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Beverly School Committee adopts resolution affirming protections for LGBTQ+ students and staff
Summary
After public comment from students, families and educators, the Beverly School Committee unanimously approved a resolution reaffirming nondiscrimination and safety protections for LGBTQ+ students and employees, with amendments clarifying language and adding “LGBTQ+” in the title.
The Beverly School Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to adopt a resolution declaring the district a safe, nondiscriminatory place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and other LGBTQ+ students, staff and families.
The resolution, introduced by School Committee member Lorinda Visnick and amended on the floor to add “LGBTQ+” in the title and a small grammatical fix, reaffirms the district’s obligations under state law and DESE guidance to prohibit discrimination and harassment on the basis of gender identity and to provide a learning environment that supports student well-being.
The motion grew out of more than an hour of public comment. Students, parents, teachers and counselors urged the committee to move beyond a statement and to follow with specific supports. Abigail Contos, a sixth-grader who identified herself as transgender, told the committee, “I will not let them erase me,” and asked for a clear public statement from local leaders. Andrea Sherman, co-president of the Beverly Teachers Association, asked the district and school committee to name management representatives to a stakeholder task force to address health and safety needs raised during last year’s labor actions.
The resolution cites state law and guidance, including an act relative to gender identity and DESE direction that districts must support transgender and gender-nonconforming students. It also reaffirms Beverly Public Schools’ nondiscrimination statement added in 2012 and describes the district’s duty to prevent bullying and support diverse curricula and student services.
Committee members debated a short amendment to the title and small wording changes before the roll call. Mayor Mary Cahill and other members said the resolution was consistent with the district’s legal obligations and reaffirmed the school system’s role in promoting student safety and belonging. Superintendent/administration representatives said the district will continue to partner with DESE programs that provide technical assistance and training.
The committee approved the resolution as amended by a 5-0 vote. Members asked administration and community groups to continue work on specific follow-up steps—such as training, counseling supports and clearer procedures for employees and students—that would be considered at future meetings.
