Mr. Delgado's Homosexual Student Is Being Abused. What should Mr. Delgado Do?

Mr. Delgado has an obligation as a teacher to protect the reputation of John. As a homosexual, John’s deviation from a heterosexual social norm puts him in a precarious position because he is insure of how his peers will react. John is susceptible to low self-esteem, shame, and self hatred - possibly to the extreme breaking point of suicide - as a result of verbal abuse by peers.

Mr. Delgado should resolve not to respond to the jokes made about John unless they are told in John’s presence, and then Mr. Delgado should express his disapproval of the jokes immediately upon their being told. He should model tolerance of individuals and their individual characteristics by ignoring jokes that are intolerant, and showing disdain for abuse towards John when he is present.

When the behavior becomes abusive, Mr. Delgado has the increased responsibility to bring the case to the administration’s attention. Using his own adult discretion, he should decide whether or not the abusers are learning the correct tolerance of their peers. If not, the administration can assure the abuser’s actions will be more consequential. When the students show they are unable to make prudent decisions after learning the right information, the administration can make it for them.

The focus, therefore, is on the abusers, not the victim. John has a right to learn in the least restrictive environment, the same as all other students do, and it is the duty of the teacher on the front line and the administration to assure he is provided that environment.