The Trump administration announced plans to pursue enforcement action against Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, potentially withholding federal funding due to policies restricting staff from informing parents about a student's transgender identity. The Education Department cited violations of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), alleging the district’s practices obstruct parental access to education records.
According to officials, the district’s policy mandates that staff avoid disclosing information related to a student’s transgender status or gender nonconforming presentation, even to parents. The administration emphasized collaboration with the Justice Department to enforce accountability through legal measures and funding consequences. “This deliberate breach of federal law undermines parents’ rights,” stated Frank Miller, Director of the Student Privacy Policy Office. “A coordinated response will ensure compliance with legal standards.”
The Education Department highlighted the district’s refusal to address prior violations outlined in a proposed resolution agreement. This marks part of a broader initiative targeting districts nationwide over similar policies. Earlier this year, four Kansas school districts, including Kansas City, faced allegations of FERPA violations related to transgender student policies.
Separately, President Donald Trump issued an executive order prohibiting transgender women and girls from participating in girls’ and women’s sports. The U.S. Supreme Court recently upheld state laws allowing such restrictions, permitting but not mandating their adoption across jurisdictions.
