Providence School Board approves policy to support transgender students
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Providence School Board on Monday passed a policy to support transgender and gender-expansive students throughout the district.
The policy builds upon Mayor Jorge O. Elorza’s priorities for a school district that is welcoming, accessible and free of discrimination. It provides guidelines for restroom usage, physical education and intramural sports teams and creates a Transgender and Gender Expansive Student Point Team to provide additional resources and support.
“Providence is removing barriers and making a difference for our transgender and gender expansive students,” Elorza said. “This policy strengthens the commitments made in Providence, in the state and by President Obama to make our schools more inclusive and welcoming to all students. It is the right thing to do, and I am proud that Providence is helping lead the way.”
Providence School Board member Robert Gondola, who sponsored the board initiative, said, “All of our students deserve inclusive learning communities, and this policy further underscores this commitment. Our board, schools and city worked together quickly, even ahead of the federal announcement. Now, more than ever, our gender-expansive policy expands our pride in Providence.”
Under the new policy, transgender and gender-expansive students are able to select the restroom they use, including opting for private restrooms and separate changing areas.
Gender identity and gender expression may also be considered when selecting the physical education and intramural sports programs in which students participate. Students involved in interscholastic sports follow Rhode Island Interscholastic League rules.
In each school, a Transgender and Gender Expansive Student Point Team — made up of specially trained teachers, administrators, parent advocates, social workers, counselors, and health and physical education staff — will be established to provide individual support plans for students and their families.
Providence Public Schools Supt. Christopher N. Maher added, “Professional development for our staff is a critical component of the transgender student policy. We want to make sure that Providence Public School employees understand how best to respect and support all our students.”
School Board President Nicholas Hemond praised Gondola for making the Policy for Transgender and Gender Expansive Students a priority, saying, “The board felt it was important to recognize and honor the choices and the voices of our young people on this issue.”
lborg@providencejournal.com
(401)277-78723
