Letter to the editor: Let us lead with respect

Recent discussions in Rochester concern me, both as a former RMS student and a trans person. Particularly, two topics which have become wrongfully muddled into one.

First: School discipline. It’s ALWAYS kept confidential, as is the law. We do know, from Mr. Rivera’s Title IX complaint, that several remedies were offered and turned down. Additionally, any behavioral concerns have nothing to do with the gender of a child.

Second: Bathrooms. It is Massachusetts law that students can use the bathroom corresponding to their gender. Per a statement released by the Governor and Attorney General on September 23, 2025: “These laws protect the right to use facilities and participate in athletic programs consistent with one’s gender identity.” I’ve seen claims online that it’s not possible for a young person to be trans, but in fact, a Princeton study showed that 97.5% of youth who socially transition are still happy with their choice 5 years later.

I am worried for both girls at the center of this local firestorm. Reaching national news, trying to remove several publicly elected officials…this has been blown greatly out of proportion. I can only imagine the stress and trauma for these children. The RMS and ORR administrations have done the lawful and moral thing by protecting the rights and privacy of their students. I hope all will be resolved soon, and that our community can remind ourselves of the basics around respect and dignity for all people – regardless of our understanding of them.

Alia Cusolito

Rochester