Emily Peterson said she has compassion for students who are questioning identity but emphasized protecting girls’ spaces and safety in athletics and bathrooms.

“...if you’re a male, you are stronger than a female,” Peterson said, adding that because of biological differences the district must “honor the girls. We need to protect women.” She said she would consider other competitive categories but resisted allowing boys to compete in girls’ sports in the same category.

On student clubs (GSA / gender support groups), Peterson said she does not want children bullied and is open to students feeling safe, but said adult‑led discussions that involve explicit sexual topics with minors cross a line and could violate laws or policies. “When you’re talking to children about ***, that’s inappropriate, and it’s against the law,” she said.

Peterson framed her approach as seeking safety for all students while upholding age‑appropriate boundaries and complying with legal limits on instruction and discussion with minors.