Controversial policies tabled at Berwick School District

BERWICK, COLUMBIA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— Two potentially controversial policies in the Berwick School District.

Board officials proposing motions that would affect those in the LGBTQ+ community.

These two new policies, if passed could limit some freedoms for LGBTQ+ students, and some tonight say they’re afraid it goes too far.

“By doing these policies you are putting the trans and the non-binary kids at risk,” said Kristina Culver of Berwick.

June is Pride Month, but Kristina Culver doesn’t feel two new potential policies in the Berwick Area School District are something to celebrate.

“We’re creating a problem where there isn’t one,” stated Culver.

At a meeting Thursday night, Berwick Area School Board Officials discussed “Sex-based distinctions in athletics policy,” and the “Student records policy”.

Under the “Sex-based distinctions in athletics policy,” athletic teams would be separated by sex to “Preserve fairness, safety, and to provide increased opportunities for females in athletics.”

“Which again would be detrimental to our trans youth who would be interested in participating in school sports,” added Culver.

The “Student records policy,” would ensure the district keeps accurate records of the students gender, sex and identity.

If a student wanted to change their legal name in an official record, the district would do so, only if the guardian or eligible student submits a written request and legal document reflecting the name change.

If a student identifies with a gender identity different from their sex, the eligible student and or parent and guardian may provide that additional information in writing during registration or after.

For pronouns, students are to be addressed by the proper pronoun matching the students official records. Culver feels that may not be the safest option for student.

“For us to be telling teachers that we have to call parents. We are taking away any safety for that child and really that child’s rights because not all parents are accepting,” explained Culver.

Berwick Area School District Board President Jared Yost, who declined to be on camera, told 28/22 News they’re only enforcing policies already in place and will treat each student on a case by case basis to help prevent bullying and harassment.

“It will be lawsuits that will occur. No doubt in my mind,” stated Culver.

Both policies were tabled tonight. There will be another meeting addressing them on July 15 at 6:00 p.m.

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