Regina Public Schools (RPS) will continue its policy allowing students to use bathrooms and changing rooms that align with their “gender identity,” despite ongoing debate with Premier Scott Moe’s government.
The policy, outlined in Administrative Procedure 353, has been in place for over a year and aligns with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Canadian Human Rights Act, and the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.
RPS Director of Education Mark Haarman emphasized the division’s commitment to student safety, privacy, and comfort.
“We’ve consulted with parents, staff, and students to ensure this policy reflects what our community wants,” Haarman told CBC News.
Haarman pointed out that they received feedback from within the school system, but it has been largely positive, with only a couple of complaints reported among 27,000 students and 3,500 staff.
The policy also includes provisions for gender-neutral washrooms and alternative options for students seeking additional privacy.
Haarman said that RPS has become a “provincial leader on the issue,” with other school divisions seeking advice from RPS on implementing their own bathroom and changing room policies.
“This isn’t just about policy. It’s about human rights,” said Haarman.
“We believe in creating safe, welcoming environments for all students.”
During the Saskatchewan election campaign, the Western Standard released an exclusive story about Balgonie Public School where two biological boys use the female changing room.
The bathroom and changing room policy remains publicly available on the RPS website.
