Rhode Island School District Passes Transgender Bathroom Policy

Cumberland is the first public school district in the state of Rhode Island to have a formal policy that lets students use a restroom that corresponds with their gender identity.

The Providence Journal reports that the School Committee voted on Thursday to approve the policy after months of research by the district's director of special education.

Students who don't want to use a gender-specific bathroom will now be offered an alternative, such as the nurse's bathroom.

Parents will be notified by email and students and staff will be educated on the policy.

Mark Fiorillo is a school committee member who chaired the policy subcommittee. He says the thoughtful discussion that led to the decision has reinvigorated his belief in holding elected office.