School committee reviews transgender policy language; considers adding 'intersex' definition during public comment period

The Westford School Committee discussed proposed edits to the districts policy on transgender and gender‑nonconforming students and considered adding a definition of the term “intersex” after a public commenter asked for clarification.

Policy overview and timing: Administrators said the draft policy is open for public comment through Thursday, Dec. 12, and the committee expects to consider and possibly vote on the revised policy at its Dec. 16 meeting.

Discussion: Committee members and administrators described the current draft as a mixture of definitions and guidance meant to clarify terms used in later sections of the policy. One public commenter — a specialist who had provided sample language in prior policy meetings — and several committee members said adding an intersex definition could be helpful as an educational clarification, not a medical directive.

School Committee member Mari asked why the Day School was chosen for a proposed medically fragile program earlier in the meeting; during the policy discussion members instead focused on whether the added terms were educational and inclusive without creating confusion. Committee members suggested citing sources when possible (for example, guidance from the Massachusetts Commission for LGBTQ+ Youth or the Trevor Project) to show that definitions come from recognized resources rather than appearing ad hoc.

Next steps: The administration said it will consider adding a brief intersex definition to the glossary/definitions section and will review source references. The policy remains available for public comment until Dec. 12; a vote is planned for the committees next meeting, Dec. 16.

Routine business: The committee approved the consent agenda at the start of the meeting and later adjourned by voice vote.