09/04/2026
Statement from the Kennewick School District Board of Directors:
The Kennewick School District Board of Directors is aware of the community discussion regarding gender-inclusive language recently shared. We want to provide clarity for our families, staff, and community.
The material being circulated on social media should not be interpreted as a new policy adopted by the Kennewick School District Board of Directors.
Washington state law requires school districts to include exact model student handbook language developed by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) regarding gender-inclusive schools. The District is required to comply with applicable state and federal law.
Compliance with those requirements should not be interpreted as an endorsement by the Board of every provision of the state's model language or the underlying state policy.
Our responsibility as a Board remains clear: every student deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and to attend a school that is safe and free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying.
We also recognize and respect the important role parents and families have in the lives and education of their children.
Transparency and meaningful parent involvement remain important priorities for our District.
We understand that families may have questions when state-required language appears in school materials without clear context.
We believe our community deserves to understand what is required by state law, what represents locally adopted District policy, and the difference between the two.
The Kennewick School District will continue to fulfill its legal obligations while supporting safe schools, transparency, parent involvement, and local decision-making.
-Kennewick School District Board of Directors
