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Philadelphia School District Approves New Guidelines For Transgender Students

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The School Reform Commission met on Thursday night to vote on new guidelines regarding the rights of transgender students in the School District of Philadelphia.

The commission announced the approval of a new policy that outlines the rights of those students within Philadelphia schools.

Below are the new guidelines that are going into effect immediately for teachers, school and district staff, students, parents and school volunteers:

  1. Students may be addressed by names and pronouns corresponding to their gender identity in interaction with other students and staff. This will be true for written records including rosters, report cards, photo ID and letters from the district or school.
  2. Transgender identity, legal name and sex assigned at birth will be confidential information.
  3. Students may participate in gender-segregated groups that correspond with their gender identity.
  4. Schools should use gender-neutral language in communication with students and families, regardless of a student's gender identity.
  5. Students can access locker rooms and bathrooms that correspond with their gender identity. Students who want more privacy will be granted acccess to a single-stall restroom or alternative changing area. No student will be required to use a single-stall restroom.
  6. Students are allowed to dress in accordance with their gender identity. Schools may not adopt a dress code that restricts clothing or appearance based on gender.

"We have worked closely with students and members of the LGBTQ community to develop these guidelines," said Superintendent Dr. William R. Hite in a statement. "Every student deserves to know their rights will be recognized and upheld at school. This policy provides clear guidance and will help to ensure that our schools remain welcoming to all of our students."

Click here to see the full guidelines that were approved on Thursday.

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