April 8, 2024
Dear Parents/Guardians, Staff, and Community Members:
An article was published on April 5 related to one of our sports teams. As the article contained some inaccurate information, we are hopeful that this communication will provide helpful clarification. As you may know, the Connecticut State Department of Education recently updated its guidance related to transgender and gender-diverse students. This guidance reaffirms the obligation of Connecticut Public Schools to safeguard the well-being of transgender and gender-diverse students and to provide every student with equal access to all educational programs and activities, including sports teams. This guidance also confirms that all students have access to restrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity or expression. Old Saybrook Public Schools’ policies and regulations are consistent with the procedures set forth by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference and Connecticut state law.
Contrary to what the article states, we have not received any complaints from student-athletes or their parents related to the participation in sports of students who are transgender and gender-diverse or the use of locker rooms by any student. Additionally, please be advised that if any student requests additional privacy in the locker room, regardless of their gender identity, we provide such student with an alternative such as a nearby single restroom, privacy partition or curtain, or separate changing schedule. We want all students to feel safe, comfortable, and supported at school and school-sponsored activities.
Old Saybrook Public Schools works actively and diligently to make our students' environments safe, welcoming, and inclusive while also being free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination.
I implore everyone to act with kindness, particularly on social media. We need to model positive, respectful behavior toward all our community members. Remember that our children and their well-being deserve the best from us.
We appreciate your continued positive collaboration and support in creating a community where all students can grow and thrive. If you have any questions or concerns about your individual child, please feel free to contact the school principal or school counselor.
Sincerely,
Krista Bauchman
Interim Superintendent of Schools