On Friday, the Obama administration issued guidance on how public schools should allow transgender students to use bathrooms that match their gender identity.
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“When a school provides sex-segregated activities and facilities, transgender students must be allowed to participate in such activities and access such facilities consistent with their gender identity”, reads the guidance document.
The Robertson County School system received a, “Dear Colleague”, letter from the U.S. Department of Education/Department of Justice regarding transgender restroom facilities.
Brenda Cassellius, state education commissioner, said students deserve “safe and supportive” schools where they can “thrive and succeed”.
“Canyon ISD is aware of the announcement from the U.S. Department of Education and Canyon ISD has not considered any changes in the way we now work with students based on gender”.
If schools don’t comply, they risk the loss of federal aid.
The district calls it a proper process, and a student can not just simply say they identify with the opposite sex and use the other bathroom.
Attorney General Loretta Lynch said it would protect transgender pupils from discrimination and peer harassment.
Earlier this week, the Justice Department and the state of North Carolina filed dueling lawsuits over the state’s controversial “bathroom” law, with the Obama administration answering an early-morning lawsuit filed by Republican Gov. Pat McCrory with legal action of its own.
“There’s nothing really earth-shattering about this for us”, said Rick Robinett, San Luis Coastal Unified School District assistant superintendent.
The Obama administration’s new public school guidance is not federal law, but carries significant weight given the federal dollars attached to schools’ compliance.
Ohio Department of Education officials say they are reviewing the federal guidance.
“I think it helps”, said Durso, “I don’t think it’s necessarily going to be a cure-all”, suggesting it may encourage opponents of the directive to dig in their heels.
“I don’t think he should do it”, said the woman.
“We stand with, support, and welcome all members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community”, the joint resolution released April 26 said.
In Texas, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick spoke out and said Obama’s plan will divide the country and said Texas will not yield.
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In Sarasota County, following debates and protests, the district said one school could allow students to use the bathroom of the gender they identify as.
