Search Results

< Back to School Policy Hub PrEP and PEP PrEP and PEP are medications you can take to prevent exposure to HIV . These can be extremely effective in helping people who are at high risk of exposure. What is PrEP? Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventative medicine that when used as prescribed is effective in preventing the risk of contracting HIV from sex. It is an oral medication that is taken once per day. It must be taken for at least seven days to best prevent HIV. If you are in a high-risk group for HIV/AIDS, talk to a medical provider about whether PrEP is right for you. What is PEP? Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a medicine used after high-risk exposure to HIV. PEP stops HIV from spreading in the body, so it lowers your chances of getting it. If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV through sex, you have up to 72 hours to start PEP. If you start PEP after 3 days, it won’t work. You can get PEP at most emergency rooms and some doctors’ offices. Important: Keep in mind that PEP isn’t a one-time pill. It’s taken for 28 days and should only be taken in an emergency by those who have had a high-risk exposure to HIV. Get Tested Today HIV testing is fast and easy. The Affordable Care Act ensures HIV screening is covered by health insurance without a copay, and some sites offer free testing without insurance. Check out the STI Clinic Search to find out where you can be tested in South Florida. References About HIV/AIDS | HIV Basics | HIV/AIDS | CDC . (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/whatishiv.html What is HIV? What is AIDS? | How Can You Get HIV? (n.d.). Planned Parenthood. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/hiv-aids

< Back to School Policy Hub Josephine Baker Who was Josephine Baker? Early Life Life as an Entertainer Working as a World War II Spy Fighting Against Segregation Death and Legacy Who was Josephine Baker? Josephine Baker on October 20, 1949 (Image Source: Carl Van Vechten, Van Vechten Collection at Library of Congress) Josephine Baker was an American-born French entertainer and performer, French Resistance agent, World War II spy, and civil rights activist. Baker’s career shows the ways entertainers can utilize their platforms to influence society and change the world. Josephine Baker became one of the most successful black performers France has ever seen. While she had four marriages with men, she was bisexual and had several relationships with women. When Hitler and the German army invaded France during World War II, Baker joined the fight against the Nazi regime. She transported secrets she heard while performing for the enemies with invisible ink, wiring messages, and information on her sheet music. Early Life A portrait of Josephine Baker in one of her extravagant performance looks. Baker was known for her unique style both in terms of looks and dance. (Image Source: General Photographic Agency/Getty Images) In the early summer in St. Louis, Missouri, Josephine Baker was born by the name Freda Josephine McDonald on June 3, 1906. Baker was raised by her two parents, who were also performers, and often found herself on stage with them as they performed throughout the Midwest, which was greatly segregated. Like many at the time, Baker’s parents never succeeded in their entertainment careers, forcing Josephine to make ends meet herself. To do this, Baker would often dance in the streets to collect money, much like street performers do in New York and other major cities today. While dancing one day at the age of 15, she was noticed by an African-American theatre troupe and asked to perform with them. Around the same time, Josephine got married, took on her husband's last name, Baker, and claimed her middle name, Josephine, as her first. Thus, she is now known as Josephine Baker. Life as an Entertainer Josephine Baker became among the most popular and sought-after performers, especially in France. Her unique choreography, which embodied traditional African styles and costumes, made her an unforgettable entertainer. Baker starred in many Vaudeville shows, a theatrical style of performance throughout the 20th century. She later moved to New York and immersed herself in the performance seen there. At this time, New York was experiencing the Harlem Renaissance, which was a revival and appreciation of African-American art and entertainment. After her time in New York, Baker moved her entertainment internationally to Paris, where she won over audiences, predominately white ones. Working as a World War II Spy Due to the outbreak of World War II, Josephine's career as a performer was put on hold. With the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, Baker found herself checking off all the boxes the Nazis were against. She was now in her third marriage, an interracial relationship with a French-Jewish man, as an openly bisexual woman. As Hitler and his army invaded their way into Paris, Baker, along with thousands of others, fled the city for her own safety. Once in Southern France, Baker was recruited by Jacques Abtey to take part in espionage for resistance against the Nazis as her celebrity status allowed for easier and more protected travel between countries. Baker was recruited by the French Resistance as a spy during World War II against Hitler and the Nazis. She utilized her celebrity status as well as a variety of espionage tactics in order to gather and spread information regarding the enemy. (Image Source: Studio Harcourt/Public Domain) Josephine Baker housed many other resistance fighters and provided them with the resources they needed. Due to her celebrity status, she was able to attend highly-ranked diplomatic parties and gatherings where she observed and took note of any behaviors or plans she noticed. She would write on her skin, pin notes in her underwear, and use invisible ink on her sheet music in order to record and pass on messages because she knew, as a celebrity, no security would suspect her of espionage or strip search her. Fighting Against Segregation After World War 2, Baker returned home to St. Louis, where she was shocked to see the widespread segregation that she had not fully understood as a child. Baker took it upon herself to stand up to segregation and once again used her platform as an entertainer to make change. Baker refused to perform for any segregated audiences, which often forced venues to integrate audiences if they wanted the prestige of having such a famous performer at their venue. Baker was recognized by the NAACP and was given the honor of speaking at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Death and Legacy Josephine Baker is a prime example of celebrities using their platforms for positive social change. Throughout her career, Baker formed her “rainbow tribe,” which consisted of her 12 adopted children. She showed people could exist in harmony despite racial or cultural differences. Josephine Baker performed late into her life up until her passing on April 12, 1975. Josephine Baker adopted 12 children with varying backgrounds, nationalities, and ethnicities. She called her family the “Rainbow Tribe” and promoted the idea that people can live together and love despite the differences they may have. She fought against segregation and racism and showed that one’s skin color does not determine their worth or need to be loved. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) References Josephine Baker . (2017). National Women’s History Museum. https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/josephine-baker Siren of the Resistance: The Artistry and Espionage of Josephine Baker | The National WWII Museum | New Orleans . (2020, February). The National WWII Museum | New Orleans. https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/siren-resistance-artistry-and-espionage-josephine-baker#:~:text=Iconic%20entertainer%20of%20the%20Jazz,to%20high%2Dranking%20Axis%20officials

