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Bowling Green, Warren County School Leaders React to Transgender Directive

Kevin Willis, WKU Public Radio

The leader of Bowling Green city schools says the district will adhere to federal guidance concerning transgender students while at the same time keeping  all students safe. 

In a letter on Friday to public schools across the nation, the U.S. Department of Education said federal law requires them to allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms based on their chosen identity. 

Superintendent Gary Fields says those issues are handled on an individual basis between students, their parents, and school administrators.

"We have to have those discussions to see where students are at that time, based on whether it's a younger student or an older student.  What is best for one child may not be best for other children," Fields told WKU Public Radio.  "We make decisions that are in the best interests of those students and all of our students."

Fields declined to say whether those students use restrooms that correspond with their gender identity or their birth gender.  He added that all Bowling Green schools offer gender neutral restrooms.

Warren County Public Schools requested more time to review the directive before commenting publicly, but issued the following statement:

"We understand this is a guidance letter which does not have the force of actual law similar to how a statute or court ruling would. However, our district's policies are constantly evolving to keep form with societal, legal and other changes. As with any such circumstance, we will take a look at how our current policies compare with the best practices suggestions that accompany the guidance letter to determine what if any changes may be warranted to best serve our students."

Lisa is a Scottsville native and WKU alum. She has worked in radio as a news reporter and anchor for 18 years. Prior to joining WKU Public Radio, she most recently worked at WHAS in Louisville and WLAC in Nashville. She has received numerous awards from the Associated Press, including Best Reporter in Kentucky. Many of her stories have been heard on NPR.
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