Gender Options For School Forms

Beginning in the 2018 – 2019 school year, the Oregon Department of Education recognized three gender options: Female, Male, and X in all public schools.  This change is a step towards greater gender inclusivity by the state. The Oregon Legislature now recognizes a non-binary gender option on the Oregon Drivers License, Oregon Identification Cards, Oregon birth certificates, and public school forms.  

Gender X / Gender-Neutral Identification:  

Gender X is a gender-neutral term used to indicate a gender that is not exclusively male or female.  The X provides a third option for people with non-binary gender identifications and those wishing to not disclose.

Implications:

1. Registration forms for students will include the three gender options of Female, Male, and X options beginning in the fall of 2018.

2. Internal school and district forms will reflect this change.

3. Schools will continue to follow OSAA (Oregon School Activities Association) guidelines for sports registration and participation. (OSAA governance handbooks)

4. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and other privacy protections for students continue to apply.

5. School data collections will include Female, Male, and X options.

6. Existing staff and new hires are also extended this option.

Reference: Oregon Department of Education Executive Numbered Memo: 008-2017-18

House Bill 2673 (2017 Session)