Transgender students kicked off school bus for refusing to sit with girls

Two Transgender high school students are kicked off a school bus for sitting with boys on the bus.

Students on the South Glens Falls Central School District bus were instructed by the driver to sit on opposite sides of the aisles by gender.

Two Transgender students who identify as male chose to sit with the boys, but the driver ordered them to move and sit with the girls.

When the students refused and remained in their seats, the driver ordered them to get off the bus. Student Leo Washington said, "We kept trying to explain to him the situation about our gender identity and situation and he was saying he didn't care." "This is his bus, said student Aaren Sweenor, "And he's not starting the bus until he gets what he wants."

After they were kicked off the bus, the students had to wait for another bus to take them home. Students notified school administrators about the incident. The superintendent issued a statement saying the district does not tolerate any form of discrimination against students.

Superintendent of Schools Michael Patton said “All students need to feel safe and supported when they are in our classrooms, on our school property or riding in our school buses. We will continue to train and educate all of our students and adults about protecting the rights and needs of all students."

School officials say they have met with the bus driver. Officials also say gender sensitivity training will be scheduled for all staff.