JBD-Gender Identity Support

Policy Homepage

Policy JBD

Adopted: December 12, 2019
Amended: 

The Hopkinton Public Schools strive to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment in which all students can progress developmentally and academically.

Hopkinton Public Schools support and respect students' individual differences. For students who identify as gender nonconforming and/or transgender, a supportive strategic plan to address legal and social emotional issues will be developed by a team of school personnel who are familiar with the student. This team may include the school administrator, school counselors, and school nurse. The plan will address the student's needs during school as well as during before and after school activities. 

Students who identify as gender nonconforming and/or transgender, are entitled to have access to restrooms, locker rooms and changing facilities that are sanitary, safe, and adequate, so they can comfortably and fully engage in their school program and activities. Transgender students who are uncomfortable using a sex-segregated restroom should be provided with a safe and adequate alternative.

A component of the student's support plan may include name changes and gender identity  markers used in communication with and about the student and in written communication with the family or legal guardians. Hopkinton Public Schools will not require legal documentation to change the student's name or gender.

Hopkinton Public Schools’ administration and staff will follow the referenced procedures for supporting the student and developing the support plan. The plan will be reviewed and revised on an as needed basis.

First Reading:

October 3, 2019

Second Reading:

December 12, 2019

Third Reading:

Policy Amended:

December 12, 2019

Legal References:

An Act Relative to Gender Identity (Chapter 199 of the Acts of 2011) MGL c.4, s5

MGL c. 76, § 5

603 CMR 26.00

603 CMR 1.00

603 CMR 23.00

603 CMR § 23.04

603 CMR §§23.01 and 23.07.

The federal Family Educational Rights  and Privacy Act, 20 USC 1232g

http://www.doe.mass.edu/sfs/lgbtq/GenderIdentity.html