Maine School Board Debates ACAA Policy Amendments on Gender Identity and Harassment

The RSU 10 Board of Directors meeting on May 12, 2025, took a contentious turn as members debated the proposed revisions to the ACAA harassment policy, particularly regarding the inclusion of gender identity. The discussion centered around an amendment to strike all references to gender identity from the policy, a move that sparked significant debate among board members.

Chad, who initiated the motion, argued that the inclusion of gender identity conflicts with existing legal frameworks, specifically referencing a recent court ruling that removed gender identity from Title IX protections. He emphasized the need for the school board to provide clear and effective policies for administrators to handle harassment claims, stating, "If we have Title IX wording and then Maine Human Rights Act wording, we are not giving our principals the tools to handle harassment claims."

Darcy, another board member, echoed concerns about the implications of the policy change, recalling a student's testimony about feeling uncomfortable with boys using girls' bathrooms. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that all students feel safe and secure in their school environment, stating, "We as a committee have got to be responsible and put policy that actually directs our principals."

The discussion also touched on the complex relationship between federal and state laws, with members debating which should take precedence in cases of conflict. The legal landscape remains murky, with ongoing litigation regarding Title IX and the Maine Human Rights Act, leaving board members grappling with the potential consequences of their decisions.

As the meeting concluded, the board faced the challenge of balancing legal compliance with the need to protect all students' rights and safety. The outcome of this policy revision could have lasting implications for how harassment is addressed in Maine schools, making it a critical issue for the community.