Gender Diversity

Dear Cascade Staff & Parents,

Creating schools that nurture academic achievement, provide physical and emotional safety and welcome all students are common goals for all educators. 

In 2006, House Bill 2661 added sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression to the protected groups from discrimination (RCW 28A.642.010) see Civil Rights Act of 1964.  The primary purpose of this law is protection from discrimination.  In 2015, Washington legislation passed WAC 162-32-060 (gender-segregated facilities).   The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) created rules based on these laws for public schools.  

Procedure 3211 allows transgender students to use the restroom facilities that align with the gender identity or expression they consistently assert while at school. It also provides access to private single-user restrooms for ANY student wishing a higher level of privacy for any reason. All of our schools have these types of restrooms available for student use; students may check with office staff regarding their locations if needed.  

In order for students to feel supported, empowered, and eager to learn, we as educators are committed to creating inclusive environments that affirm and assist all children in succeeding.  Staff training is on-going and new laws and procedures necessitate this annually.  

If you feel you would like to contact your local legislators, please do so; Senator Brad Hawkins and Representatives Mike Steele and Keith Goehner.

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction statement
Equity & Civil Rights-OSPI
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction - LGBTQ Youth

Cascade School District's Gender Diversity Policy & Procedure 3211Update from Tracey Edou, Superintendent

It is the responsibility of each school, the district, and all staff to ensure that all students have a safe environment. The scope of this responsibility includes ensuring that any incident of discrimination or harassment is given immediate attention and/or reported to the primary contact relating to transgender gender-expansive students. The primary contact is Annika Bibby at abibby@cascadesd.org.