The Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides guidance for teachers and staff on how to support transgender and gender-nonconforming students. It starts by defining important terms and explaining the laws that protect these students. The document covers topics like using bathrooms, playing sports, and dress codes, and says that students should be allowed to choose based on their gender identity. If a student is going through a gender transition, the guidance recommends that schools work with parents and staff to support younger students, but for older students, contacting parents might not always be safe. Teachers and staff are told not to share any private information about a student’s gender identity, whether or not the student is open about it. T o help teachers better understand these issues, the document suggests schools offer training, such as including it in anti-bullying or health education programs. Schools are also encouraged to update...