MEAD, Wash. — The Mead School Board revisited proposed changes to its transgender student policy during Tuesday night’s meeting, but opted to not vote on the revisions until federal investigators complete their review of the state superintendent’s office.
The discussion comes after the board said the state superintendent’s office urged them not to approve their proposed changes just hours before a scheduled vote in April.
The proposed changes, which remain unchanged from those presented in April, would require staff to use a student’s requested name instead of pronouns whenever possible, mandate coordination with administrators for restroom use that does not align with a student’s biological sex and assign overnight trip accommodations based on biological sex.
The policy also states that no student would be forced to use a restroom that conflicts with their gender identity.
During public comment, Alaura Miller, a Mead School District graduate and member of the Washington Office of Equity, criticized the proposed policy.
“It is irresponsible and dangerous.” Miller said. “These are children under your care, and I implore you to actually see your students, hear them, hear their stories and don’t tell them how they feel for who they are is wrong.”
Board Vice President BrieAnne Gray said there was no reason to make changes until the Department of Education and Department of Justice complete their investigation into the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), which was announced last month.
The board did approve a resolution to re-enroll in the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) for the 2025–2026 school year, while also sending a letter to the WIAA expressing concerns about what is sees as a lack of protections for female athletes.
The proposed transgender policy revisions are expected to remain on upcoming school board agendas without a vote until the federal investigation concludes.
You can find the full proposed policy and the letter board members voted to send to the WIAA, HERE.
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