Joseph Shelton Announces Opposition to Policy ACA, Advocates for Student Safety and Inclusivity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Colorado Springs, CO – January 30, 2025 – Joseph Shelton, candidate for the Colorado Springs

School District 11 Board of Education has announced firm opposition to Policy ACA, which the district 11 Board of Education will be considering next week. This policy undermines the safety and well-being of students, particularly transgender and non-binary youth, by requiring parental notification and approval before a student can use their chosen name in school.

House Bill 24-1039 (HB24-1039, Non-Legal Name Changes), which was drafted and

championed by former Representative Stephanie Vigil, Representative Brianna Titone, Senator Faith Winter, and Senator Janice Marchman, was created to ensure that students can have their chosen name respected while in school. This bill was necessary because, across the community, there has been an alarming focus on targeting transgender individuals through harmful policies and legislation. HB24-1039 offers protection to students who may not have a supportive advocate at home, ensuring their identity is affirmed in an environment where they spend the majority of their time.

As currently written, Policy ACA would require school staff to call a student's parent or guardian and obtain signed consent before allowing the student to use their chosen name. This policy forces students into a painful dilemma: either come out to their family—risking potential rejection, abuse, or homelessness—or be forced to use a name that does not align with their identity.

According to The Trevor Project, 28% of LGBTQ+ youth have reported experiencing

homelessness or housing instability at some point in their lives. These youth face significantly increased risks of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide attempts compared to those with stable housing. Schools should serve as safe spaces where students are supported and protected, not as institutions that put them in harm’s way.

“Our school board’s first responsibility is to protect students, ensuring they feel welcome and

valued in their learning environment,” said Shelton. “Policy ACA does the opposite by putting vulnerable students at risk. No student should have to choose between their safety at home and their right to be recognized for who they are.”

Shelton calls on the Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education to reject Policy ACA and instead prioritize policies that foster inclusivity, safety, and respect for all students.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Joseph Shelton

Joseph@SheltonforD11.com

719-290-0440