Lara Secl

“An Act relating to parental and guardian consent and information regarding the gender identity of students enrolled in a school district or charter school.” – House File 180

This year, House File 180 was enacted by the Iowa Education Appropriations Subcommittee on a 14-8 vote. The legislation prohibits teachers from calling students their preferred names and pronouns without parental knowledge and consent.  

This legislation was a direct response to the Linn-Mar Community School District’s Gender Support Plan which protected transgender students by allowing them to go by their preferred pronouns. Students and teachers were not required to inform parents of their students’ preferences. 

Having a bond between student and teacher makes the environment more comfortable and safe to learn in. 

“I had a guidance counselor in seventh grade,” non-binary sophomore Cal Loan said. “I told her about my new name and identity and she was supportive. But, she was required to tell my parents if I was to use my name in class.”

Names are a form of respect, hence the use of last names referring to most teachers.

“I do not let students call me by the first name,” Kennedy Principal Jason Kline said. ”So I can understand why it matters there are certain connotations and things that matter when it comes to a name. A name means a lot to some people and it means less to others. I think it’s important to be respectful to students.” 

Despite the abrupt change in policy and procedure, Kennedy continues to encourage and support its students.

“I think the way the district has responded to it is hopefully going to be as supportive as possible,” Kline said. “We want students if there is a challenge that’s happening in their lives that they can come to us and talk to us about it. We will do everything we can to be as supportive as possible.”