Quote:One of the nation’s largest gay-activist groups is spearheading a week-long event designed to promote its agenda in schools across the country.

Ally Week, sponsored by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), runs through Oct. 25. According to the group’s website, it’s where, “we can have vital conversations to move the movement toward our collective queer liberation.”

Candi Cushman, education analyst for Focus on the Family, said parents need to be aware of some of the more radical themes that could be promoted to students.

For example, in student guides, GLSEN encourages kids to use gender-neutral pronouns such as “Zie/hir/hirs (pronounced ‘zee/heer/heers’).” Educators are encouraged to use films such as “No Dumb Questions” — a documentary about three girls trying to understand how their Uncle Bill is becoming a woman — and “Straightlaced,” about teens who self-identify as gay, bisexual or questioning.

“It can be difficult for parents to stay on top of what’s happening in the schools when there are multiple events like this being promoted by outside groups,” Cushman explained. “To help parents understand what their rights are, we have a free Empowering Parents how-to guide. It provides a checklist of what to look for and tips on how to talk to school officials about concerns.”