Covington Schools adopt state mandates on gender identity and sexual orientation

The Covington Independent Schools Board of Education voted Monday night to adopt new state mandates included in Kentucky's Senate Bill 150.

The policies focus on gender identity, expression, and sexual orientation. One mandate bars school faculty from discussing LGBTQ+ issues with students and including them in lesson plans. The other prevents trans students from using school restrooms, locker rooms, or showers that align with their sexual identity.

Three of the five board members, including Board President Tom Haggard, voted to approve the mandates. Board member Kareem Simpson was the only one to vote against adopting the policies. Hannah Edelen, who joined the board this year, abstained.

In previous meetings, board members had expressed their disapproval of the mandates, saying they go against the will of the local community and would put the district at odds with federal law.

After the vote, Haggard shared his thoughts and explained what the mandates will mean for Covington students.