Former McAuley Teacher Asks For More Acceptance of LGBT Students

Erin Macke is a 2001 graduate of Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School who so valued her time at the school that she decided to return as a teacher in 2009. Two years later her contract was not renewed.

In a letter posted to the Huffington Post, she writes that she was not asked to return after the school learned that she was a lesbian and for the way in which "she had counseled an LGBT student who expressed suicidal actions."

In the open letter, Macke reflects on the positive educational experience she received at the school. She also expresses disappointment that her personal life leaves her on the outside of the institution she credits as a major force in her life. Macke writes:  

I left these halls with a strong sense of self, unwavering confidence, a conviction to charity, and the belief that I was accepted and valued in this community. I felt securely rooted in the teachings and values fostered within these walls. If one were to ask, I would concede that this institution has uniquely shaped the woman I am today. The riotous irony that I am now not a good fit for the establishment that I credit, in part, for my spiritual and intellectual development beckons the question, what is this really about? Because I've been explicitly told this is not a reflection of my teaching, the only logical conclusion is that it reflects your attitude towards my personal life.

Macke makes a call to action. She urges Mother McAuley to embrace a more open approach to LGBTQ students. The letter explains that she sees the school's reluctance as stemming from a belief that such actions would go against Catholic teachings and create a reputation as a "lesbian school." Macke suggests a more proactive approach:

Ignorance and blind denial will not solve this problem. Sincere and sensitive consideration needs to be given to the issue at hand: there is not a single resource for students struggling with the ideas of sexual identity. Furthermore, empathetic and proactive adults are left as offerings on the altar of litigation and politics. What example are we setting for students when such atrocities are condoned? 

You can read the full letter on the Huffington Post.  

Mary Acker Klingenberger, the school's president, provided a written statement in response to Macke's column: 

Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students, faculty and staff. As part of that pledge, our school’s policy is to treat as private, personal and professional matters, regarding all employees. Bound by law, we keep confidential academic and personal information regarding our students. 

McAuley faculty and staff are required to sign and follow a written covenant that protects the confidentiality of students as well as school employees. Our faculty and staff are directed to follow designated procedures when a student expresses an intention to harm herself or feels threatened by another. 

At Mother McAuley High School we take seriously any violation of the dignity of an individual. We recognize that young women today face many issues and challenges so our school provides programs to support the social and emotional life of students. Mother McAuley’s leadership is committed to cultivating an environment which protects the safety and dignity of every individual.

What approach should high schools, both Catholic and public, take in handling the needs of LGBTQ students? How did your high school support gay or lesbian students? Tell us in the comments.