CYPRESS, TX – The Cy-Fair Independent School District board approved a gender identity policy Thursday night, requiring schools to notify parents if a student uses pronouns different from their biological sex. The “Parent Rights and Responsibilities” policy passed with a 5-1 vote, drawing many voices of support as well as criticism from students, families, and advocacy groups.
The new policy mandates parental written requests for students to use preferred pronouns and permits staff to decline accommodations based on “sincerely held beliefs.” Cy-Fair parents can submit a request to the district seeking accommodations for their child to use pronouns that align with their gender identity.
It also restricts extracurricular activities and instructional materials from promoting or supporting gender identity topics.
School restrooms, locker rooms, and overnight accommodations will remain restricted based on biological sex. Biologically male students will also be banned from participating in female sports.
The policy mirrors a similar measure in Katy ISD, which has prompted a federal investigation for possible Title IX violations.
The decision was met with mixed reactions. Proponents, like parent Julie Rix, praised the move as a necessary safeguard for parental rights. “To exclude parents from decisions about their children undermines the family structure. This policy ensures accountability and transparency,” Rix said.
Critics, including Harris County LGBT Commission member Kylie McNaught, argued the policy infringes on student rights. “This is not about parental rights; it’s about restricting children’s ability to express themselves,” McNaught said during the meeting.
Earlier in May, the Cy-Fair ISD board also voted 6-1 to remove 13 chapters from 25 textbooks slated for use in the 2024-25 school year. These chapters cover topics such as climate change, COVID-19, vaccines, and “the perception that humans are inherently harmful to the planet.”