< Return to STI Clinic Search FoundCare - Palm Springs Call: (561) 432-5849 Website: https://foundcare.org/who-we-are/locations.html#collection-item-lightbox-14892287 Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 2330 S Congress Ave, Palm Springs, FL 33406, USA Hours: Today (Fri): 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sat: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sun: Closed Mon: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Tues: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Wed: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thurs: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Lot Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV (Rapid) : Free Hepatitis C (Lab) : Free

< Back to School Policy Hub Talking About Getting Tested The Importance of Getting Tested Talking to Your Partner About Getting Tested Responding to Pushback The Importance of Getting Tested If you've had unprotected sex (sex without the use of a condom, dental dam, or another barrier method ), you could be at risk of contracting an STI. Some STIs don't cause symptoms right away (or at all), and some common symptoms of STDs (bumps around your genitals, vaginal/penile discharge, itching, or pain in your genitals) can have other causes completely unrelated to sexual encounters. The only way to know for sure that you do (or don't) have an STI is to get tested. Generally, this means once per year if you're sexually active. If you're in an at-risk group, such as MSM (men who have sex with men) or those who use injection drug equipment, you may want to consider getting tested more frequently (every 3-6 months). Click here to find a local testing center. Talking to Your Partner About Getting Tested The best way to discuss getting tested is to be open and honest. Voice your need to get tested together early on, preferably before you have any type of sex with them. It may feel awkward or uncomfortable, but you'll feel better having had the conversation once you make the push. Consider getting tested together. Going to get tested means acknowledging the possibility that you could have an STI, which can be daunting. However, having the support of your partner in doing so may help ease your nerves. Make sure to remain steadfast. If your partner isn't receptive to getting tested, let them know that it doesn't mean you don't trust them or that anyone cheated, you want to do it for your own health and for theirs. We recommend watching Planned Parenthood's video on discussing STD testing with your partner: Responding to Pushback The most important thing to remember is that your body is YOUR body. If you care about your sexual health and your partner doesn't respect your concerns, this can spell major trouble for your relationship with them moving forward. Question whether or not it's worth it to engage with someone who doesn't care about your sexual health or their own. Willingly risking your or your partner's sexual health isn't sexy. Peace of mind is sexy.

