A high school in Shirley, Long Island, is in the middle of a heated discussion.  The issue?  A 14-year-old freshman, who is 6 feet tall, has joined the girls' varsity track team.  This student has socially transitioned to female.  This means the student is not on hormone treatment and still has male biological traits.  However, the student identifies as a girl.

The student started on the team in March.  Since then, the community has been split.  Some people support the student's participation.  Others argue that the student has an unfair advantage because of biological traits.  This debate has led to multiple rallies, both for and against the student's involvement on the team.

Some students on the team have shared their experiences.  One student mentioned that during practice, the trans student would run ahead of everyone else.  Other students said they would be uncomfortable sharing a locker room with the trans athlete.  The school has made some adjustments, like using a plastic sheet to separate the athlete from their female teammates in the locker room.

This controversy is not just about sports.  It also involves federal funding.  In February, the President signed an order.  This order stated that schools allowing trans athletes to play on teams based on their gender identity could lose federal funds.  The William Floyd School District could lose over $13 million if they follow this order.

The district is in a tough spot.  They have to decide between following federal law and allowing the student to compete.  Some parents have asked school officials to address the issue, but there has been no response yet.  The district has not commented on the matter.

This debate is not just happening in Long Island.  It's a national issue.  Some states, like New York and California, have laws protecting trans athletes.  Other states are facing similar controversies.  The outcome of this debate could have big implications for schools and students across the country.

A Young Athlete Sparks Big Debate

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