SFUSD superintendent defends policies, transgender student issues during Congressional hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KGO) -- San Francisco Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Maria Su defended the district's policies Wednesday during a congressional hearing that focused on issues including transgender students and ethnic studies in public schools.

Su testified for several hours before the Republican-led House panel, answering questions about whether federal laws are being upheld. She appeared alongside leaders from school districts in Chicago and Virginia, as well as a representative from the National Center for Youth Law. Much of the questioning centered on Chicago.

In her opening remarks, Su told lawmakers that San Francisco is proud of its history as a pioneer in LGBTQ rights and its commitment to welcoming all students. Despite battling laryngitis, she delivered her testimony and responses to lawmakers.

MORE: Tentative $183 million deal reached to end historic San Francisco teachers' strike

Members of Congress questioned Su on a range of topics, from drag-queen story time programs to the teaching of algebra during her 18 months leading the district. Throughout the hearing, she remained composed and clear in her responses.

Addressing questions about gender identity and bathroom access, Su said the district follows state and federal law.

On the committee, Bay Area Congressman Mark DeSaulnier set Su up nicely to talk about family resource centers and how they create positive outcomes for kids and families.

MORE: Bay Area activists worry Trump's push to end youth gender-affirming care is just the beginning

The hearing comes as the Trump administration has launched a separate federal investigation into San Francisco Unified and three other California school districts.

The district now sits at the center of broader national debates over cultural issues in education, including policies related to transgender students, religious rights and parental rights.