In a decision that has left many transgender students feeling exposed and invalidated, the Sixth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled this week that the Olentangy Local School District in Ohio cannot enforce a policy requiring students to use classmates’ preferred gender pronouns.
The case began in 2023, when the suburban Columbus school district adopted guidelines encouraging students to respect peers’ pronouns and prohibiting language that could be considered insulting, demeaning, or dehumanizing toward someone’s gender identity. Supporters of the policy argued it was a necessary measure to protect transgender youth from harassment and exclusion.
But in a divided decision issued November 6, 2025, the appeals court found that the district “fell far short” of showing that punishing students for using incorrect pronouns would cause a material disruption to school activities. As a result, school officials cannot discipline students for referring to transgender classmates by their biological pronouns if they choose.
Impact on Transgender Students
For transgender students, being addressed by incorrect pronouns is not a simple mistake. It can feel like a denial of identity and a reminder that they are not seen for who they truly are. Research has repeatedly shown that persistent misgendering contributes to distress, isolation, and anxiety. With this ruling, many fear that the protections meant to ensure their safety and dignity have been weakened.
Educators and advocates warn that the decision could make it harder for schools to intervene when a student consistently refuses to recognize a peer’s gender identity. The court’s opinion states that using someone’s biological pronouns does not automatically qualify as bullying, as long as it does not cause a significant disruption.
A Divided Decision
Judge Eric Murphy, writing for the majority, stated, “Our society continues to debate whether biological pronouns are appropriate or offensive. The school district may not skew this debate by forcing one side to change the way it conveys its message or by compelling it to express a different view.”
In her dissent, Judge Jane Stranch cautioned that social norms around pronouns have evolved and that schools should not equate disbelief in transgender identity with a right to disregard it. She wrote that failing to affirm a student’s identity can have serious consequences for mental health and inclusion.
The Bottom Line
The ruling does not mean schools cannot address harassment, intimidation, or threats. However, it limits their ability to discipline students solely for using incorrect pronouns, leaving transgender students in a more vulnerable position.
Advocates say the decision underscores the need for stronger anti-harassment policies, staff training, and clearer state laws to protect transgender youth in schools. They argue that respect for pronouns is not about political debate but about affirming a student’s humanity.
For transgender students, being called by the correct pronouns can make the difference between feeling safe or unsafe, accepted or rejected. As Ohio and other states reassess their policies, educators and allies will need to find new ways to ensure that every student is treated with respect and dignity, no matter who they are.
