We suggested the Gardner Edgerton School Board proceed with kindness when it comes to making decisions about where its transgender students use bathrooms and locker rooms and how teachers address students with preferred pronouns.
It’s refreshing to see that while no decisions have been made yet, the board is taking its time to consider all sides on the issues. Emotions run high on both sides of this subject, but whatever decisions are drawn we believe they need to be made with the best interest of all students in mind.
It appears the board may be trying to do just that. District officials told the editorial board this week that it is developing surveys to solicit feedback from staff, and possibly students. “This information will be reviewed” by the board before making a final decision.
On top of that, the board expects to hear more from the school community during its meeting in October. That’s when it intends to vote on a final plan, unless the board needs more information, officials said.
District officials are not saying which way they are leaning, but said the feedback board members get could change the proposal already on the table.
Given a contentious recent school board meeting — flooded by parents, students and members of the Johnson County community — the board is wise to look more closely at the proposal and community members’ comments.
No decision will please everyone. But we continue to believe a policy weighted in kindness and a sincere desire to support students will be the best course.
