In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated. Terms Defined. “Administrative law judge” means a hearing officer designated by the Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings to render the final decision of the Superintendent in a hearing. “Complainant” means a person who files a complaint alleging a discriminatory act under this chapter. “Department” means the Maryland State Department of Education. “Discriminatory act” means an act prohibited under this chapter. “Gender identity” means the gender-related identity, appearance, expression, or behavior of a person, regardless of the person's assigned sex at birth, which may be demonstrated by: Consistent and uniform assertion of the person's gender identity; or Any other evidence that the gender identity is sincerely held as part of the person's core identity. “Office of Administrative Hearings” means the administrative unit of Maryland government which is responsible for processing requests for hearings, for scheduling and conducting hearings, and for rendering decisions pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1601 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland. “Party” or “parties” means the complainant and the respondent. “Protective hairstyle” includes braids, twists, and locks. “Race” includes traits associated with race, including hair texture, afro hairstyles, and protective hairstyles. “Respondent” means a person accused in a complaint of a discriminatory act. “Sexual orientation” means the identification of an individual as to male or female homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality. “Superintendent” means the State Superintendent of Schools.