How Rhode Island Schools Support Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students
In 2016, Rhode Island created rules to help schools support transgender and gender nonconforming students. These rules are designed to make sure all students feel safe, respected, and included.
The guidance says that schools must protect students from bullying and treat everyone fairly. A key part of the rules is privacy; schools cannot share a student’s gender identity without their permission.
Students should be called by the name and pronouns they choose, even if they haven’t made legal changes. They should also be allowed to use restrooms, locker rooms, and join activities that match their gender identity. Schools can offer private options for anyone who wants them, but they can’t force transgender students to use separate spaces.
Every student should feel safe and respected at school, no matter who they are. I support kindness, inclusion, and stopping bullying.
But I have some concerns about the policy that allows transgender students to use any bathroom or locker room based on their gender identity. Some students may feel uncomfortable or need more privacy. I think schools should offer private options for anyone who wants them, so everyone can feel safe.
I also think it’s important to keep school sports fair. If students who were born male compete on girls' teams, it might give them a physical advantage. That doesn’t seem fair to everyone competing.
I’m not saying anyone should be left out, I just think schools should find ways to include everyone while still being fair and respectful to all students.
We can disagree and still listen to each other with kindness and respect
Dress codes must be fair, and students should be allowed to dress according to their gender identity. Teachers and staff must be trained on these rules and how to support all students with respect. Schools also need to teach students about kindness, fairness, and inclusion.
After reading the Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Young People,
I was reminded of how important it is to create a classroom where every student feels safe,
respected, and affirmed. Using students’ correct names and pronouns is a simple
but powerful way to show we value who they are. The guide also emphasized that allyship
means more than kindness; it means speaking up against bias, creating inclusive learning
environments, and listening without judgment. As educators, we have the responsibility
not only to support our students individually but also to examine our teaching practices,
curriculum, and classroom culture. This guide gave me practical tools and helped me
reflect on how I can better support all students by being intentional, respectful, and active
in my allyship.
Michele I loved your response as it not only highlighted the importance of gender affirming awareness in schools, but also some of concerns that people may have. As we gain more awareness, we would need to exercise more education, grace, and understanding to help accomplish harmony amongst all. I do agree having the option of a gender-neutral/private bathroom is a great start to helping all students feel comfortable and seen as we aim to transition to a society that can embrace of all people.
ReplyDeleteI know it will be interesting for you to explore more research on the sports and bathroom questions you raise here. Nothing is simple! And it all requires a lot of open minds and hearts from all parties. Great points.
ReplyDeleteMichele, I have also wondered about sports. It seems like if we are moving past gender binaries, it just doesn't make sense to stick to them in sports. No idea what that looks like, but something I have also wondered about.
ReplyDelete