FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25,2024
Clovis Municipal Schools Clarifies Policies on Restroom Access
Clovis, NM – In response to questions and concerns from our community, Clovis Municipal Schools (CMS) would like to clarify our commitment to providing a respectful, safe, and supportive learning environment for all students, as well as explain the processes we follow to ensure nondiscriminatory access to facilities.
Under current federal law (Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution) and current state law (New Mexico Human Rights Act, expanded by House Bill 207 in 2023), New Mexico public school districts are required to make reasonable accommodations for students who identify with a gender other than their biological sex. This applies to all New Mexico public school facilities, including restrooms.
To meet this responsibility, CMS works with individual students and their families to offer private accommodations, including access to single-occupancy restrooms on every campus in an effort to protect privacy and to ensure a more comfortable environment for all students. The district provides options for any student - regardless of gender-related identity - who desires more privacy in school facilities.
During the 2023-2024 school year, the Facility Master Planning process identified priorities for facility improvements that align with both student needs and legal expectations. Included in the district's recently created Facilities Master Plan are restroom upgrades designed to enhance privacy and access for all students. Construction on these upgrades is set to begin in the near future, and once completed, will significantly increase the number of single-occupancy restroom facilities available across the district, helping to address concerns surrounding this important issue.
Despite recent misinformation, there is not widespread, indiscriminate restroom access for students across campuses. Each request for accommodation is managed thoughtfully and individually to support students’ needs and align with our legal obligations, which are designed to ensure equal protection and prevent discrimination.
As always, Clovis Municipal Schools remains committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment that respects the dignity and privacy of all students.