A Brevard student's fight to use their chosen name at school has entered its second year without resolution from the Brevard County Public Schools district. The dispute began in October 2023 when the student's family requested the school honor their child's chosen name, a request the district initially denied. The family has since filed multiple appeals and sought legal counsel, but no agreement has been reached. 'We’re still waiting for the district to take a clear position,' said a family member, who asked not to be named. 'This isn’t just about a name—it’s about respect.'
The school district has cited internal policies requiring students to use names listed on official records, which the student’s family says are outdated. District officials declined to comment publicly but referred inquiries to a spokesperson, who stated in a written statement that 'all students are treated with dignity and respect, and we remain committed to addressing concerns through established channels.' The family argues the policy violates the student’s rights under state law, which allows students to use chosen names in schools. 'They’re not following the law,' the family member said. 'It’s been a year, and nothing has changed.'
The student, who is enrolled at a middle school in Palm Bay, has faced bullying and social isolation, according to the family. They claim the school has failed to provide accommodations, such as updating the student’s records or allowing the use of the chosen name in classrooms and communications. 'The school hasn’t done anything to support our child,' the family member said. 'It’s like they’re ignoring the problem.'
The dispute has drawn attention from local advocates, who say it highlights gaps in how schools handle transgender and nonbinary students. A similar case in Titusville was resolved in 2022 after a lawsuit forced the district to update policies. 'This is preventable,' said one advocate, who requested anonymity. 'Schools need clearer guidelines to protect students’ rights.' The family plans to file another appeal in the coming weeks, but for now, the student continues to navigate the situation without resolution.