< Back to School Policy Hub Emergency Contraception What is Emergency Contraception Types of EC Things to Consider Side Effects Conclusion What Is Emergency Contraception (EC)? Consider emergency contraception (EC) your backup plan after unprotected sex or a birth control slip-up. It works by preventing ovulation or fertilization of your egg, and it’s highly recommended that you take it ASAP for the best results. Just remember, it’s not the same as an abortion pill— it won’t work if you’re already pregnant. EC is safe and temporary, but it’s not meant to replace your regular birth control routine. It’s there for emergencies when things don’t go as planned. Let’s look at the different types of EC available. Types Of EC When it comes to emergency contraception, knowing your options can help you make the best decision for your body and situation. There are two primary ways to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex: intrauterine devices (IUDs) or emergency contraception pills. IUDs , like Kyleena, Paragard, or Mirena, can be inserted up to 5 days after sex and are the most effective method, regardless of body weight. However, keep in mind that IUDs can be quite pricey, and depending on your age, doctors may be apprehensive about inserting them. Alternatively, morning-after pills, such as Plan B or ella , can be taken, but they work best the sooner you use them. It’s crucial to act quickly and choose the method that fits your needs. Plan B is easier to access without a prescription but may be less effective if you weigh more than 165 pounds, while ella requires a prescription and may be less effective for those over 195 pounds. "Plan B", One Step, Emergency Contraceptive by Mike Mozart of TheToyChannel and JeepersMedia on YouTube Things To Consider Whether it’s a condom mishap, missed birth control, or unplanned unprotected sex, emergency contraceptives are here to prevent pregnancy. Just remember that EC is not intended to replace regular birth control! And more importantly, emergency contraception doesn't protect against STIs, so make sure you're covered on that front too! When it comes to EC, take action as soon as possible, as timing plays a crucial role in effectiveness. Side Effects While side effects (such as headaches, abdominal pain, or tiredness) may occur from taking EC, they are rarely serious and usually do not last long. Your next period may come early or late, and you may have spotting (light bleeding that happens between menstrual periods). Conclusion At the end of the day, it’s all about being prepared and knowing your options. Whether you choose an IUD or a morning-after pill like Plan B or ella, emergency contraception is there to help when things don’t go as planned. As always, stay informed, stay proactive, and always take control of your health—because your body, your rules. Reference Planned Parenthood / https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception/which-kind-emergency-contraception-should-i-use Women’s Health.gov / https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/emergency-contraception

