WIAA Gender Identity Participation

During the June 20, 2024 board meeting, the Lynden School District Board of Directors passed Resolution #09-24- WIAA for Fair, Safe, Nondiscriminatory Practice in Athletic & Extracurricular Activities, which directed Superintendent VanderYacht to engage in the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association’s (WIAA) amendment process to submit a proposal that will promote fairness in high school activities. Lynden submitted an amendment proposal to WIAA on October 7, 2024 with 13 other districts signed on as supporting schools.

Lynden- WIAA Amendment Proposal
Lynden- WIAA Amendment Proposal Attachment

Additionally, at the September 5th board meeting, the Lynden School District Board of Directors unanimously voted to send letters to WIAA and state legislators regarding the participation of transgender athletes. The letters request support in changing the WIAA participation policy for transgender athletes to provide clear guidance on participation in school sports with the goal of upholding fairness in competition while protecting the rights and dignity of all students. Copies of the letters can be viewed below.

Letter to Senator Sharon Shewmake– September 5, 2024
Letter to Representative Joe Timmons– September 5, 2024
Letter to Representative Alicia Rule- September 5, 2024
Letter to WIAA– September 5, 2024