Maine School Administrative District 6 has guidance to keep gender identity of students hidden from parents

Parents Defending Education submitted a public records request to Maine School Administrative District 6 seeking any guidance on transgender issues. The district provided PDE with several documents, including the “Bonny Eagle High School Faculty Handbook 2024-2025” and “Bonny Eagle Middle School Staff Handbook 2024-2025.” Both handbooks discuss keeping the gender identity of students hidden from parents. Both the middle school and high school handbooks state:

Sometimes students want to identify as transgender or gender expressive at school, but have not shared that information with parents. If this is the case, teachers should notify an administrator who will work with the student to develop a support plan. Bonny Eagle Schools are committed to being transparent and honest with both students and parents, and we will encourage all students to talk with their parents about their gender identity. In instances where the student’s safety or well being is a factor, the administration will work with the student to make a plan that maintains safety while still allowing the student to be their whole selves at school.

Staff are mandated to use the preferred pronouns of students: “Students are to be addressed by their preferred name and/or pronouns corresponding with their gender identity.” Students are allowed to use the restrooms and locker rooms as well as participate in sports according to their preferred gender identity.

The district also provided PDE with a “Transgender Student Support Plan” template. This plan asks for students’ “preferred gender identity,” “preferred gender expression,” and “preferred pronouns.” One question on the form asks: “How public or private will information about this student’s transition/gender status be at school?” One potential answer is “child’s parents/guardians are aware.” Another question asks: “If the student is not out to their parents, how would the student like to handle potential disclosure situations?”