West Warwick Public Schools has policy to keep gender identity of students hidden from parents

West Warwick Public Schools has a policy in place titled “Gender Support and Inclusion Policy for Transgender, Gender-Diverse, and Transitioning Students.” The policy states that the gender identity of secondary students can be hidden from parents: “Generally, notification to a student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) about their gender identity, expression, or transition is unnecessary, as they are already aware and supportive.” The policy then makes this point clear:

If the superintendent believes additional steps may be needed, the superintendent will guide the team. If the school licensed mental health provider determines that notifying the family carries risks for the student, it should work closely with the student to assess the degree to which, if any, the family will be involved in the process and must consider the age, health, well-being, and safety of the student.

The policy further states: “At the secondary level, the support team will determine if there are safety concerns in reporting to parents. The ultimate goal is to include the families in the process. This may take several meetings. If safety cannot be guaranteed, the student’s decision will not be revealed to the family.”

Students are allowed to use the restrooms and locker rooms as well as participate in sports according to their preferred gender identity.

The language of the policy appears to be taken from Rhode Island’s statewide transgender policy.