Kingston Superintendent Addresses Concerns Over Online Gender Identity Lessons

Washington Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Kingston K-14 School District Superintendent Dr. Mike Golden is addressing concerns from parents and community members after a student accessed lessons about gender identity through an online health course not approved as part of the district’s curriculum.

In a message sent to families, Dr. Golden explained that the lessons were included in a state-approved online health program used by the district for credit recovery and summer school. Although the program allows districts to opt out of certain topics, including gender identity, the lessons were not removed as intended.

“We intended to and should have removed them,” said Dr. Golden. “We have already rectified the situation by removing them this evening.”

Golden emphasized that the topic is not part of Kingston’s official curriculum and that the inclusion was unintentional. He assured parents that an investigation is underway and safeguards will be put in place to prevent future oversights.

“If you or your child come across anything you question in an online course or otherwise, please immediately reach out to your building principal and myself,” he said.

Golden apologized for the mistake and invited anyone with additional concerns to contact him directly at 573-438-4982 or via email at golden.mike@kingston.k12.mo.us.