Feds launch Topeka Public Schools transgender policy investigation

TOPEKA (KSNT) – The federal government said it’s investigating Topeka Public Schools and three other Kansas school districts for potential Title IX investigations, the U.S. Department of Education announced Thursday.

The education department said the investigations come after a complaint that the district permits students to participate in sports and access intimate facilities based on gender identity and prevents school workers from disclosing a student’s transgender status to parents without the student’s consent. The Defense of Freedom Institute, a DC nonprofit, filed the complaint.

“These policies and practices potentially violate Title IX,” the education department said in a news release.

Shawnee Public Schools, Olathe Public Schools and Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools are also under investigation.

“The Kansas districts’ alleged behavior of allowing gender ideology to run amok in their schools is an affront not only to the law, but to the sound judgment we expect from our educational leaders. School personnel should not confuse and unsettle young girls by forcing them to share sex-separated sports and intimate facilities with boys; nor should school personnel abuse their position of authority by hiding sensitive information pertaining to a child’s health and wellbeing from that child’s parents,” U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said in a news release. “From day one, the Trump Administration promised to protect students and parents by restoring Title IX and parental rights laws to the fullest extent of the law. My offices will vigorously investigate these matters to ensure these practices come to an end.” 

The U.S. Department of Education said districts could risk losing federal funding if they are found in violation of federal law.

27 News requested an interview with the Topeka Public Schools superintendent about the matter. The request was not acknowledged, but district spokesman Aarion Gray provided the following statement:

“Topeka Public Schools recognizes the importance of parental rights and understands that student success is best achieved when families are actively involved in their child’s education. We are committed to working in partnership with parents, keeping them informed and engaged in all decisions that impact their student’s educational experience. Our district remains dedicated to ensuring that families are fully supported, valued and involved every step of the way.”

Kansas attorney general Kris Kobach issued notices to six school districts in 2023 over the policies he takes issue with. Two of the districts revised or rescinded the policies.

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