(NY) Saratoga schools stand firm in support of trans students...

[Jessica_Rose]

Saratoga schools stand firm in support of trans students amid Stefanik threat

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/saratoga-schools-stand-firm-in-support-of-trans-students-amid-stefanik-threat/ar-AA1Dnyax?ocid=hpmsn&cvid=2a31e000155a4385b1e9e955305aa656&ei=107

Story by Wendy Liberatore (22 April 2025)

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The city school district's reaffirmation of support for all students, including transgender and gender-expansive students, has prompted Congresswoman Elise Stefanik to blast the district and call for a federal investigation into its policy.

The board reasserted its long-standing policy of "Affirming Our Support for Every Student" after receiving reports that transgender and immigrant students, in particular, were targets of harassment and bullying.

At the time, board President Anjeannette Emeka said the restatement of the existing policy was important as the country is experiencing "unsettling times" and that restating the policy would "signal to students and parents and our community, teachers, everyone that we value and support them and the dignity and rights of those who may feel (unsupported) and vulnerable ... are of our upmost concern."

Inside the one-page statement is this sentence... "We will ensure their right to use facilities and participate in activities and sports consistent with their gender identity."

Parent Rebecca Lynch was one of many supporters of the board's action, and said the district must continue to support transgender students who face challenges including "discrimination, misunderstanding and policies that try to erase who they are."

"Let me be clear, trans students belong here," Lynch said. "Their identities are valid. Their experiences matter and they enrich our schools with their courage, creativity and resilience. Supporting trans students should not be a political issue. It's a human one."