Supporting Gender Expansive Students: Guidance for Schools

Cover Image of Guidance with blue background and various gender identity pride flags waving

In January of 2023, the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) proudly published Supporting Gender Expansive Students: Guidance for Schools. This guidance is grounded in the recognition, respect, affirmation, friendship, joy, belonging, and safety every human deserves - including the students, staff, and families that make-up our school communities.

Developed in partnership with students, families, school districts, community-based organizations, and state agency partners, this guidance is grounded in the civil rights of students to be free from gender identity-based discrimination when pursuing their education. This guidance provides assistance to districts in fostering educational environments that are safe, free from discrimination, and aligned with state and federal laws.

Alongside the guidance, ODE is releasing a set of supplemental resources aligned to the strategies and recommendations outlined in the LGBTQ2SIA+ Student Success Plan. These documents outline recommendations, best practices, and resources for districts to consider as they develop policies and programming to support gender expansive students. At the request of students and community members, there are also student- and family-facing resource documents that outline the support that can be requested and affirmed within Oregon public schools and communities.

This guidance is not legal advice, nor should it be relied on as legal advice. If you require legal advice regarding the issues discussed in these guidelines, please consult an attorney.

2025 Updates

ODE is in the process of updating the 2023 Guidance to ensure districts have the most up-to-date and accurate information about nondiscrimination requirements and best practices. During this revision process, ODE will release individual section updates as soon as they are available below. When all necessary updates are complete, ODE will republish the full guidance on the same webpage with the latest revision date.