The Board of Education believes that all students are entitled to a quality education in a safe environment.  This belief extends to the growing number of 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 transgender student must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Student Identity

Transgender students are permitted to 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.

Official school records shall continue to 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.  In such case, the District will amend its official school records to comply with the court order.

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.

If a parent/guardian requests an alternative option, the option will be considered on a case-by-case basis.  However, if agreement cannot be reached, the District will select the option that is in the best interest of all students.

Locker Rooms/Showering Facilities

Elementary students are not required to change into PE uniforms and, hence, do not require showering.

In District secondary schools, students who elect to participate in physical education classes that require access to locker rooms or showering facilities will be expected to use those facilities designated for their biological gender.  However, upon request of a transgender student and/or their parents, alternatives will be considered.  In consultation with the student and parents, the alternative will include, but not be limited to, on-line PE courses, independent study; scheduling adjustments to include early access to change and showering facilities; separate enclosed change and shower room within the locker room.  Each such request would be considered on a case-by- case basis.  However, if consensus cannot be reached with the student/parents, the District will select an option that is in the best interest of all students.

Apparel

Transgender students are permitted to dress in the same manner as the gender with which they identify.  However, all students are required to dress consistently with the school’s dress code.

Extra-Curricular/School Activities

Similarly, all students are permitted to wear apparel associated with their gender or gender identity.    On occasion, student activity groups schedule overnight trips.  Students will be assigned rooms, with sponsor approval, mutually agreed upon by student roommates.  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.