One school in Broward this week is in chaos after some administrators stood up for transgender rights. The four individuals in question have been reassigned while their decisions are investigated.
The controversy ensued after a student, who is trans, was allowed to play on the volleyball team.
Now Coconut Creek’s Monarch High School’s principal, assistant principal, athletic director and information management technician have all been reassigned, for now.
The so-called Fairness In Women’s Sports Act went was signed into law in 2021 and bans trans girls from playing on girls’ sports teams.
Broward County School District spokesperson John Sullivan said, “We will continue to follow state law and will take appropriate action based on the outcome of the investigation. We are committed to providing all our students with a safe and inclusive learning environment.”
Scott Galvin, founder of Safe Schools South Florida, says a trans girl on a school team is something to be celebrated, not punished.
“We urgently call upon Broward Schools to reconsider their approach to this matter. Any investigation or action taken should prioritize the well-being and privacy of the affected student. Safe Schools South Florida stands firmly against any form of discrimination or punitive action that targets inclusivity, especially when it involves vulnerable youth.”
Also demanding to be heard: Monarch students. They staged a protest demanding their peer be allowed to play. During the peaceful, 30-minute walk out, students chanted “Let Her Play,” “Trans Rights are Human Rights” and “Free Cecil Now,” in reference to their principal.
Florida’s Department of Education celebrated the investigation. “As soon as the Department was notified that a biological male was playing on a girls’ team in Broward County, we instructed the district to take immediate action since this is a direct violation of Florida law. We expect there will be serious consequences for those responsible.”
Florida's Republicans are leading a national movement against LGBTQ students and their supporters. The wave of trans sports bans, anti-trans legislation, and “Don’t Say Gay” laws have forced faculty and staff back in the closet and intimidated allies into silence.
