Hiding kids’ ‘gender identity’ from parents is common in blue state fighting Trump on trans issues

More than 50 school districts in Maine have policies that allow minors to hide their gender identity from their parents, according to a new report from Parents Defending Education (PDE). The grassroots organization conducted public records requests and found that 57 out of the state’s 192 school districts have policies that exclude parents from knowing whether their children identify as another gender.

This revelation comes on the heels of a clash between President Donald Trump and Democrat Maine Gov. Janet Mills over the enforcement of Trump’s “No Men in Women’s Sports” executive order. Trump criticized Governor Mills for her refusal to comply with the order, citing the prevalence of policies in Maine that allow minors to conceal their gender identity from their parents.

Erika Sanzi, a spokesperson for PDE, expressed concern over the impact of these policies on parents and students. She highlighted the fact that nearly 80% of constituents in Maine oppose such policies, emphasizing the need for districts to reconsider their approach. Sanzi also pointed out that the Trump administration’s executive orders on gender issues should prompt districts to review and potentially revise their policies.

One example of a district with a policy on transgender and gender expansive students is Portland Public Schools, the state’s largest district. The policy stipulates that if a student and their parent or legal guardian disagree about the student’s gender identity, the school must abide by the student’s wishes while at school. Additionally, school staff are required to comply with the student’s preferences regarding the disclosure of their transgender status to others, unless explicitly authorized by the student or legally required.

Despite Trump’s executive order on ending radical indoctrination in K-12 schooling, which addresses issues like parental consent in gender-related decisions, some policies in Maine remain unchanged. Trump has threatened to withhold federal funding from Maine if the state continues to allow male participation in women’s sports.

In response to Trump’s orders, several blue states, including California and Minnesota, have also indicated that they will not comply. The executive order aims to uphold fairness and safety in women’s sports by preventing male participation in female-designated spaces.

As the debate over gender policies in schools continues, it is essential for policymakers, educators, and parents to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure that the rights and well-being of all students are protected. The Maine Department of Education has yet to comment on the matter, but the spotlight on these issues signals a growing need for transparency and accountability in educational settings.