LGBTQ Advisory Guide
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LGBTQ Advisory Guide
Lawrence Public Schools believes everyone deserves to attend school in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment that allows them to thrive and grow. In order to comply with existing USD 497 anti-discrimination policy protecting the rights of transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming students, the following guidance for district employees and substitutes are expected.
Safety and Bullying: Transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming students are disproportionately targeted for teasing, bullying, harassment, and physical violence.1 These conditions negatively affect their ability to concentrate on academic instruction and may lead them to skip class or even drop out of school altogether.
USD 497 Expectations: All bullying and harassment, including offensive language based upon gender identity, gender expression, or stereotypes will be addressed consistently and equitably as all other types of discrimination.
Names and Pronouns: Students have the right to be addressed by the names and pronouns that correspond with their gender identity. Having one’s gender identity recognized and validated is important and expected.
USD 497 Expectations: Faculty and staff will address each student by the name and pronoun that corresponds with the student’s gender identity. Substitute teachers will be provided an updated classroom roster that reflects a transgender student's name that corresponds with their gender identity. Purposely misgendering may result in discipline up to and including termination.
Locker Rooms: Transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming students need suitable locker room accommodations for physical education classes and opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities. Students have the right to change clothes in a comfortable, safe, and welcoming environment.
USD 497 Expectations: Provide students access to locker rooms that correspond with their gender identity. District staff will ensure all students have a safe and comfortable place to change. For students who prefer, access to an all gender or staff restroom or a private room for changing purposes will be made available.
Gender Segregated Activities: Gender is often used as a method for dividing students into groups, or as a prerequisite for participation. This type of division can be challenging and/or problematic for transgender, non-binary, or gender nonconforming students and families, especially if the students are forced to participate in a group that does not correspond with their gender identity.
USD 497 Expectations: Students will be allowed to participate in groups/activities that correspond with their gender identity. It is the expectation to avoid using gender as a characteristic in classroom/school activities, and when planning or promoting events. Ensure that activities and events are inclusive of students and families of diverse backgrounds. For KSHSAA-sponsored events/activities refer to the KSHSAA Transgender Policy and Guidance.
Support Resources: Transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming students may lack support from their family/guardians and community, and may be at risk of losing family/guardian support and housing if their gender identity is disclosed or confidentiality is not protected. When a student chooses to come out to a family/guardian, support and/or access to resources may be needed.
USD 497 Expectations: Student Services, LGBTQ+ School-Based Club Sponsor(s), Counselor(s), School Social Worker(s), and School Psychologist(s) can provide support and assistance with accessing resources for transgender and gender nonconforming students and their families/guardians. See Lawrence Public Schools LGBTQ+ Student & Family Resource Guide for resources.
- Greytak, E.A., Kosciw, J.G., & Diaz, E.M. (2009). Harsh realities: The experiences of transgender youth in our nation’s schools. New York: GLSEN.
- American Psychological Association (APA). (2006). Answers to your questions about transgender individuals and gender identity. Retrieved August 9, 2010.
- Legal Documentation: Birth Certificate, Passport, Driver's License, Social Security Card, etc. Adapted: The Office of Student, Family, and Community Engagement - Out4Good Program. Minneapolis Public Schools.
10/09/2017