NHPS is committed to providing safe, inclusive spaces for all students and staff. Pursuant to the guidance provided by the State of Connecticut, as a general rule, schools may not separate or otherwise distinguish students on the basis of their sex, including gender identity or expression, in any school activities or the application of any school rule. State and federal laws, however, do permit school districts to provide single-sex restrooms, locker rooms, shower facilities and athletic/physical education activities. School districts have certain obligations in protecting the rights of their transgender students with respect to single-sex facilities and activities.

A school’s obligation to provide transgender and gender-non-conforming students with equal access to educational programs, activities and facilities, including restrooms and locker rooms, applies irrespective of concerns or objections raised by other students, parents, staff or community members. A desire to accommodate others’ discomfort is not a permissible basis for failing to treat students consistent with their gender identity or expression.

While the objections of others cannot serve as the basis for failing to provide access to facilities consistent with the student’s gender identity, as noted above, appropriate accommodations must be provided for any student seeking additional privacy. Schools may find it helpful to note the availability of private options in addressing objections from students, parents/guardians or staff.

Students have the right to be addressed by a name and pronoun that the student prefers and corresponds to their gender identity, even if education records or identification documents indicate a different name or sex. Using the student’s chosen name and pronoun is important not only for legal compliance, but also for ensuring the student’s dignity and well-being. If school staff are unsure what name and pronoun to use, privately asking students what their preferred gender pronouns and names are in an age-appropriate manner is the best place to start. It is important o remember that some students may not identify as male or female, but instead, consider themselves non-binary (i.e., otherwise not conforming to gender binary references to the two categories of male and female). Using these terms may be unfamiliar at first and it may take time for school staff to become accustomed to new terminology on gender identity, but, as with any new term or usage, these terms will become familiar with practice, appropriate training and support.

If any of these protections are violated, contact the school’s Title IX Coordinator.