Feds demand WA revise student policies on privacy, transgender rights

July 31, 2026 - 09:18

Washington state's top education official is pushing back against a federal demand to rewrite student policies, calling it an overreach and a waste of public money. State Superintendent Chris Reykdal criticized the U.S. Department of Education's request as a "lengthy fishing expedition on the taxpayer's dime," according to remarks made on Tuesday.

The federal agency has asked the state to revise its guidelines on student privacy and transgender rights, arguing that current rules may conflict with federal law. The demand comes after a review of state policies that the department says could leave schools out of compliance with Title IX and other regulations. Specifically, federal officials want clearer protocols on how schools handle gender identity records, bathroom access, and parental notification.

Reykdal, however, sees the move as an intrusion into local decision-making. He argued that Washington's policies are designed to protect all students, especially vulnerable groups, and that the federal request lacks concrete evidence of harm. "Our schools are not the problem here," he said. "We have worked with families and educators to create safe, inclusive environments. This demand reads like a checklist from an ideological playbook, not a genuine effort to improve student outcomes."

The dispute highlights a growing rift between state education leaders and the Biden administration over transgender student rights. Several other states have faced similar federal reviews, but Washington is among the first to publicly reject the findings. Reykdal has not said whether the state will formally refuse to comply, but he hinted at legal challenges if the department pushes further.

The federal review process typically allows states to submit revised policies or explain why existing ones meet federal standards. Washington has until late next month to respond. In the meantime, school districts across the state are watching closely, as any change could affect how they handle student records and gender-related issues. Reykdal urged the public to weigh in, saying the debate should be about what is best for kids, not about political posturing.