A Maine public high school recently held a workshop for students featuring a gay drag performer, Dominick Varney, also known as Priscilla Poppycocks. The workshop, titled "Make Them Hear You," took place at Bangor High School on May 4th and focused on Varney's experiences growing up gay in Maine. While the school confirmed Varney did not appear in drag, the event sparked controversy and raised questions about the use of grant funds.

According to documents obtained through the Freedom of Access Act (FOAA), Bangor High School paid Varney $1,000 for the 90-minute workshop. The funds came from a $15,000 grant awarded to the school by the Nellie Mae Education Foundation, an organization dedicated to advancing racial equity in public education. The grant specifically supported the school's "Centering Joy: Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Youth and their Allies" initiative.

FOAA documents reveal the $1,000 payment to Varney. (Shawn McBreairty)

The workshop, which ran from 12:30-2:00 p.m. during the school day, included discussions about Varney's life and career, along with acting techniques and the importance of embracing individuality. Students involved in the school's Q+ LGBT organization and the Civil Rights Team were invited to attend, and the event included catering.

Flier advertising the workshop. (Shawn McBreairty)

The event has drawn criticism from some parents, including Shawn McBreairty, who obtained the FOAA documents. McBreairty expressed concern over the school's focus on such events while Maine students struggle with academic proficiency in core subjects like reading and math. He also questioned the appropriateness of presenting a drag performer as a role model to students.

School officials maintain that no taxpayer money was used for the workshop and that it aligned with the school's diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) initiatives. They emphasized that Varney's presentation centered on his theatrical career and provided students with inspiration and professional development advice.

Dominick Varney in drag as Priscilla Poppycock. (Instagram)

The Nellie Mae Education Foundation stated that it trusts its grantees to select appropriate speakers and vendors. Neither Varney nor the teacher who organized the event, Emilie Brand Throckmorton, have responded to requests for comment.