Workshops for Teachers & Support Staff

“D. M. Maynard has done it again! Her new workbook is designed to guide and teach educators about TGNB students and provides insight into the complexity of a TGNB student’s world. As always Maynard’s knowledge and passion are evident on every page. Every child deserves to be educated in a safe and caring environment and this workbook helps make that a reality for TGNB students.” 

Michael P. Nagler, Ed.D., Superintendent of Mineola Public Schools, 2020 NYS Superintendent of the Year, and 2020 National Superintendent Finalist 

“Kudos to D. M. Maynard for writing this innovative and timely workbook to assist teachers, support staff, and administrators in creating schools where all transgender nonbinary (TGNB) students and/or those who are questioning their gender feel safe, included, and respected every day. As a pediatrician, adolescent medicine sub specialist, and medical director for seven school-based health centers serving 23 public schools in NYC, I am keenly aware of what a marvelous and much needed resource this is for educators striving to provide the support every student needs so they can reach their educational potential and make a difference in every child’s life. Take the time to read and work through the workbook’s exercises ...and watch yourself grow!” 

Melanie A. Gold, DO, DMQ (she/her/hers), Professor of Pediatrics and Population & Family Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Medical Director of School-Based Health Centers, New York-Presbyterian Hospital 

“If you are that conscientious teacher who sees it as part of their mission and practice to fully grasp and understand what is happening to students in transition, D. M. Maynard’s workbook focusing on trans and non-binary students will take you on a deeply self-reflective journey that embraces the true calling of a teacher. During a time where the paths of gender identity and schools are crossing, this book is designed to help teachers, staff, and schools understand the school experience through the lens of TGNB students, and the crucial role teachers have in providing a safe and positive social and emotional environment that all children deserve.” 

Lorenzo Licopoli, Ph.D., Interim Superintendent of Schools of Arlington Central School District, Retired Superintendent of Schools, Board Trustee for Northport USFD, and Educational Consultant 

“Should you want to get it right, you need to read this book! The material in this workbook can be life-saving for TGNB youth. Misinformation or lack of information can cause a well-intended educator to cause trauma and long-term harm during a child’s transformative years. It is quite evident that D. M. Maynard has worked countless hours to make sure this book is thorough and yet simple enough for anyone to understand and actually enjoy using it.”   

Emma Luz Stovall, BSW, proud parent of a transgender teen, parent advocate for the Ackerman Institute’s Gender and Family Project, served in the ARMY Reserves, and is a Law Enforcement Officer with the NYC Department of Probation 

“This reflective workbook gently invites educators, who may be stepping into uncharted or uncomfortable territory, to do the work it takes to understand and support students who are transgender and non-binary. D. M. Maynard’s experience, compassion, and expertise guide and inspire the reader to take action. This essential resource is an important component in ensuring ALL students are seen, respected, and valued.” 

Gary Wellbrock, Ph.D., First Grade Teacher at The American Sign Language and English Lower School in NYC, Adjunct Professor at Fordham University, and Founder ofBroadway Books First Class 

“Maynard’s incredible workbook offers insight that shines a light of clarity into the needs of TGNB students for school personnel in a way that is approachable and relatable. As someone who has spent over 30 years in the educational field, I am inspired by D. M.’s clear approach to some very complex understandings—an amazing resource for everyone!” 

Dan Phillips, MS, CCC-SLP, Educational Technology Specialist, Founder/Creator and Current Director of the Technology Resource Center of Marin, and CEO/Founder of the Nika Project 

“D. M. Maynard’s workbook is exactly the resource which has been missing that teaches educators practical methods on how to support the transgender and non-binary student population. This book enables us to understand and assist our TGNB students during their transition. The author truly captures ways all school personnel can help TGNB students navigate school life while in transition. Definitely a must read for educators!” 

Ashley Barros, MS, TESOL Certified, Fifth Grade Special Education Teacher for DOE, Brooklyn, NY

“Finally, there is a tool which sheds light on appropriate ways teachers, support staff, and administrators can advocate for TGNB students in school. D. M. Maynard has crafted a book that addresses the many questions educators need answered to support the gender transition of their students. No school professional’s library is complete without this esteemed workbook!” 

Ida D. Ayres, SAS/SDA, Retired Principal, Co-Author of The Elementary School Principal’s Calendar: A Month-by-Month Planner for the School Year, Former: Director of Placement at Molloy College and Adjunct Professor, St. John’s University 

 “As a teacher I highly recommend that all educators purchase this workbook for it addresses the needs of students who are transitioning and how a school environment should be to ensure that the modern classroom is a safe place for all students. D. M. Maynard creates a well-informed, well-researched workbook with exercises that require self-reflection for all educators and staff. This book should be the focus of professional development all around the country in these times of much change within society and education.”  

Robert DiBella, M.Ed., HS Social Studies Teacher for New York City Public Schools, Bronx, NY and Author/Screenwriter 

“The reflective nature of this vital and necessary resource will increase school personnel’s understanding of TGNB students’ experiences and needs as they transition. It presents educators with the opportunity to think deeply about their own beliefs and feelings, and how these views affect their support of students. D. M. Maynard’s workbook provides teachers, support staff, and administrators with specific strategies that will have a positive impact on staff and students. Every administrator should buy a copy of the book for each of their school buildings!” 

Sheryl Goffman, M.Ed., Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Rye City School District, NY, Former: Deputy Superintendent, Director of Elementary Education, Elementary Principal, Special Education Teacher, Educational Consultant, and Adjunct Professor 

“This timely and relevant workbook provides a comprehensive framework for all educators and support staff who want to empower themselves with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to support transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming students. This detailed workbook allows the reader to move at their own pace, work alone or with a team, and take a deep dive into the unique needs of TGNB and/or gender questioning students. A must have resource for educators who want to create an affirming school environment for all students.” 

Kimberly Hession, LCSWR, HS School Social Worker on Long Island, NY, Co-Owner of Great South Bay Therapy, and Co-Founder of Coastal Practice Consultants, LLC