< Back to School Policy Hub The American Civil Rights Movement A photograph of the 1963 March on Washington (Source: Wikimedia Commons) What was the Civil Rights Movement? The Civil Rights Movement was the decades-long fight for social justice, equal rights, and equal treatment for African Americans. Most would cite the 1950s as the "beginning" of the movement. In actuality, there was never a specific starting point when African Americans started advocating for their rights. Even today, African Americans have to fight to be treated equally in society. Black Codes and Jim Crow Laws Black Codes were numerous sets of laws enacted in the former Confederate states to ensure white supremacy stayed in place. An image of an African American drinking from a colored water fountain (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma in 1939). (Image Source: Public Domain) Put into place following the Civil War, Black Codes were very detrimental to African Americans. This was done because, while the 13th Amendment to the Constitution ended slavery, there was a loophole; Section 1 of the 13th Amendment states the following: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” Because of this, if an African American committed a crime, they could be legally forced back into slavery. Black Codes included many ridiculous laws that only applied to people of color. Even the most minor offense could cause a person of color to be forced back into slavery. Jim Crow laws were unfair laws that further segregated people of color. Thomas Dartmouth Rice inspired the name with a racist minstrel routine he performed in the early 1800s. In these performances, Rice supposedly went on stage and acted like a baboon while wearing blackface. Eventually, Jim Crow became an offensive slang term for Black men and a designation for segregation. Jim Crow laws separated people of color from schools, housing, jobs, water fountains, public gathering places, etc. All of this, plus the already existing racism in society, created difficult circumstances for African Americans. Black Codes and Jim Crow laws’ existence truly made life unfair for African Americans and are just some of the reasons why the Civil Rights Movement began. Notable Figures Rosa Parks An image of Rosa Parks being fingerprinted by a Deputy Officer after refusing to give up her seat on a bus during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) Rosa Louise McCauley Parks was an African American civil rights activist who is best known for her role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Parks refused to give up her spot on a bus on December 5th, 1955, as she was a person of color and had to sit in the back. She was forcefully removed from her seat and fined $10 (equivalent to 250 modern dollars). Parks was called “the first lady of civil rights” and “the mother of the freedom movement” by the Congress of the USA. Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivering the famous “I Have A Dream” speech at the March on Washington on August 28, 1963. (Image Source: PBS) Martin Luther King Jr. was an African American civil rights leader and Baptist Minister. King was seen as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement who helped inspire millions of Americans to make a change. King became the most visible spokesperson and leader during the Civil Rights Movement. King is most famous for his “I Have A Dream” speech. This speech helped pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act and was vital in inspiring all Americans. Malcolm X Malcolm X in 1964. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) Malcolm Little, better known as Malcolm X , was an African-American human rights activist and Muslim Minister who was a popular figure of the Civil Rights Movement. He was a supporter of Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism. Unlike Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X urged his fellow African Americans to protect themselves from white suppression “by any means necessary.” He labeled other civil rights leaders “stooges” of the white world and even labeled Martin Luther King Jr. as a chump. Other Civil Rights leaders worth mentioning include Sojourner Truth and Bayard Rustin . Conclusion The Civil Rights Movement was successful due to its strong leaders and the dedicated work of people of color in America. As Martin Luther King Jr. said in his famous speech: “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” While people of color still fight for absolute equality today, the United States would be a very different place if it weren’t for the Civil Rights Movement. References History.com Editors. (2021, May 17). Civil Rights Movement . HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/civil-rights-movement History.com Editors. (2021, January 21). Reconstruction . HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/american-civil-war/reconstruction The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (n.d.). black code | Laws, History, & Examples . Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/black-code Carson, C. (n.d.). American civil rights movement | Definition, Protests, Activists, & Facts . Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/event/American-civil-rights-movement The 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution . (n.d.). National Constitution Center – The 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. https://constitutioncenter.org/interactive-constitution/amendment/amendment-xiii Urofsky, M. I. (n.d.). Jim Crow law | History, Facts, & Examples . Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/event/Jim-Crow-law Nobel Prizes 2020 . (n.d.). NobelPrize.Org. https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/peace/1964/king/biographical/ Nichols, C. (2020, February 4). Rosa Parks (1913–2005) BlackPast. https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/parks-rosa-1913-2005-0/ History.com Editors. (2021a, January 19). Rosa Parks . HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/rosa-parks History.com Editors. (2009, October 29). Malcolm X . History.com. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/malcolm-x.

