School Board Discusses Controversial Transgender Policy Amid Legal Concerns

The RSU 10 Board of Directors meeting held on May 12, 2025, focused on significant discussions regarding harassment policies and the treatment of transgender and gender nonconforming individuals within the school district. The meeting began with a review of the proposed amendments to the harassment policy, specifically addressing concerns about the language used in the policy and its implications for various protected classes.

A board member expressed the need for clearer policies that would not inadvertently create conflicts between different protected classes, emphasizing the importance of responsible wording. Another member echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the current policies may not align with Title IX regulations. A motion was made to amend the policy by removing references to gender identity, but the motion did not pass, leading the board to revert to the original motion regarding the first reading of the revised harassment policy. This motion ultimately carried, indicating the board's decision to proceed with the existing policy framework.

During the board member comments section, members took the opportunity to address the district's transgender and gender nonconforming students, affirming their value and importance within the community. One member expressed regret over the discussions that had taken place, acknowledging the potential harm caused by the board's deliberations.

Further discussion revealed procedural concerns regarding the adoption of policy ACAAA, which had not been presented to the policy committee as required. A board member raised issues about the classification of ACAAA as a guideline rather than a policy, insisting that it must be formally adopted by the board. This prompted a call for the policy to be added to the agenda for the next meeting, highlighting ongoing frustrations with the policy adoption process.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the board's commitment to following legal guidelines while navigating the complexities of policy implementation. The discussions underscored the board's challenges in balancing legal compliance with the needs of all students, particularly those from marginalized groups. The next steps will involve further examination of the policies in question and continued dialogue on how to best support the district's diverse student body.