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One transgender student in a middle school in Stafford County, Virginia was left alone and separated from her peers during a lock down drill when teachers debated where she should take shelter.
The story was shared by LGBTQ rights group Equality Stafford on Facebook on Oct. 4, where they decried the incident.
According to Equality Stafford, a particular class of children were made to take shelter in a bathroom/locker room nearest them during their physical education class.
“One student was prevented from entering either the boys or girls locker room while the teachers discussed where she should go,” Equality Stafford said.
“The student was forced to watch the adults charged with her care, debate the safest place (for the other students) to have her shelter. During this debate, she was instructed to sit in the gym with a teacher until the drill was complete, away from her peers and identified as different.”
The transgender student’s name and the school were withheld by Equality Stafford. It was further revealed, however, that after some time debating, the teachers eventually decided to put the student in a locker room hall, away from her peers.
“This happened because the child, in addition to being a model student, also happens to be transgender,” Equality Stafford said. “During an event that prepares children to survive an attack by actual assailants, she was treated as if she was so much of a danger to peers that she was left exposed and vulnerable.”
The group has since called on parents and supporters to turn up to the Stafford County Schools board meeting on Oct. 9 to raise their voice regarding the incident.
“We need you to come and lend your voice to the growing cry. This is unacceptable, this cannot happen to one more child. Not one more in this county. Not ever again,” the group stated.
Meanwhile, Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) spokeswoman Sherrie Johnson has since issued a statement regarding the incident with the transgender student, according to WUSA9 on Oct. 4. Johnson said that the SCPS does not comment on specific student incidents as this might divulge confidential information.
“However, the new superintendent has requested a review of all protocols and procedures to ensure that all children are treated with dignity and respect,” Johnson said. “We take such matters very seriously and they will be addressed. The welfare of all students is of the utmost importance for SCPS.” Cody Cepeda/JB
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