BROOKHAVEN, N.Y. — Bellport-area parents are raising concerns about locker-room arrangements involving the girls’ cross-country program at Bellport Middle School, saying students are sharing facilities with a transgender student.
The parent, whose name AUXIO.TV is withholding because the matter involves minors, said in a social-media post that families should be aware of the current locker-room arrangements and have an opportunity to raise questions or concerns.
According to the parent, the student participates on the girls’ cross-country team and uses the girls’ locker-room facilities.
The issue intersects with current New York State policy governing transgender students in public schools.
The New York State Education Department and Attorney General have said state law protects transgender students’ right to use school facilities, including restrooms and locker rooms, consistent with their gender identity. State officials have also said students cannot be required to use separate gender-neutral facilities solely because they are transgender.
The parent said the concern centers on whether families have enough information about locker-room arrangements and whether additional privacy options should be available for students who are uncomfortable.
New York schools are also required to maintain protections against discrimination and harassment based on gender identity or expression.
The situation has prompted discussion among local parents about student privacy, parental awareness and how schools balance competing concerns under state law.
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