< Return to STI Clinic Search Latinos Salud - Wilton Manors Call: (954) 765-6239 Website: https://www.latinossalud.org Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 1401 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, USA Hours: Today (Fri): 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sat: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Sun: Closed Mon: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Tues: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Wed: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Thurs: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. OPEN Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Lot Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV (Rapid): Free HIV (Lab): Free Chlamydia : Free Gonorrhea : Free Syphilis (Lab): Free Hepatitis C (Rapid): Free Hepatitis C (Lab): Free

< Back to School Policy Hub MDCPS Reaffirms the Importance of Diversity [Miami, FL] – On Wednesday, the Miami Dade School Board approved Board Member Dr.Steve Gallon III's amendment to an extremely controversial agenda item that many feared would prohibit pride flags and flags from other countries. This amendment ensures that flags representing federally-protected classes can still be displayed. This reaffirms what many members of our community made clear at the board meeting today: that our students, teachers, and parents deserve to feel seen and represented throughout the year, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

< Back to School Policy Hub Contraception What is Contraception? Contraception is the use of artificial methods to prevent pregnancy when engaging in sexual intercourse. Type of Contraception Contraception can be broken into five main types: Condoms Diaphragms Cervical Caps Birth Control Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) Implants Sterilization You can click on any of these to find out more information. The Importance of Contraception Contraception can prevent unwanted pregnancies. Using contraceptive methods allows you and anyone you have sex with to determine when you have children, how many you want to have, and when to stop having children. Barrier methods protect you from STIs. Barrier methods, such as condoms and dental dams , are extremely effective in protecting you from a host of sexually transmitted infections. Learn how to talk to your partner about using contraception.

< Return to STI Clinic Search AHF Wellness Center - South Beach Call: (877) 259-8727 Website: https://www.freestdcheck.org/locations/fl-south-beach/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 1613 Alton Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA Hours: Today (Fri): 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Tues: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wed: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Thurs: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV Chlamydia Gonorrhea Syphilis

< Back to School Policy Hub How to Report Violations How to Report Violations and Stand Up for Your Rights When a student’s rights are violated at school—whether it’s misgendering, being denied bathroom access, having a GSA silenced, or witnessing censorship—it can feel overwhelming. But students, parents, and teachers are not powerless. There are systems in place for reporting harm and holding schools accountable. The process is not always easy or fast, but it matters. Knowing how to document what happened and where to bring your complaint is the first step in making sure your voice is heard. Start with Documentation The moment something happens that feels wrong, write it down. Whether it’s a conversation, a denial of access, or a disciplinary action, keeping a record is key. Include: Date, time, and location Names of staff or students involved A clear description of what happened Screenshots or emails, if relevant Even a short summary can be valuable. If you feel unsafe doing this alone, ask a friend, GSA advisor, or trusted adult to help you document what occurred. Report to Your School Most school districts require that complaints start at the school level. This may involve submitting a written statement to your principal, guidance counselor, or designated Title IX Coordinator. Every school district is required to have someone in that role, even if their contact information isn’t easy to find. Miami-Dade: District Title IX Coordinator Ms. Nicole B. Rutherford (305) 995-1580 nrobertson@dadeschools.net Broward: District Title IX Coordinator Wladimir G. Alvarez (754) 321-2150 wladimir.alvarez@browardschools.com Palm Beach: District Title IX Coordinator Eunice Vivar (561) 792-8686 TitleIX@palmbeachschools.org Request a response in writing. If the school does not follow up within a reasonable time, typically ten business days, you can escalate. In cases where school policy itself is the problem—for example, if your district refuses to recognize GSAs, denies bathroom access, or has adopted discriminatory curriculum rules—you can also file a complaint with the Florida Department of Education. But be aware: the state has backed many of these rollbacks, so outcomes may vary. Use Federal Civil Rights Protections If your situation involves discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disability, you can file a federal civil rights complaint. This includes: Title IX for sex-based discrimination, including anti-LGBTQ+ harassment or denial of access Section 504 or Title II of the ADA for disability-related issues Title VI for racial or ethnic discrimination These complaints go through the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). You do not need a lawyer, and there is no cost to file. Complaints must typically be submitted within 180 days of the incident. You can file online here: https://ocrcas.ed.gov Why Reporting Matters Filing a complaint doesn’t always lead to an immediate fix. But it creates a record. It signals that students and families are paying attention. It can lead to investigations, policy changes, and accountability—even if it takes time. It also shows other students that they’re not alone. Some of the most important changes in school policy happen not through new laws, but because someone filed a complaint, told their story, and refused to accept silence. PRISM Can Help If you’re not sure where to start, PRISM is here to walk you through it. We can help draft complaints, identify the right contact, and provide support throughout the process. Whether you’re a student, parent, or teacher, you do not have to navigate this alone. When your rights are violated, speaking up is an act of courage—and a step toward something better.

