The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has initiated an investigation into the Tumwater School District (TSD) in Washington state. This action follows a complaint filed by the Foundation Against Intolerance & Racism (FAIR) on behalf of a 15-year-old female student-athlete. The complaint alleges violations of Title IX, claiming that male athletes are being allowed to compete in girls' interscholastic athletics.
Craig Trainor, Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, stated, "OCR’s directed investigations of educational institutions, state boards of education, interscholastic associations, and school districts demonstrates that the Trump Education Department will vigorously enforce Title IX to ensure men stop competing in women’s sports." He emphasized that compliance with federal law is necessary for continued receipt of federal funds.
Monica Harris, Executive Director of FAIR, expressed support for the investigation: "FAIR is thrilled that the Department of Education is opening a Title IX investigation of Tumwater School District in Washington. All female student-athletes in Washington are entitled to feel safe in sports and enjoy a fair opportunity to compete."
The complaint details an incident where the student refrained from participating in a basketball game upon discovering a male player on the opposing team during warm-up. It claims TSD officials were aware but proceeded with the match citing Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) policy which permits athletes to play according to their gender identity. The complainant withdrew due to safety concerns and now faces an investigation by TSD for allegedly violating policies against bullying and harassment by misgendering.
Despite federal guidance from President Trump's February 5 Executive Order protecting students based on biological sex under Title IX, state officials have shown resistance. Superintendent Chris Reykdal instructed schools via email on February 6 to adhere to state laws allowing males to compete against females. Additionally, on February 27, TSD's Board supported amending WIAA policy to restrict participation in girls' sports categories based on biological sex.
State laws do not supersede federal antidiscrimination laws; hence TSD remains subject to Title IX as long as it receives federal funding.
