Two Houston parents have filed a federal lawsuit accusing the Houston Independent School District (HISD) of secretly “socially transitioning” their daughter by using male pronouns and a masculine name without parental consent. The lawsuit, filed June 23 in the Southern District of Texas, names HISD, Superintendent Mike Miles, Bellaire High School Principal Michael Niggli, counselor Sarah Ray, and multiple teachers as defendants.
Sarah and Terry Osborn claim that more than six staff members at Bellaire High School referred to their daughter using male identifiers for two years, despite the parents’ repeated objections. The lawsuit alleges this violated their constitutional rights under the First and Fourteenth Amendments. The Osborns are seeking an injunction to prevent further use of male pronouns or names for their daughter, as well as monetary damages.
Alliance Defending Freedom represents the family and argues the school’s actions infringed on the Osborns’ religious and parental rights. The legal group maintains that public schools must not withhold vital information from parents or make identity-based decisions about children without consent. HISD has declined to comment due to ongoing litigation.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott previously ordered the Texas Education Agency to investigate Bellaire High School after similar reports surfaced earlier this year. Since then, the Texas Legislature has passed laws requiring schools to use pronouns consistent with a student’s biological sex and mandating parental notification of any gender-related identity changes.
Supporters of the lawsuit argue that it defends parental authority and religious freedom. Opponents claim schools must respect students’ gender identities to ensure safety and inclusion.
