Oakland Unified's Stance On Transgender Students

OAKLAND, CA — In light of the Trump Administration’s decision to remove Federal Title IX protections for transgender students, Oakland Unified School District reminds the public that OUSD’s commitment to supporting all students including trans and gender nonconforming students remains the same.

In fact, since the Nondiscrimination/Harassment and Transgender Policy 5145.3 was adopted by the Governing Board in 2012, the District has expanded programs and policies to meet the unique needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) student population.

“Transgender rights are human rights and we are here to defend those rights by ensuring that every single one of our students feels safe, welcome and has the support they need to learn at school,” said Dr. Devin Dillon, Interim Superintendent.

The OUSD Statement of Support for Transgender Students released on February 23 echoes her affirmation, specifying “We protect our students’ rights, including the right to use the bathroom that matches their gender identity.”

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OUSD recognizes that full support for LGBTQ students happens on the District level as well as with all staff and students. With that in mind, every OUSD middle school and high school has a LGBTQ Liaison on staff to facilitate communication between the school and the District as well as lead Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) clubs and support policies.

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In April 2017, for the third year in a row, student members of the GSA from across the District will meet for two days of workshops, education and community building.

Additionally, OUSD’s Community Schools and Student Services provides numerous supports, including Growth and Development Education and access to Sexual Health Services for all students. Programs include trainings for all staff members and educators including clerical, attendance clerks, nutritional and custodial services to prepare them to support all students and create an environment in which everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

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For families, the District also offers a form that parents may use to change the name of their child on District records in order to reflect the child's gender identity.

The OUSD Transgender Policy and full OUSD Statement of Support is posted online.

-Announcement from OUSD; Image via Shutterstock