Topeka ? The Topeka school district has expanded its anti-discrimination policy to include homosexual and transgender students and staff.

The board voted Thursday night to expand the policy to include the words “sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression.”

The district’s attorney, Cindy Kelly, said the additions are designed to help students who are being bullied or harassed because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that board member Janel Johnson cast the only no vote. She said the current anti-bullying policy already protects all students.

Other board members said they supported the move because it was important to send a message that the district will not tolerate discrimination against anyone.