M E M O R A N D U M
To: Honorable Mayor and Town Council
From: Roger Coriat, Council Member, Seat 3
Date: March 15, 2017
Re: Supporting Transgender Student Guidelines
REQUEST
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A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF CUTLER BAY, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING THE LETTER OF GUIDANCE FOR TRANSGENDER STUDENTS; URGING MIAMI-DADE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD TO ABIDE BY THESE GUIDELINES; PROVIDING FOR TRANSMITTAL; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
In May 2016, a letter of guidance regarding transgender students, was produced by the United States Department of Education and the United States Department of Justice. The comprehensive guidelines in the letter address the recognition and protection of transgender students in all aspects of their educational experience, in keeping with the policies of Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972.
In February 2017, these guidelines were rescinded by current administration, citing among other issues the need for further study. However, it is evident in reading through the letter that it was the product of extensive research by qualified experts. Recognizing this, many school districts have continued to abide by these guidelines, including Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
The Town of Cutler Bay should be clear in its support of the LGBTQ population, including students in the Town and throughout the County. As such, it should commend Miami-Dade County Public Schools on its decision to recognize the guidelines regarding transgender students, and encourage them to continue in its policy of compassion and tolerance.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Town Council approve the attached Resolution supporting guidelines proposed by the United States Department of Education and the United States Department of Justice, regarding transgender students.