Board adopts policy updates reverting to 2020 Title IX rules; public and trustee debate precedes vote

The Galt Joint Union Elementary School District board approved a package of updated district policies and administrative regulations that the district said align with the 2020 Title IX regulations. The motion carried 4–0 with one abstention.

Veronica Kaufman, who identified herself as a 15‑year Galt resident and member of several district advisory bodies, urged the board to oppose the item, saying the changes “roll back any Title IX protections for students that are already vulnerable” and asking the board to “vote no on item 242647.” Board members and staff said the updates reflect guidance from the California School Boards Association (CSBA) and recent federal developments related to the Tennessee v. Cardona litigation.

A trustee raised a procedural and conscience question on whether certain nondiscrimination provisions—specifically religion and gender identity—could create conflicts with sincerely held religious beliefs and whether a trustee could vote for the package while reserving objections. Another trustee noted the board had tabled some earlier proposed changes while waiting for court developments and that many districts are now reversing prior adoptions to align with current law.

Board President Catherine Harper moved to approve the policy package; Wesley Cagle seconded. The motion passed with four ayes (Harper, Raboy, Ward, Cagle) and one abstention (Annette Coonsie). The district said CSBA prepared the recommended updates “to align with the current law.”

Less critical details: staff confirmed the updates were largely CSBA recommendations and noted the district had delayed prior adoptions while courts considered the issue.