Ferndale Schools Board of Education Passes LGBT Inclusive Policy

FERNDALE – The Ferndale Schools Board of Education passed a resolution in support of the state board LGBT youth guidelines that would allow transgender and gender non-conforming students to use the bathroom that aligns with their gender.
The Ferndale Schools Board of Education took a vote April 18 on two resolutions in support of LGBT youth rights and unanimously agreed to support the state guidelines for LGBT youth.
"The Board of Education of Ferndale Public Schools fully supports the State Board of Education and the proposed guidelines designed to protect the safety and well-being of Michigan LGBTQ students," Ferndale Schools Board of Education President Jennifer LaTosch told OaklandCounty115 before the vote. "Our own Strategic Plan is grounded in the values of trust, respect and inclusion which have guided us in working with and in support of our LGBTQ students and community members. The proposed state guidelines, likewise, provide a framework and guidance to all Michigan districts in creating and maintaining a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. This is a vital step in protecting the physical and emotional safety of our LGBTQ students. We do not tolerate these discriminatory laws enacted by the states of North Carolina or Mississippi, nor will we support an organization or entity that seeks to bring harm to the transgender community. These Resolutions will reaffirm our commitment to support LGBTQ youth, our pledge to speak out against discrimination in all forms, and our appeal to Michigan legislators to disavow similar measures that attempt to harm and marginalize the LGBTQ community."
The state board of education is accepting public comment on the Statement and Guidance on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments for LGBTQ Students. To submit a public comment, visit http://everyvoicecountsmi.org.