The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has initiated an investigation into Portland Public Schools and the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) over alleged Title IX violations. The investigation was prompted by claims that a male track athlete was allowed to compete in a girls' track and field event on March 19, 2025, and use the girls' locker room.
A complaint filed with OCR led to this investigation into the District. OCR also informed OSAA, which governs the Portland Interscholastic League, about an investigation into its "gender identity participation" policy that may conflict with Title IX.
"We will not allow the Portland Public Schools District or any other educational entity that receives federal funds to trample on the antidiscrimination protections that women and girls are guaranteed under law," stated Craig Trainor, Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights. "President Trump and Secretary McMahon have been steadfast in their commitment to protect the rights of women and girls. OCR will use every lawful means to ensure that no female athlete is denied equal athletic opportunities or robbed of her rightful accolades."
The complaint against the District and OSAA alleges they permitted a male athlete from Leodis V. McDaniel High School in Portland to compete in girls' events for two consecutive seasons. In 2024, this athlete reportedly won both the girls’ 200-meter and 400-meter dashes at a championship event, repeating similar victories this year.
OSAA’s policy allows students to participate according to their consistently asserted gender identity while ensuring safety for all students. However, OCR maintains that federal antidiscrimination law supersedes state regulations.
The investigation falls under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs or activities.
