ACLU complaint alleges discrimination against LGBTQ+ students at Central Bucks School District
DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (CBS) -- The Central Bucks School District is under fire amid allegations of discrimination. The ACLU of Pennsylvania is representing several students who have accused the district of being hostile toward LGBTQ+ students, especially transgender students.
At Lenape Middle School, pride flags were removed from classrooms back in May.
Students also held a protest here because a teacher was reportedly suspended for helping a transgender student who was being harassed find resources outside the school district.
The ACLU of Pennsylvania filed a complaint with the Department of Justice on Thursday on behalf of seven students who claim the Central Bucks School District discriminates against LGBTQ+ students, especially those who identify as transgender.
Staff lawyer Rich Ting says some of the students represented in the complaint are being bullied because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
"At least one student is still afraid to eat in the lunchroom this school year," Ting said, "and had been eating lunch in the bathroom to escape from the harassment."
The ACLU is making these allegations after a five-month-long investigation, during which they interviewed dozens of including students, family members, staff and others.
The organization claims the district created a toxic learning environment by banning pride flags, cutting ties with nonprofits that promote inclusiveness, removing LGBTQ-themed books from the library and disciplining staff who speak out against transphobic policies.
"Two schools, at the beginning of the school year, announced a policy forbidding teachers of using preferred names and pronouns without parental consent," Ting said, "so it's a combination of all of these things that are exacerbating this hostile environment."
In a statement, the Central Bucks School superintendent says: "We believe it is paramount that all students and teachers are cared for and respected as members of our learning and teaching community. With regard to today's filing, we do not comment on legal matters."
Marion Adams says her son, a ninth grader at Lenape Middle School, identifies as gay.
She wants him to feel safe and accepted.
"I hope they resolve it," Adams said. "I really hope they resolve it because he gets a great education here. I'm just worried about the social aspect of it."
The ACLU wants the U.S. Department of Justice and other federal agencies to open an investigation and order the school district to enact policies that prevent discrimination.
Click here to read the complaint.
