believing otherwise are delusional. Delusional thinking does not belong in school.” These comments underscore the deep divisions in opinions on issues of identity and education. Another perspective suggests, “They’re there to teach, not to spread ideologies.”

Future Challenges

As we follow the ongoing narrative of AV Vary, it challenges us to consider the complex interplay of personal identity, legal frameworks, and the educational environment. This story echoes beyond Florida. It invites a broader dialogue about the principles of respect, inclusivity, and the transformative power of education in society.