I'm interested in reading the Winston-Salem Journal article. I'd like to read the book, too before I comment too fully on this topic.
However, I agree with Deborah, Jill and Brian. Homosexuality IS part of our civilization, has been and will be. To shed an educated light upon this aspect of our culture IS better in my mind than hiding information because of our own personal judgements. Our judgements live in hatred and fear and our children know those fears, biases and prejudices whether we are open about them or not. If we can ask ourselves WHAT is it? What particular elements about a topic bother us the most - then we can examine the truth of our own fears, prejudices. I do not accept someone just telling me Biblical lessons tell us something is a sin without showing me what one means. Jesus taught non-judgement, in my understanding. No one has mentioned the Bible so it isn't my intent to plant a seed of controversy. I just mention it because it is the frail argument I hear that is never followed up by documentation.
I have a family member that is gay. This person has been with one partner for over 12 years. The last partnered relationship lasted 12 years. Monogamy matters and I have always thought of these partners as my in-laws. This issue is one that I will stand up for with all my heart. Because I love my sibling with all my heart. I'm biased to be sure...
I headed this msg with "depends on the culture" because if I taught in a fundamentalist-type environment (which I can only imagine doing if - well, I can actually hardly imagine what circumstances would create that situation - except I have also had some very conservative, religious, fundamental friends - so, I do not want to pre-judge on my own future ---?) I would do my best to present appropriate information to an appropriate audience, doing my best to keep in mind or to communicate openly with parents before I presented what I imagine could be controversial information. Enough on this - for now.
my words runneth over again...