Oxford schools do the right thing for transgender equality

Despite its lefty reputation, Massachusetts does not clearly protect transgender people from employment discrimination (and we should, in the next legislative session).

That's why it's great to see a school system doing the right thing on its own. Correspondent Ellie Oleson wrote this story for today's Worcester Telegram & Gazette, about the efforts of the Oxford Public Schools to ease the way for a transgender employee. A joint letter from the school superintendent and principal says to parents:

Our night custodian has informed us of his decision to change his gender and, as we begin the school year, he will begin living and working as a woman. He has been a valued employee of the Oxford Public Schools for many years, and we expect his exemplary performance to continue as he changes gender roles.

Superintendent Ernest Boss went on to tell the Telegram:

We won’t tolerate prejudice. We teach our kids understanding and tolerance.

We hope the whole state will follow the Oxford schools' lead.