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Emporia Today
By the People, for the People
Emporia School District to Comply with Kansas 'Bathroom Bill' Mandate
USD 253 says it will not enact any additional policies beyond the state requirements
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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USD 253 Emporia will be adhering to new mandates regarding the use of restrooms and like spaces within district facilities following the passage of Senate Bill 244, also known as the 'bathroom bill,' last week. However, USD 253 Superintendent Dr. David McGehee says the district will not be enacting any new policies or procedures outside of the scope of said mandates.
Why it matters
The new 'bathroom bill' legislation has sparked controversy, with opponents claiming it directly targets the transgender population and violates their rights. The Emporia school district's response highlights the challenges districts face in balancing state mandates with concerns for student safety and inclusion.
The details
McGehee stated the district will not be instituting new policies meant to force compliance by individuals, nor will it be actively tracking student movements or facility usage. The district will investigate any complaints or concerns and take steps to ensure compliance, but will not be taking any disciplinary actions. McGehee also stated the district will not be taking any steps to identify students' gender or identity, saying they will comply with the mandate, but 'not be the sheriff.'
- Senate Bill 244, also known as the 'bathroom bill,' went into effect almost immediately after the legislature overrode the governor's veto last week.
- The new signage indicating students and staff must use facilities according to their birth-assigned gender will be placed on district facilities effective Thursday.
The players
Dr. David McGehee
Superintendent of USD 253 Emporia.
Jami Reever
USD 253 board member who spoke out in opposition to the new legislation.
Lyndel Landgren
USD 253 Community Relations Director.
Laura Kelly
Kansas Governor who previously vetoed Senate Bill 244.
Kansas Legislature
Overrode Governor Kelly's veto of Senate Bill 244.
What they’re saying
“Nothing matters more than ensuring that every student we serve feels safe, valued and supported at school.”
— Dr. David McGehee, Superintendent, USD 253 Emporia (KVOE News)
“I fear for the safety and well-being of transgender students and residents as a result of its institution.”
— Jami Reever, USD 253 Board Member (KVOE News)
“Whatever decisions are made, I hope they are done so with 'humanity' in mind.”
— Jami Reever, USD 253 Board Member (KVOE News)
What’s next
The USD 253 Board of Education will next convene on Wednesday, March 11 at 6 pm inside the Mary Herbert Education Center, where they may discuss further actions regarding the implementation of Senate Bill 244.
The takeaway
The Emporia school district's response to the new 'bathroom bill' mandate highlights the difficult balance districts must strike between complying with state laws and ensuring the safety and inclusion of all students. While the district will follow the letter of the law, it remains committed to supporting its students and providing resources to those who may be negatively impacted.
