The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Association (WIAA) has developed a policy for accommodating transgendered students in athletic activities (pdf of the policy is available here: WIAA Transgender Participation Policy). Private schools participating in WIAA sports are covered by the policy.
Additionally, the Wisconsin Legislature is reviewing a proposed bill that would provide a statewide policy for gender specific bathroom use in public schools. Private schools are not covered by the proposed law.
The bill sponsors, Rep. Jesse Kremer (R-Kewaskum) and Sen. Stephen Nass (R-Whitewater) say they are seeking the legislation in response to recent situations in school districts around the state. They say their bill reinforces that gender specific bathrooms and locker facilities are not to be used by persons of the opposite biological gender. Should a student express to a school board in writing that he or she identifies as the opposite gender, the school must accommodate that student with a reasonable alternative such as a single occupancy or faculty bathroom or changing area.
“This bill is first and foremost to keep our kids safe. Clarifying the appropriate use of bathroom and locker facilities will ensure that the dignity of all students is respected in these areas where privacy and safety are paramount,” said Rep. Kremer in a public statement.
Help for Parents Navigating Transgender Discussions
Now that transgender issues are finding their way into everyday public discussion, many religious and independent school parents have expressed concern about how to talk with children when these issues arise.
Focus on the Family has a resource that may be useful.
Go to https://focusonthefamily.webconnex.com/co-truetolerance2014?refcd=230607.
