Community groups are demanding action after a young trans student was excluded from an active shooter safety drill because teachers couldn't determine "which locker room would be appropriate for her".
The incident took place at a middle school in Stafford in the American state of Virginia. It was intended to prepare students and teachers for a possible mass shooting. However, once it came to the students being sectioned into separate locker rooms, the trans student, whose name hasn't been released, was left "exposed and vulnerable" on a nearby bench seat.
Local LGBTIQ+ organisation Equality Stafford took to social media to express their frustration.
“During an event that prepares children to survive an attack by actual assailants, she was treated as if she was so much of a danger to peers that she was left exposed and vulnerable,” the group wrote in a Facebook post.
The group then encouraged concerned members of the community to turn up to the school's next board meeting.
"Let’s come together as a community and show the school board that Stafford is ready to protect our LGBTQ students and staff," they wrote.
"With a new superintendent, we need to introduce ourselves and show that these are important issues. Speakers are welcomed as are those who want to stand in solidarity. If you would just like to come out and support, please feel free to bring a sign, a flag, or wear purple."
Stafford County Schools spokeswoman Sherrie Johnson told local news network the school board had “requested a review of all protocols and procedures to ensure that all children are treated with dignity and respect.”
“We take such matters very seriously and they will be addressed,” Johnson continued.
“The welfare of all students is of the utmost importance for SCPS.”
