The U.S. Department of Education has opened a Title IX investigation into Cabarrus County Schools in North Carolina following complaints from high school girls regarding the district's transgender policy. The investigation was prompted by allegations that biological male students were permitted to use girls' bathrooms and locker rooms, leading to concerns about privacy and safety among female students.
The Education Department's letter stated that the district allegedly failed to address reports of female students experiencing harassment from male students in these spaces. Trista Ruck, a student at Cox Mill High School, reported feeling uncomfortable with a male using the women's bathroom and claimed that school officials dismissed her concerns, labeling the issue as "too political to address."
The Office for Civil Rights will examine whether the district's policies discriminate against female students by not providing them access to private spaces. The department has requested documentation related to the district's policies on gender identity and any complaints received from female students.
School officials have previously stated that they are bound by laws prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity. The investigation follows a letter from Representative Addison McDowell (R-NC), who urged the Trump administration to take action regarding the district's policies. Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Kimberly Richey emphasized that the investigation reflects the administration's commitment to protecting the privacy and safety of women and girls under Title IX.
