A new proposal from the New York State Department of Education could allow boys to join all-girls sports teams at schools that don’t have separate boys’ teams, raising concerns among administrators.

The policy, which aims to promote equality, would allow boys to audition for girls’ softball, field hockey and volleyball teams, but critics fear it could undermine opportunities for female athletes and pose safety risks.

“The changes could discourage female participation,” said Joseph Ricca, principal of White Plains School. The Board of Regents will vote on the proposal in September, following a public comment period that ended in July.

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