Parents demand changes to Sharon schools after Trump's gender policy executive order

During the recent Sharon School Committee meeting on January 22, 2025, discussions centered around significant changes in school policies regarding gender identity and inclusivity, as well as concerns about staffing and budget management within the district.

A key topic was the impact of a new executive order signed by President Trump, which emphasizes biological distinctions between genders. Several parents expressed their support for this order, arguing that it should influence school policies, particularly regarding bathroom access and the teaching of gender identity in classrooms. One parent, Casey, urged the school staff to cease what he termed "gender nonsense" in educational materials, claiming it undermines the dignity and safety of girls. He called for a return to traditional definitions of gender and warned that noncompliance with federal guidelines could jeopardize federal funding for the district.

Another parent, Jay O'Brien, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the current signage at Cottage Elementary School that indicates "all gender" bathrooms. He advocated for clearer signs that reflect a binary understanding of gender and expressed frustration over a lack of communication from the administration regarding these changes.

In contrast, Ahmed Mohammed highlighted the need for a more inclusive school calendar that recognizes diverse cultural and religious holidays, emphasizing the importance of representation for all community members. He argued that students should be able to celebrate their significant holidays without the burden of schoolwork or exams.

Concerns were also raised about the district's handling of special education services. Judy Crosby criticized the decision not to renew the contract of Jessica Murphy, the director of student services, suggesting that this move could negatively impact the quality of services provided to students with special needs. She pointed out that budgetary decisions have led to high turnover rates among instructional assistants, which further complicates the delivery of necessary support for students.

Teachers and instructional assistants voiced their frustrations regarding low wages and the lack of a contract, which they believe undermines their ability to provide quality education. Liz Dickinson, a fifth-grade teacher, read a letter from an instructional assistant detailing the struggles faced due to inadequate pay and the emotional toll it takes on staff.

The meeting underscored a divide in the community regarding educational policies and the need for a balanced approach that respects both traditional values and the diverse needs of all students. As the school committee moves forward, the discussions from this meeting will likely shape future policies and community engagement efforts.