Investigation into Alleged School Incidents in Denver and Washington

The U.S. Department of Education announced an investigation into allegations involving a Denver school district teacher who reportedly required same-sex students to kiss in front of a class. Additionally, a school district in Washington is under scrutiny for displaying testosterone bottles during Pride Month.

The investigation will assess whether the Bethel School District, located about an hour south of Seattle, and Denver Public Schools violated a federal law allowing parents to opt their children out of school evaluations on topics like sexual behavior or attitudes.

Frank Miller, director of the Student Privacy Policy Office at the Department of Education, emphasized the importance of parental decision-making in intimate matters affecting children. Denver schools spokesperson Scott Pribble noted that the district is finalizing a response but has not provided further comments.

In a statement, the Bethel School District mentioned testosterone vials were displayed at Graham-Kapowsin High School in June without administrative approval. These were promptly removed and handed to Pierce County police. Testosterone is prescribed for gender-affirming care. The district commits to fully cooperating with the investigation.

Both districts operate in Democrat-led states. Former President Donald Trump’s administration opened numerous investigations into schools accommodating transgender and LGBTQ+ students, targeting districts allowing students to use restrooms aligning with their gender identities.

The Trump administration accused Denver schools last year of breaching Title IX protections against sex discrimination due to similar restroom policies. Furthermore, officials have pressured schools keeping student gender identity information confidential from parents, alleging federal privacy law violations.

The Department of Education linked the current investigations with National Parents’ Day, observing that important actions concerning parental rights laws will be announced throughout the week.

The Bethel district’s display reportedly contained vials with an “unknown liquid,” according to their statement. It’s uncertain if the liquid was confirmed as testosterone. District spokesperson Doug Boyles directed inquiries to Pierce County police. An email to police spokesperson Carly Cappetto remains unanswered.

The district is revising exhibit supervision protocols to ensure school materials strictly adhere to educational standards and community expectations. Their primary focus remains a safe, respectful, and focused learning environment for all students.

The Associated Press journalist Collin Binkley in Washington D.C. contributed to this report.

This story was translated from English by an AP editor with the assistance of a generative AI tool.