The Chicago Public School system has announced new guidelines that allow transgender students and employees to use the restroom that corresponds to their gender identity:

The policy, which also applies to "gender non-conforming students," covers all education opportunities, including overnight field trips, and allows for alternative arrangements if requested, such as a single-stall restroom or separate changing schedule.

"CPS, like much of the country, has become far more aware of the needs and experiences of the transgender community, and it's crucial for CPS guidelines to reflect our commitment to promoting safe and inclusive schools," district Chief Education Officer Janice Jackson said in a statement.

Chicago school officials said they updated their policies to provide transgender and non-conforming students with the same opportunities to participate in school events. Schools will also offer "support plans" for each student. 

School officials consulted legal and medical experts in writing the guidelines and said individual accommodations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students will also have the right to be addressed by a name and pronoun "corresponding to the gender identity they consistently assert at school."

The Chicago Public School system has 660 public schools and around 400,000 students.