The U.S. Department of Education has removed data on bullying based on gender identity and nonbinary students from a major school civil rights survey. The update, released this week, alters the scope of the survey, which was previously used to track discrimination and harassment in educational institutions. The revised version excludes information that could have highlighted disparities faced by transgender and nonbinary students.
Officials have not provided an official explanation for the removal, though some analysts suggest it reflects broader policy shifts under the Trump administration. The change affects the National Center for Education Statistics' report, which had previously included data on bullying related to gender identity. Advocacy groups have expressed concern over the omission, arguing it undermines efforts to address bullying in schools.
The decision has sparked debate over the transparency and inclusivity of federal education data. While the administration maintains the survey remains a valuable tool for understanding civil rights issues, critics argue the removal of key data limits the ability to fully assess the impact of bullying on marginalized student populations.
