The Board of Education believes that all students are entitled to a quality education in a safe environment.  This belief extends to transgender students, that is, students who self-identify with a gender that is different from their biological sex.

The Board seeks to balance the privacy needs of all students with the preferences of transgender students and their parents/guardians.  This policy sets forth the practices that are in place for the welfare of all of our students.  This policy does not anticipate every situation that might occur with respect to transgender students, and the needs of each student must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Student Identity

Transgender students may select a first name and pronoun that more closely matches their gender identity.  This chosen name shall be used by District staff to communicate verbally and electronically other than in official school records.  Changes of name shall not be permitted to exceed one name change per school year. Gender markers on unofficial District forms and related documents will reflect the student’s gender identity.

Official school records will list the birth name and biological sex of the student.  The student or their parents/guardians may obtain a name change through the court system.

Restrooms

The District, when requested, will designate a gender-neutral restroom(s) in each building with the appropriate signage.

All students, regardless of their gender identity, will have the option of using the gender-neutral restroom or the restroom designated for their biological sex.

Apparel

Transgender students are permitted to dress in the manner of their gender identity.  However, all students are required to dress consistently with the school’s dress code.

Extra-Curricular/School Activities

The District is a member of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA).  As such, the District is required to adhere to MSHSAA regulations regarding athletic participation by transgender students.  MSHSAA requirements are as follows:

No Medical/Hormone Treatment Related to Gender Transition

1. Trans males (female to male) may participate in co-ed sports and may apply to participate in boys’ sports. Once the student participates in a boys’ sport, he may only compete in boys’ sports for the remainder of his eligibility.

2. Trans females (male to female) may not compete on a girls’ team, but may compete in co-ed and boys’ sports.

Receiving Medical/Hormone Treatment Related to Gender Transition

1. Trans males (female to male) may compete on a boys’ team but is no longer eligible to compete on a girls’ team. 

2. Trans females (male to female) may continue to compete on a boys’ team, but may not compete on a girls’ team until one year of documented medical hormone treatment and/or suppression is completed. To maintain eligibility, a trans female student will thereafter provide medical documentation that the appropriate hormones are being maintained.

On occasion, student activity groups schedule overnight trips.  Students will be assigned rooms with sponsor approval and which are mutually agreed upon by the student roommates.