The Trump administration is stepping in to investigate the Saratoga Springs school district in upstate New York. This follows the district’s decision to disregard a federal directive that bans transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced on Tuesday that they would be looking into the allegations that the district is discriminating against girls by allowing biological boys to participate in girls’ sports and access their locker rooms.
“Our administration is committed to ensuring that the educational experiences of women and girls are not compromised by sexism,” McMahon said. “Letting men take part in women’s sports and use private facilities meant solely for women clearly violates federal civil rights law and women’s dignity.”
McMahon argued that the district’s actions contravene Title IX of the federal Civil Rights Act, which is intended to shield students from gender-based discrimination in federally funded schools and programs.
“Women have fought for decades for Title IX protections, only to see them undermined by those who prioritize misguided ideologies over fairness, dignity, and safety,” she added.
Back in January, President Trump had issued an executive order demanding the exclusion of men from women’s sports.
This investigation comes at the request of Rep. Elise Stefanik, who represents the area, including Saratoga Springs. She criticized the district for passing a resolution that claims to support all students but allows transgender students the right to use facilities and engage in activities that align with their gender identity.
Just last month, Stefanik had sent a letter to McMahon urging an inquiry into the district for allegedly discriminating against girls by permitting biological boys who identify as transgender to share locker rooms and compete in girls’ events.
As she campaigns for the governor’s position next year, Stefanik has expressed her appreciation for the swift action taken by the White House and McMahon.
“After my intense public advocacy, I want to thank President Trump and Secretary McMahon for promptly initiating a formal investigation into the Saratoga Springs School District for not upholding Title IX protections for women and girls in sports,” Stefanik stated.
In response to the situation, the U.S. Department of Education’s Civil Rights Office informed Principal Michael Patton about the investigation. The department has requested that the district provide documentation on all current policies and procedures, as well as information related to inquiries or complaints.
Moreover, the district has been asked to submit a roster of the girls’ athletic team and identify any male athletes listed.
