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Affirmed Names and Pronouns
- PRISM Inc.
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 7
New year, new schedule, new... school policies to decode? The start of the school year is stressful enough without deciphering confusing district policy. At PRISM, we believe every student deserves to be seen as their authentic self, and it starts with navigating name and pronoun changes smoothly.
We’ve put together a guide for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach schools, with all the forms, policies, and even a ready-to-send email template – because supporting students shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle.
What’s the same in all districts?
According to state law, schools cannot force teachers or students to use someone’s affirmed pronouns. However, teachers still have the option to use a student’s affirmed pronouns.
Parents must give permission for a student to use a different name at school (except Miami-Dade students over the age of 18).
Affirmed names can be used in school systems and non-legal documents after written consent is given by a parent or legal guardian.
Legal names and gender stay the same unless changed by a court order or updated birth certificate.
What’s different between districts?
Miami-Dade County
Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns.
Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws.
Students over 18 can request changes without parent permission.
Fill out Form FM5626 for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents.
Broward County
Teachers can use a student’s affirmed name and pronouns, but only if a parent or legal guardian gives written permission.
Unlike other districts, there’s no explicitly stated extra FERPA protection.
Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission.
For names: Broward Emergency Contact Card (Must be completed annually)
For pronouns: PreK-12 Preferred Title Title and Pronoun Request Form
Palm Beach County
Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns.
Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws.
Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission.
Fill out Palm Beach Form PBSD 2688 - Student Registration for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents.
Email Template
Under state law, teachers can't ask students for their pronouns – but students can still provide them to affirming teachers. Below are template emails students can use to inform their teachers or submit name/pronoun forms.
To Teachers
Subject: Introducing Myself
Dear [Professor/Teacher name]:
My name is [preferred name], and I will be attending your [name of course] class this year. I am contacting you to let you know that my name will show up on your roster as [legal name], but I would prefer to go by [preferred name] and [your pronouns] pronouns. I identify as [your gender identity] and do not identify with my legal name. I will be putting [preferred name] on my assignments and would appreciate it if you called me by this name and used the pronouns [your pronouns] to refer to me in class.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. You can contact me at [your email address].
Thank you so much for your understanding. I am looking forward to starting your class next week.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
To Principal/School Staff
Subject: Request for Affirmed Name/Pronoun Update
Hi [Principal/Counselor’s Name],
Hope you’re doing well! My [child/teen/self], [Legal Name], goes by [Affirmed Name] and uses [pronouns, if applicable] in daily life. We’d love for this to be reflected in school systems where possible!
I’ve attached the completed [Form Name]—let me know if anything else is needed. Also, just checking:
Has it been processed?
How will this update be shared (or kept private)?
Are there any other steps we should take?
Thanks so much for your help in making [Student’s Name]’s school experience a little more affirming!
Best,
[Your Name][Your Contact Info]
Pro Tip: CC a guidance counselor or trusted teacher if you’re not getting a response. A little persistence goes a long way!
More Information & Resources
For details on Florida's law:
For district-specific LGBTQ+ support guides: