Following President Trump's executive order prohibiting transgender athletes from competing in women's sports, the Department of Education (DOE) has initiated investigations into several educational institutions for potential Title IX violations. The Office of Civil Rights (OCR) will examine cases at San Jose State University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA), all involving transgender athletes participating on women's or girls' sports teams.

The DOE emphasized its commitment to upholding Title IX protections for female athletes, echoing the sentiment expressed in President Trump's executive order. The investigations stem from highly publicized controversies and lawsuits surrounding the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports.

The case at the University of Pennsylvania involves Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer who competed on the women's team after previously being on the men's team. Thomas's participation and subsequent record-breaking performances sparked controversy and led to legal action by former teammates, including Paula Scanlan, who expressed gratitude for the DOE's investigation. The lawsuit alleges, among other things, that the university pressured athletes to accept Thomas's inclusion and suggested counseling for those who struggled with the situation.

At San Jose State University, the investigation centers on transgender volleyball player Blaire Fleming. A lawsuit filed by former teammates and a coach alleges that the university concealed Fleming's birth sex from other players and that Fleming was involved in an incident where an opponent intentionally injured a teammate. The controversy surrounding Fleming led several opposing teams to forfeit matches. SJSU President Cynthia Teniente-Matson has stated that the university will cooperate with the investigation.

The MIAA investigation focuses on an incident where a transgender athlete on the KIPP Academy Lynn girls' basketball team allegedly injured players from the opposing team, forcing them to forfeit the game. The MIAA's handbook currently allows students to participate on teams consistent with their gender identity.

In addition to these specific investigations, the OCR is reviewing athletic participation policies at other schools to ensure compliance with Title IX. The NCAA has indicated its willingness to adapt its policies to align with President Trump's executive order, signaling a potential shift in the landscape of collegiate sports.