By John Mack Freeman
On May 3rd, the Chicago Public Schools system released new guidelines related to trans students and staff use of restrooms and locker rooms in the district. Via the press release from Chicago Public Schools:
Chicago Public Schools ( CPS ) today announced the implementation of new guidelines to support transgender students, employees and adults to ensure CPS schools are safe, welcoming environments for everyone in the school community. For the first time, CPS is providing clear guidance on restroom, locker room and overnight trip accessibility, and establishing support for employees and adults in addition to students.
“The guidelines released today will help ensure every student and adult in the CPS family can participate in an environment of complete tolerance and respect,” said CPS Chief Education Officer Dr. Janice K. Jackson. “CPS, like much of the country, has become far more aware of the needs and experiences of the transgender community, and it’s crucial for CPS guidelines to reflect our commitment to promoting safe and inclusive schools. These guidelines build on our commitment to fostering healthy and supportive learning opportunities across the District so that each of our students can reach their full potential.”
CPS’ new guidelines build on the student guidelines implemented in 2014, which clarified, among other things, that transgender and gender nonconforming students should be provided the same opportunities to participate in physical education, sexual health education, sports, clubs and school events as all other students. Today’s more expansive guidelines provide clear guidance on restroom, locker room and overnight trip accessibility.
Additionally, for the first time the District established guidelines to support transgender employees and adults. To develop the District’s new guidelines, CPS worked with the Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health, Illinois Safe Schools Alliance, Mikva Challenge, Lambda Legal and Lurie Children’s Gender and Sex Development Program.
