Opinion: Gubernatorial candidate Semi Bird offers thoughts on gender-affirming care, school choice

Semi Bird speaks to a recent gathering in Clark County. Photo courtesy Leah Anaya

The candidate for Washington state governor has been at the forefront of advocating for policies that empower parents and prioritize educational excellence

Editor’s note – This commentary was submitted by the Bird For Governor Campaign.

Recent revelations about the availability of free hormone therapies for middle and high school students, without parental consent, have sparked widespread concern among parents, elected officials, and community members. Seattle Public Schools’ health centers have been offering “gender rearming care,” including hormone-blocking medications and referrals for sex change surgeries, to students. This development represents a troubling trend of excessive authority being granted to the state while marginalizing parental involvement in their children’s lives.

According to data, only 50.7% of students in Washington meet the educational standards for English and language arts with even fewer meeting math and science standards at 37.7% and 42.7%, respectively. Despite these educational challenges, the graduation rate remains relatively high at 82-83%. It is imperative to address these alarming statistics and refocus our efforts on providing quality education to all students.

Richland School Board director and candidate for Washington State Governor, Semi Bird, has been at the forefront of advocating for policies that empower parents and prioritize educational excellence. Bird has successfully led initiatives granting parents the right to determine mask choice and the ability to learn about controversial curriculum, with the option to opt out if desired. These policies recognize the vital role parents play in their children’s education and ensure their voices are heard.

“The prioritization of social indoctrination over education by the state reinforces the urgent requirement for school choice in Washington state,” said Semi Bird, adding, “The implementation of policies that exceed the boundaries of state authority and marginalize parental involvement should be a cause of concern for every parent, grandparent, and elected official. It is crucial that we work together to address this issue and safeguard the rights and well-being of our students.”

If elected as governor, Bird strongly advocates for and is fully dedicated to introducing school choice for parents in Washington. Furthermore, he firmly believes that the provision of hormone treatment without parental consent only serves to emphasize the imperative for a wider array of educational alternatives.
Semi Bird is a Republican candidate running governor of Washington state. With a strong focus on effective governance, economic growth, and uniting communities, Bird aims to bring about positive change and represent the interests of Washington state residents. Learn more about Semi Bird for Washington at www.birdforgovernor.com.