A middle school in San Diego has become the center of local controversy due to a transgender student using the girls’ locker room. On Tuesday, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted against a proposal aimed at implementing the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which would restrict transgender athletes from competing in girls’ sports or accessing girls’ locker rooms. The proposal was introduced by Vice Chair Jim Desmond during a Board of Supervisors meeting, but it received no support from other supervisors. Desmond remarked that many attendees had already formed their opinions on the matter, noting that the audience was largely composed of mothers concerned about the fairness and safety of allowing biological males in girls’ sports. He estimated that the crowd was roughly 60% in favor of allowing transgender participation, but he believed that the majority of San Diego County residents oppose males competing in women’s sports.
During the meeting, several parents voiced their concerns about their daughters sharing locker rooms with biological males. San Elijo Middle School, where the controversy is occurring, issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to following state law, which mandates that public school districts in California act in accordance with the California Education Code. The school affirmed its dedication to treating all students with dignity, respect, and fairness, in line with state protections and anti-discrimination laws.
Recently, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “No Men in Women’s Sports,” which threatens to cut federal funding for educational institutions that permit biological males to compete with girls and women. However, several states, including California, have stated they will not comply with this order. California public schools receive approximately $16.8 billion annually, which constitutes a significant portion of public school funding. The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) confirmed that it will continue to adhere to state law, allowing athletes to participate based on their gender identity, emphasizing the importance of providing students with opportunities to belong, connect, and compete in educational settings.
