Northern California School Districts Implement Controversial Gender Notification Policies

The Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District in Roseville, California, has approved a policy that requires parental notification if a student requests to be identified as a gender other than their biological sex. The policy was passed unanimously by the Board of Trustees and aims to promote a safe and inclusive school environment. While some parents support the change, others argue that teachers should not keep secrets from parents regarding their children's mental and health matters. California Attorney General Rob Bonta and LGBTQ+ advocates have criticized similar policies in other school districts, stating that they can force children to disclose their gender identity before they are ready or feel safe. A judge has temporarily halted a parental notification policy in another district, and other districts are considering similar measures.