Parents Raise $125,000 to Sue Virginia School Over Harassment Case

The parents of two Virginia high school students who allegedly harassed a transgender classmate have successfully raised over the required $125,000 to initiate legal proceedings against the local school district. This action follows the suspension of the boys from Stone Bridge High School, where they expressed discomfort regarding a transgender student in the boys’ locker room.

The incident, which occurred in March 2023, escalated when a fellow student, assigned female at birth but identifying as male, recorded the boys voicing their concerns. The video surfaced publicly in May, prompting a federal investigation by Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS). The investigation concluded that the students were responsible for sexual harassment and sex-based discrimination.

The parents, Seth Wolfe and Renae Smith, have publicly criticized the school board’s actions, contending that their sons were simply questioning the presence of a “female student” in the boys’ locker room. The Washington Post reported that the school district maintains the transgender student had faced harassment previously because of their transition.

As reported by 7News, the lawsuit will argue against what the parents claim to be religious discrimination, violations of free speech, and sex discrimination affecting their sons. On October 10, 2023, U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema mandated that the parents post a $125,000 bond by October 15, 2023, ensuring that if LCPS prevails in the case, they can recover attorney fees from the bond.

The crowdfunding campaign to support their lawsuit exceeded its target, reaching nearly $130,000 by midday on October 12, 2023. The campaign’s statement emphasizes that LCPS has unfairly labeled the boys as sexual harassers and imposed suspensions, highlighting a broader issue of “fundamental freedom, privacy, and common sense for all families.”

In a subsequent update, the parents announced that the judge extended the bond deadline to October 17, 2023. They expressed gratitude for the “overwhelming” support received from the community. Speaking to Fox News, Seth Wolfe shared their commitment to fighting the case, stating, “They made it seem like they’re the problem for asking questions about why there’s a female in the boys’ locker room.”

Wolfe further explained that the administration had not provided adequate guidance on addressing gender identity, leading to confusion regarding the student’s status. He voiced concerns about the potential long-term impact of a Title IX violation on his son’s educational prospects. “That’s one of our major concerns,” he added.

In response to the ongoing legal situation, LCPS released a statement affirming its commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students. The district reiterated its policies against harassment, discrimination, and bullying, emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of every student.