MB%20Board%20Resolution%2024.25.9%20%20WIAA%20Rules%20and%20Equal%20Participation.pdf

Parent document: School Board Meeting_ Study Session-03-27-2025.pdf

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Wourl. bunt Lenker Board Resolution 24/25:9

SCHOOL DISTRICT

RESOLUTION ON WIAA RULES AND EQUAL PARTICIPATION

WHEREAS, the Mount Baker Board of Directors recognizes the critical importance of ensuring that
all students have access to participation in co-curricular activities, in full compliance with state and
federal law; and

WHEREAS, participation in co-curricular activities, including athletics, contributes to academic
success, personal growth, and a sense of belonging, benefiting students both in and beyond the
classroom; and

WHEREAS, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) governs policies related
to participation in athletics including boys’ and girls’ sports, and it is essential that these policies
align with legal protections, including Title IX, RCW 28A.642.080, and the Washington Law Against
Discrimination (WLAD, RCW 49.60.500), while maintaining fairness, consistency, and access for all
students; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 14201, issued on February 5, 2025, creates a potential conflict with
Washington state law, requiring school districts to carefully navigate compliance to avoid legal
challenges and potential loss of state or federal funding; and

WHEREAS, the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), which is
responsible for providing guidance to school districts in navigating federal and state legal conflicts,
recommends school districts uphold state laws until further notice.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mount Baker Board of Directors formally requests
that the WIAA establish or promote the establishment of an expert work group to review and
provide recommendations ensuring WIAA policies align with state and federal law and OSPI
guidance while upholding fair and consistent access to athletics for all students; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this work group shall include experts in education policy,
medicine, athletics, and legal compliance to ensure that WIAA rules continue to support access to
the benefits of participation for all students in a manner that reflects legal requirements and best
practices; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mount Baker Board of Directors will follow OSPI’s guidance
regarding the legal and policy implications of Executive Order 14201 and will ensure that any
district policies or practices comply with applicable and enforceable Washington state and federal
laws, including anti-discrimination protections.


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Wourl. bunt Lenker Board Resolution 24/25:9

SCHOOL DISTRICT

ADOPTED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS of the Mount Baker School District No. 507, Whatcom
County, Washington in a regular meeting thereof held on the 27‘ of March 2025.

MOUNT BAKER SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 507.
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON

Director Director
Director Director
ATTEST

Director Nick Perigo, Secretary