Policy 5756: We Need Transparency and Reconsideration

I am writing to express my appreciation to the Bridgewater Raritan Regional Board of Education for their recent discussion on February 25 regarding Policy 5756 Transgender Policy, also referred to by some as the "Don't Tell Parents Policy". This policy has far-reaching implications for our entire school community.

Since its introduction, Policy 5756 has been incorrectly marked as "M" (mandatory) in the policy manual. However, during the last meeting, Ms. Lucy Li provided a crucial update, informing the board and the community that this policy is not mandatory, correcting a long-held misconception.

Matter of fact, originally an enabling legislation required the development of a guideline by Commissioner of Education, but the content of the guideline is not legally binding. The scope of it is also challenged in federal lawsuit as exceeding its enabling legislation. The local Board of Education has the full authority to adopt or reject this policy and determine its content in accordance with the law.

Regrettably, the policy writer contracted by our school district has misrepresented Policy 5756 as mandatory, and it remains incorrectly labeled as such. I am grateful for Ms. Li's update and her mention of alternative policy forms that satisfy legal requirements. With this misconception cleared, we can now openly discuss the policy's merits.

Many parents are unaware that this policy can keep parents in the dark about their student’s transgender status, while requiring disclosure of all other matters. I commend Board member Jeremy Li for emphasizing the importance of parental involvement. A loving, close relationship with parents is not a privilege but a priority for all families. When this is absent, resources should be provided to foster it. A strong family unit offers children the best economic, social, and emotional support structure. In case if child abuse might be concern, there are established child welfare agencies such as like DCP&P, who has set protocol to follow for abusive situation. Our school should aim to support and facilitate family communication rather than excluding parents.

Policy 5756 also sets rules for privacy, sports participation, and facility use (e.g., locker rooms etc.). For details, see the policy:

https://www.straussesmay.com/s...

According to this policy, asserted gender identity is the sole basis for all gender-related decisions in school. I question whether this policy genuinely helps children questioning their gender or effectively supports transgender students, and the impact on all students.

Given these concerns, I have signed a petition to repeal Policy 5756. I urge the Board of Education to reconsider this policy and prioritize protection for all students, transparency, and parental involvement.

https://www.change.org/p/petit...