Hello My Name Is... Changing

When a student begins using a new name that better aligns with their gender identity or expression, it can be profoundly meaningful to see the name reflected everywhere around them. Others may not be ready for their new name to be everywhere just yet. Additionally, a school might have multiple systems for tracking and sharing names. With all these factors to consider, a checklist can ensure nothing is missed.

Planning

• Make a list of every place that a student’s name is recorded, from provincial to classroom systems. Make note of who will see what, including parents, teachers, other students, and administrative staff.

• Determine who needs to be involved in the process – from discussing the change with other students, to approval and implementation.

Set up

• Create a grid that asks the student where they want their name change documented. Be clear about who will see what, so they are fully informed before consenting to any changes.

• Train those may use the tool such as counsellors, administrators, or IT staff.

Implementation

• Make sure that this process, like all student transition processes, is student-led.

• After the tool is used by a few students, review and look for ways that students could be better supported or gaps that need to be addressed.

Here is an example from a BC school district. The student tracking systems and roles and responsibilities might be different, but it can be adapted for your specific context.

And yes – name changes are so important we made two posts about them! See this post for examples in action of common name change challenges (and possible solutions).