FAQs Regarding District Student Facility Access and Accommodations

Wilson School District, as part of its commitment to providing a respectful, caring, and supportive environment for all students – free from any form of discrimination or harassment – developed procedures regarding bathroom access and accommodation for our students. The following commonly asked questions (along with answers) pertain to the procedure that is in effect throughout the District:

What does it mean to be transgender, and what does cisgender mean when used to discuss issues of access and accommodation of school facilities?

A:  “Transgender” describes students whose gender identity is different from the sex assigned at birth. The designation of ‘transgender’ is made by the individual and is respected by the District. “Cisgender” refers to a person whose gender identity corresponds with the sex assigned to them at birth.

How long has Wilson had this procedure?

A:  This procedure was developed in 2018, however, we have been working with families for many years to accommodate all students to provide a safe learning environment.

How were these procedures developed?

A:  These procedures were developed in consultation with our legal counsel and administration and with the approval of our School Board of Directors.

May parents/guardians request to be notified about the existence and identity of transgender students at a school?

A:  A student’s gender identity, like most student-specific information (such as religious affiliation), is a personal and private matter that is protected under law. However, the transgender student may decide to disclose it and the district would then work with them in a respectful and supportive fashion.

Doesn’t the District have a non-discrimination policy that already applies to all students?

A:  Yes, the District has a general policy, but the new procedures are specific to transgender individuals.

Does the District Solicitor agree with the actions being taken? And what would happen if the District did nothing and just maintained the status quo?

A:  The Solicitor, whose firm has extensive experience dealing with similar matters in other Pennsylvania school districts, is involved in the legal review of all proposed procedures to ensure fairness and compliance.