LGBTQ+ students in Missouri’s public schools are entitled to learn in environments that are safe, inclusive, and free from discrimination. Federal laws – such as Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment – protect students based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
However, Missouri state law provides limited protections based on gender identity and sexual orientation. There is currently no Missouri statute that specifically says public schools may not discriminate against students based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
A lot depends on local school district policy: some districts may include clear protections for LGBTQ+ students. Others may not. You should check your specific school’s handbook or school board’s policies to understand what rules apply in your area.
In addition, the Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA) prohibits discrimination in certain areas (including employment, housing, and public accommodations, which covers schools) based on factors such as sex, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, and disability. However, the MHRA does not clearly list sexual orientation or gender identity as a protected class.
Please see the linked resources for more information:
