Germantown School District has recently passed a policy requiring Transgender students to get written permission from their parents/guardians in order for teachers, coaches, and group advisors to use their preferred names and pronouns. This policy also allows the district to determine whether or not these transgender students can use facilities (bathrooms, locker rooms, etc.) that align with the gender they identify with on a "case by case" basis. 

    This policy change is inherently dangerous for all transgender students. Not only would it force transgender children to come out to their parents, which may put them in an unsafe situation, it also makes it likely that transgender students will face discrimination when it comes to the facilities they use.  According to an article titled "Suicidality Among Transgender Youth: Elucidating the Role of Interpersonal Risk Factors" from the National Library of Medicine, 80% of transgender youth consider suicide, and 40% attempt it. This is due to the transphobia they face in their daily lives, including at school, at home, and in the workplace. Furthermore, having one supportive adult in the lives of transgender youth decreases the risk of suicide by a substantial amount. That one adult is oftentimes a teacher, coach, or group advisor. This policy is putting transgender kids in danger as it restricts access to support they may desperately need. 

    The purpose of this petition is to revoke this damaging policy from Germantown School District. If you want to protect your transgender family, friends, and peers, please sign your name below.