Federal investigation into Portland schools over trans athlete policy

The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into Portland Public Schools. This follows concerns about a transgender athlete competing on a high school girls' track-and-field team. The investigation will examine whether this practice violates Title IX, a law that prohibits sex discrimination in education. The Trump administration aims to address issues affecting transgender students competing in sports. Recently, President Trump signed an executive order to restrict transgender athletes from girls' and women's sports. Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary for civil rights, emphasized that educational institutions receiving federal funding must follow anti-discrimination laws. He stated that no school should undermine the rights of women and girls. The investigation was prompted by a complaint regarding the district's policies and practices. Superintendent Kimberlee Armstrong affirmed that the district complies with Oregon state law. She noted that state laws may differ from federal guidelines. Armstrong expressed the district's commitment to supporting all students, particularly those who may be vulnerable. Portland Public Schools is cooperating fully with the Department of Education's investigation. Additionally, the federal agency is looking into issues in other school districts, including Denver public schools and the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association.