This topic came up on another thread. To avoid derailing that OPs conversation I thought it worth a separate thread to consider the potential impact of our words on impressionable and vulnerable HS students.
Specifically, I believe it is potentially harmful to suggest trans kids “choose” their gender identity in spite of it being contrary to the overwhelming consensus within the transgender and medical communities. I think it can be particularly destructive when a person has faced backlash or discrimination to imply they contributed to the situation by virtue of their “choice”.
More broadly I think in spite of our desire to be direct and candid we need to remember our audience and use our words carefully.
While a bit of rant I am anxious to hear the thoughts of others.