Texas public schools might incur fines if they use students’ preferred pronouns, particularly in cases where this could be interpreted as supporting a “social transition.” This potential change comes alongside a new legislative bill.
The proposed legislation would require school districts to assist students in altering their names, clothing, or hairstyles.
Republican Rep. Nathan Schatzline, who is leading this initiative, stated during a committee meeting that the bill aims to protect children from what he terms “irreversible harm.” He emphasized that schools should not serve as environments for “secret agendas or social experiments.” According to him, this bill aims to eliminate what he views as the most detrimental aspect of discussing gender identity with children, particularly concerning vulnerable “social transitions.”
Schatzline expressed skepticism towards “gender-affirming care,” suggesting it merely reinforces confusion rather than addressing any real issues. He alleged that educators sometimes are encouraged to conceal information from parents, describing this as deceptive and harmful to parental rights, which he believes perpetuates mental health issues.
A couple from North Texas shared their experience during the session, revealing that their adopted teenage daughter was referred to as “Apollo” by a teacher. They clarified that their daughter, who has special needs, hasn’t undergone any transition and doesn’t fully understand the concept. Although the daughter enjoyed being called “Apollo” at school, they felt the school should have communicated this to them.
“We need to provide children with the facts,” Schatzline stated. He noted that if parents choose to label their child differently at home, that’s their choice, but schools and counselors should not engage in these discussions simultaneously in classrooms.
Opponents of the bill argue that it could further alienate LGBTQ-identifying children. One activist raised concerns that the bill’s language could penalize teachers for addressing students by their chosen names. Mandy Giles, a founder of a group for parents of transgender youth, highlighted her own experience, noting that being called Amanda instead of her preferred name could lead to resentment and potential job loss for educators.
