The school had been kicked out of the state system for forfeiting a game against an opposing team with a transgender player.
The Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals has ruled that Mid Vermont Christian School may rejoin the state’s sports association after being barred for forfeiting a girls’ basketball game against a team with a transgender player. The court granted a preliminary injunction, saying the Vermont Principals’ Association (VPA) likely acted with hostility toward the school’s religious views. The school had cited concerns about player safety and fairness in its withdrawal from the 2023 game.
“We conclude that plaintiffs are likely to succeed in showing that the VPA’s expulsion of Mid Vermont was not neutral because it displayed hostility toward the school’s religious beliefs,” the appeals court wrote in their decision.
While a lower court upheld the state’s decision, the appellate panel found the punishment “overbroad and procedurally irregular.” The decision allows the Quechee-based private school to participate in athletic and academic events while the case proceeds.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For federal and appellate judges to be prudent in their rulings on First Amendment rights.
- For wisdom for both public and private school administrators and coaches as they seek to ensure the religious freedoms of students as well as their safety.
Sources: AP News, MSN
