**Oklahoma Mother Files Lawsuit Against School District After Daughter “Severely Beaten” by Transgender Student in Girl’s Bathroom**
A shocking incident in Oklahoma led to a mother suing Edmond Public Schools after her daughter was allegedly horrifically beaten in the girls’ restroom by a transgender student. The lawsuit claims that the district didn’t enforce state law mandating students to use bathrooms corresponding to their birth certificate’s sex, thus putting her daughter at risk.
At Edmond Memorial High School on October 26, 2022, a 15-year-old girl identified as “E.G.” was allegedly assaulted by a 17-year-old transgender student violating a state law, signed in May 2022, that requires students to use restrooms aligned with their birth sex. Governor Kevin Stitt also signed a law requiring transgender students unwilling to comply with the rule to use single-occupancy restrooms or changing rooms. The incident left the young girl with severe physical and mental injuries, as well as emotional distress, according to legal documents obtained by The New York Post.
The lawsuit filed by Theresa Gooden reportedly contends that the alleged attacker, who was assigned male at birth, had confided this information to her daughter prior to the assault. E.G. then informed Assistant Principal Maryjel Cochrane, but the lawsuit alleges that no action was taken. Additionally, it states that the district was aware of the student’s transgender status at the time of the attack but did nothing in response.
However, the school claims they were unaware of the student’s transgender status, as they had enrolled just days before the incident, and parents aren’t required to produce birth certificates during enrollment. Now, Gooden is seeking over $75,000 in damages and reimbursement of her legal fees from the school district.
This distressing event demonstrates the importance of properly enforcing state law and raises questions about school district policies and potential consequences for students and their families. Clear communication and a focused strategy are essential in maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
**Enforcing State Law Crucial to Safeguarding Students in Oklahoma Public Schools — Unresolved Issues Demand Urgent Action**