< Back to School Policy Hub Case Studies and FAQs Case Studies and FAQs: Real Students, Real Cases Understanding how legal decisions and enforcement events have played out in real life can help students, parents, and educators assess risk and build a path forward. This article relies exclusively on documented cases and policy enforcement in Florida. Case 1: Adams v. St. Johns County School Board (Florida) In one of the most significant federal cases involving school bathroom access, a transgender student named Drew Adams sued his school district after being told he could no longer use boys’ restrooms at Nease High School. Adams had been using the boys’ facilities without issue until officials forced him to use a gender‑neutral restroom or women's facilities. He challenged this under Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause. Initially, a federal district court ruled that the school must allow him full access. A three-judge panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that decision in 2020. However, in a full en banc ruling in December 2022, the 11th Circuit reversed the lower courts, finding that a school bathroom policy based strictly on biological sex did not violate federal law. Takeaway: While earlier courts supported access based on gender identity under Title IX, the final en banc ruling upheld sex-based separation. That ruling remains binding in Florida and neighboring states. Case 2: First Arrest Under Florida’s HB 1521 – Marcy Rheintgen On March 19, 2025, a transgender woman named Marcy Rheintgen was arrested at the Florida State Capitol after using a women’s restroom to wash her hands. She was charged under Florida’s Facility Requirements Based on Sex Act (HB 1521)—the state’s law that criminalizes using restrooms inconsistent with your sex assigned at birth. Prosecutors later dropped the misdemeanor trespassing charge because they failed to file in time. This is the first known enforcement of HB 1521 since it went into effect on July 1, 2023. It highlights the legal risk individuals now face under state law—even when federal law may offer protection. Wikipedia Frequently Asked Questions Can schools require transgender students to use restrooms based on sex assigned at birth? Yes. Under Florida’s HB 1521 and state administrative rules (Rule 6A‑10.086), public schools must require restroom access based on biological sex assigned at birth. The en banc Eleventh Circuit ruling in Adams supports this under current federal law. Can students face legal penalties for refusing state bathroom rules? Yes. HB 1521 makes it a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail or a fine) for a person to remain in a restroom inconsistent with their assigned sex after being asked to leave. The arrest of Marcy Rheintgen demonstrates real-world enforcement. Does Title IX still protect transgender students? Title IX still exists—but the 11th Circuit en banc ruling rejects that identity-based bathroom protections are required under Title IX in Florida. While some federal courts outside the 11th Circuit interpret Title IX more broadly, Florida remains bound by this precedent. Can a school district create more inclusive policies than state law? No. State law overrides district policy. On issues like bathroom access, HB 1521 sets the statewide rules all schools must follow, even if local leaders want to go further. While schools cannot adopt policies that conflict with state law, some may offer case-by-case supports such as single-stall restrooms, private changing areas, or flexible scheduling to help students feel safer. Why This Section Matters These real cases underline a difficult reality: while Title IX protections once seemed to support gender-affirming access, federal precedent now permits restrictive bathroom rules. And under state law, enforcement is real and punishable. Understanding these rulings and legal risks allows families and educators to make informed decisions, document events properly, and pursue remedies when violations occur—or prepare to challenge them.