Students Claim Roseburg High Is Threatening Suspensions After Walkout Over Transgender Using Female Locker Room

by | Oct 11, 2025 | News

Roseburg High School Walkout
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ROSEBURG, Ore. — Dozens of students and parents gathered outside Roseburg High School on Friday afternoon around 1 p.m. during eighth period in a walkout centered around transgender rights and student privacy. The demonstration was organized after reports surfaced that a transgender student had been using the girls’ locker room — a decision that left some students feeling uncomfortable and others calling for greater understanding and inclusion.

Roseburg High School in Roseburg, Oregon (Image courtesy of wikipedia.org)

Protesters carried signs reading “No boys in girls’ locker rooms,” “Girls deserve privacy too,” and “My privacy is important too,” while counter-protesters displayed messages such as “Trans rights are women’s rights” and “Protect trans kids.”

Parent and organizer Shannon Miller said the walkout stemmed from concerns about privacy and a desire for open discussion.
“Some of my daughter’s friends let me know about this going on,” Miller told local media. “As a mom, I don’t stand for boys in my daughter’s locker room. That’s a private area for her.”

Several students at the walkout echoed that sentiment. Sophomore Layla Seal said, “I don’t have a problem with trans people until it makes me uncomfortable. It’s disrespectful to preach women’s rights and then ignore our privacy.” Another student, Trevor Ling, added, “I don’t believe boys should be in girls’ locker rooms. I don’t think that’s appropriate.”

However, not everyone agreed with the protest. Counter-protesters described the event as harmful and exclusionary toward transgender students. Senior Donovan Loy-Steiner said, “The display of transphobia and bullying against children in our community is unacceptable.”

Another student, senior Cyrus Stratton, said they attended the counter-protest to show solidarity with classmates who felt targeted. “I couldn’t imagine being that one person, feeling terrified, with hundreds of people against me,” they said.

Students Claim School Threatened Suspensions
According to several students who participated in the walkout, school administrators allegedly threatened them with suspension for speaking out. In a video circulating on social media, students can be heard saying they were warned about possible disciplinary action for leaving class or protesting on school grounds.

Roseburg High officials have not confirmed these claims, and no formal statements have been released addressing the allegations. The school district has also not issued any comment regarding potential disciplinary measures connected to the walkout.

What Could Happen if the School Refused Access
Under Oregon state law, public schools are required to allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity. These protections fall under the state’s anti-discrimination policies in education.

Image courtesy of Andrew Griffin / News-Review photos

If a school were to deny a transgender student access to facilities that align with their gender identity, it could face state enforcement actions or legal challenges from civil rights organizations or the Oregon Department of Education. Schools found to be in violation may be required to update their policies, provide staff training, or enter into compliance agreements to ensure equal treatment for all students.

The walkout concluded peacefully, but the situation continues to generate strong feelings among students, parents, and community members. The debate highlights the ongoing challenge for Oregon schools as they navigate questions of privacy, inclusion, and adherence to state law.


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Written By Tyler James

Tyler James, founder of That Oregon Life, is a true Oregon native whose love for his state runs deep. Since the inception of the blog in 2013, his unbridled passion for outdoor adventures and the natural beauty of Oregon has been the cornerstone of his work. As a father to two beautiful children, Tyler is always in pursuit of new experiences to enrich his family’s life. He curates content that not only reflects his adventures but also encourages others to set out and create precious memories in the majestic landscapes of Oregon. Tyler's vision and guidance are integral to his role as publisher and editor, shaping the blog into a source of inspiration for exploring the wonders of Oregon.

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