School Board reviews policy on transgender athletes amid legal feedback process

The Colorado Springs School District No. 11 Board of Education held a special meeting on May 29, 2025, to discuss various policy matters, with a significant focus on gender inclusion in athletics. The meeting began with a discussion on the importance of providing specific guidance to ensure a level playing field for both female and male athletes. A board member referenced a notable case involving swimmer Riley Gaines, who has raised concerns about the impact of transgender athletes on female sports, highlighting the ongoing legal challenges surrounding this issue.

The board confirmed that there would be no immediate changes to the existing policy language but agreed to seek legal feedback on potential risks associated with the current policy. A timeline was established for posting the policy for non-action the following week, with the intention of gathering community feedback before a subsequent action meeting.

Further discussions included personal experiences shared by board members regarding restroom access and the discomfort some students have faced. One member expressed strong support for the proposed policy, emphasizing the need to balance the rights of all students without discrimination.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency and community engagement as the board prepares to review legal feedback and finalize the policy. The session was officially adjourned at 9:56 PM, with plans for continued dialogue on these important issues in future meetings.