During a recent Kennewick School District meeting, community members voiced strong opinions regarding the participation of transgender athletes in school sports, highlighting concerns about fairness and safety for female athletes. A parent expressed worries about the vulnerability of girls in sports, suggesting that allowing boys to compete with girls could lead to negative outcomes, including discouragement and withdrawal from activities. The speaker emphasized the importance of maintaining separate categories for boys and girls in sports to protect the privacy and opportunities of young female athletes.

Elena Gamboa addressed the board regarding the after-school program at Fuerza Elementary, thanking the board for their support and requesting approval for the Educational Service District 123 to operate out of the school. She urged the board to clarify any legalities surrounding fundraising efforts, emphasizing the program's significance for the community.

Other speakers echoed similar sentiments about the fairness of competition, with one parent sharing personal experiences and advocating for equal opportunities for all children while also expressing love and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Concerns were raised about the impact of allowing biological boys to compete against girls, with references to documented injuries in sports and the potential loss of scholarships for female athletes.

The meeting highlighted a divide in opinions on how best to support all students while ensuring fair competition in school sports, with calls for clear policies and guidelines from the school district to address these complex issues.