RSU 20 board sends student‑inclusivity policy back to committee amid Title IX and community concerns

During the meeting the RSU 20 board conducted a first reading of an "ACA student inclusivity" policy adapted from a Drummond Woodson template. Several board members said they had strong reservations about elements of the draft, particularly provisions that would permit students to use bathrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity.

One board member said she would not support presenting the policy for a second reading in its current form because she believed it could create uncomfortable or unsafe situations for students and said federal law (Title IX) could supersede state guidance in ways the district could not yet predict. Another board member said the policy team had worked to broaden the language to make it inclusive of all students but still had significant concerns.

Following discussion, a board member moved to table the policy. The motion was amended so that the policy would instead be returned to the policy committee for review and revision and to provide clearer guidance, including consideration of pending legal decisions. That amended motion passed by unanimous voice vote.

Student views were heard in the discussion: a student representative said that classmates she spoke with were divided, with many expressing discomfort, while some students supported the policy. Board members stressed the importance of protecting all students’ safety and said they wanted more legal clarity before advancing a required policy.

Next steps: The board’s motion directs that ACA be returned to the policy committee for further review and revision; the committee will be asked to provide revised language and a recommendation to the full board before a second reading is scheduled.