A Kansas teacher, Pamela Ricard, gained significant attention when she filed a lawsuit against her school district, Geary County Schools. The district had suspended her for three days due to her refusal to use a student’s preferred pronouns.

Ricard shared the details, mentioning that she faced consequences for referring to a student by their legal and enrolled last name, despite the student being biologically female. This information was reported by the New York Post.

While working at Fort Riley Middle School, Ricard was informed by a school counselor about a student who expressed a desire to use a different first name and preferred pronouns (he/him), even though they were biologically female.

Because of her religious convictions, Ricard decided to address the student as “Miss [legal/enrolled last name]” in order to handle the situation without using the student’s preferred first name, viewing it as a middle ground.

Despite the absence of a dedicated policy for this situation, Ricard found himself facing suspension and reprimand due to the school district’s comprehensive policies on staff bullying, as stated in the lawsuit. Following her suspension, a new policy was implemented, which mandates that teachers use the pronouns requested by students.

Ricard’s lawsuit contended that this policy contradicted her personal beliefs, as they were in line with traditional perspectives on human biology and gender. The lawsuit claimed: “Ms. Ricard firmly believes in the inherent binary nature of human beings, where each person’s sex is determined at conception and remains unalterable, irrespective of personal emotions, aspirations, or choices.”

After going through federal court proceedings, Ricard was ultimately granted $95,000, as reported by CBS News. Her attorneys highlighted her ability to effectively communicate with parents while staying true to her beliefs, ensuring that she respects the students’ biological sex when using pronouns.

In addition, the court also struck down the provision that prohibited staff from sharing students’ preferred names and pronouns with parents.

The school district has chosen not to provide any information regarding the matter, leaving the status of current policies in a state of uncertainty.

This settlement brings up concerns regarding the delicate balance between meeting students’ preferences and honoring the religious beliefs of educators. It serves as a reminder of the intricate nature of addressing matters concerning gender identity and religious freedom.