Each June, schools hang rainbow flags and celebrate Pride Monthbut without inclusive data systems, many non-binary students remain invisible in the places where they learn.
This invisibility has real consequences. A recent executive order by President Donald Trump declared that there are only two genders, reinforcing a political movement that seeks to erase trans and non-binary people from public life, including schools.
This erasure is already happening. Nationwide, about 5% of young people identify as non-binary. But in Massachusetts, a state known for progressive values, fewer than 0.2% of students are officially recognized as non-binary in education data.
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Why? Because school systems typically rely on the gender marker parents selected when a child enrolled in kindergartenunless its later changed through formal processes. That static system prevents districts from tracking how non-binary students experience school and whether theyre being supported.
Components of school culture
Some school districts are trying to fix this. In our recent study of school climate survey data from 38 Massachusetts schools, we found that when students were given the option to self-identify their gender, non-binary students consistently reported worse experiences than their peersparticularly when it came to measures related to school culture, suxh as emotional safety, sense of belonging and relationships with teachers.
Understanding these patterns helps schools respond more effectively and inclusively.
But these efforts are under attack. So-called parents rights groups, such as Parents Defending Education and Moms for Liberty, are targeting districts that allow gender-inclusive surveys. In one Massachusetts case, special interest actors targeted a district for including a non-binary gender option.
Elsewhere, lawsuits and political pressure have led to survey rollbacks, often at enormous financial and emotional cost. A recent national report estimates that disruption campaigns can cost school districts over $800,000 annually.
The stakes are even higher for students. In 2023, one in four non-binary youth attempted suicide. These young people are more likely to experience bullying, isolation, and mental health challenges.
But they are also more likely to thrive when schools acknowledge their identities. Research shows that non-binary students in gender-affirming environments are less likely to consider suicide.
Non-binary students’ needs
In a world driven by data, it is increasingly difficult to advocate for those who are erased from datasets. School leaders cant support students they cant see.
Inclusive data collection allows schools to track climate, tailor interventions, and measure progress. But districts shouldnt have to stand alone. States must take the lead.
State departments of education can mandate the inclusion of non-binary identities in student surveys and other data tools. Doing so would protect districts from political backlash by making inclusion a matter of compliance.
It would also generate a more accurate statewide picture of student needsdata that can inform policy and advocacy, even in states where local districts arent yet ready to act.
During a time when national politics are hostile to LGBTQ+ youth, and especially non-binary youth, states can chart a different course. By requiring inclusive data practices, they can send a powerful message: Non-binary students matter, and they deserve to be seen, supported and safe.
