WSCSD Communications

In light of changes at the federal level, I recently wrote to you to alleviate concerns related to the safety of our immigrant students in school. I write to you now regarding changes at the federal level related to transgender students and student athletes.

On Thursday, February 13, 2025, the NCAA changed its participation policy for transgender athletes, limiting competition in women’s sports to athletes who were assigned female at birth. This announcement came after the President signed an executive order intended to ban transgender athletes from girls’ and womens’ sports.

Also on February 13, 2025, I received a communication from the Office of Attorney General and the New York State Department of Education to inform school superintendents that the executive orders do not affect the rights of transgender students and individuals in New York’s public schools.

As reflected in my recent communications, there are changes at the federal level that are causing confusion and concern among some of our families and students. Regardless of one’s personal opinion on these situations, I feel compelled to share two key points:

• To ensure faculty, staff, parents and students have the facts as they relate to New York State’s position on these situations;

• Our students feel welcome, safe and included in our schools.

All students, including our transgender and immigrant students, are and will continue to be supported in our schools, which is aligned with the position of the New York State Department of Education. Only when our students feel seen, heard and included in their school community will they reach their full potential. And, our most important work is to ensure our students reach their full potential.

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Krueger, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools