STRONGLY OPPOSE 2022 Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in VA’s Public Schools

Symone Walker, Esq., APS Parent, VSC & Arlington NAACP Education Committees

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The title “2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools” is a misnomer. The proposed 2022 model policies substantively strip students of privacy, dignity, and respect.  It actually endangers students.

The proposed 2022 model policies rely heavily on parental rights to make “the best” decision for their children.  There is no denying that the Fourteenth Amendment provides parents with a fundamental right to make decisions concerning the upbringing, education, and care of their children. While this fundamental Constitutional right is undeniable, the affirming caselaw in the proposed 2022 model policies are fallaciously cited for the proposition that parental decisions always withstand Constitutional scrutiny.

The parental rights construct is widely embraced by our society, and on its face, connotes reasonableness.  However, this construct has been misconstrued in the proposed 2022 model policies to convey an unfettered right.  In fact, parental rights is not without limits. The state, acting as parens patriae, will step in and substitute its judgement for that of a parent when necessary to protect a child from a parental decision that is abusive, neglectful, or otherwise harmful.

The current 2021 model policy acts as parens patriae because it encompasses a safety mechanism to protect the identity of transgender/gender-expressive students from parents who are not supportive of their child’s gender identity, and could cause the child physical or psychological harm, and/or housing instability.  The 2022 proposed model policies removes this safety guardrail which is short-sighted, dangerous, and inconsistent with state and federal law.

Allowing minors to make certain autonomous medical decisions without the need for parental consent and involvement is strongly supported by Virginia law. Specifically, a minor is deemed an adult under state law for the purpose of consenting to medical or health services: (i) To determine the presence of or treatment for venereal, infectious, or contagious diseases for which there is mandatory reporting to the board of health; (ii) when needed for birth control, pregnancy, or family planning (except sterilization); and (iii) when needed for outpatient care, treatment or rehabilitation for substance abuse, mental illness, or emotional disturbance. (See Virginia Statute § 54.1-2969).  Allowing students to autonomously assert their gender identity/expression while at school without parental consent and involvement is the kind of sensitive medical information that aligns with the spirit of this law, but was unevolved when the law was enacted in 1950.

Moreover, the state acts as parens patriae to protect the medical information of minors from parental access when it is unsafe for the child.  Specifically, access to a minor’s health records may be denied if the minor’s treating physician or treating psychologist determines in their professional judgment that furnishing the records to a parent would be reasonably likely to cause substantial harm to the minor. (See Virginia Statute § 20-124.6).  The current 2021 model policies embodies this type of professional judgement and aligns with state law.

The proposed 2022 model policies exclusively centers parental rights over the rights of the students to which the policy applies. By contrast, the protection of children is inherent in Virginia’s laws.  By enacting these protective laws, Virginia legislatures have prioritized the rights of children when their safety is at risk, signaling a compelling interest in preserving and prioritizing students’ rights to privacy in their gender identity/expression, including privacy from unsupportive parents or guardians.

In addition, the proposed 2022 model policies makes a preposterous leap that the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), in extending Title VII protections to transgender employees in Bostock v. Clayton County, “narrowly,” and “explicitly refused to extend this interpretation to other federal antidiscriminatory [sic] laws such as Title IX.” On the contrary, there is no such explicit language in Bostic. Further, it is well established that SCOTUS only decides the specific facts and issues currently before it. Finally, since Title IX protects everyone who interacts with a school receiving federal funds from discrimination, including parents and guardians, students, employees, and applicants from sex-based discrimination, regardless of their real or perceived sex, gender identity, and/or gender expression, it is highly improbably that SCOTUS purposely crafted the Bostic decision to block all Title IX discrimination complaints against schools by any plaintiff, or to limit school employees to suing only under Title VII.

In sharp contrast, the Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights (OCR) in response to Bostic noted that “courts rely on interpretations of Title VII to inform interpretations of Title IX.” OCR provided well-reasoned guidance for arriving at this interpretation to include noting the textual similarity between Title VII and Title IX.  Specifically, OCR opined: “The Department issues this Interpretation to make clear that the Department interprets Title IX's prohibition on sex discrimination to encompass discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.” (See https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/06/22/2021-13058/enforcement-of-title-ix-of-the-education-amendments-of-1972-with-respect-to-discrimination-based-on).

In conclusion, the proposed 2022 model policies are inconsistent with state and federal laws, and endangers transgender/gender-expressive students. The current 2021 model policies conforms with state and federal laws, protects students, and should stand.


Trans Rights are Human Rights, No Matter the Age

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One flaw I found in the proposed change to the 2021 law regarding transgender students is this: I understand the desire for the parents to raise their children as they deem fit, however the children themselves should be given some liberties to counteract if their parents become abusive. It is no secret that some parents are abusive to begin with, so under this system, it becomes increasingly more difficult for the children to seek aid.

Essentially, this change moves a problem from the school to the home, and makes it worse for the students themselves.


Strongly support.

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<p>I strongly support Governor Youngkins changes to the current transgender student policy.  We should not usurp parental rights.  It is our right and responsibility as parents to protect and educate our children on matters regarding sexuality.   To give the minority who are transgender special privileges such as using locker and bathrooms of their choice is wrong. The innocence and modesty of children needs to be protected.   We have never allowed the minority to rule and should not now.  </p>


There is a rise in the number of trans kids because of a reduction in stigma around being trans

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<p>Trans people have always existed at the same rate they do now. They were just silenced or killed in greater number before. That’s the reason the “numbers are skyrocketing”. </p>


Youngkin can't handle facts and Logic. We oppose!

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<p>The youngkin administration is out of touch with our modern reality. These are lives, not political tools. Your religious beliefs do not apply to all Virginians. This is an obvious effort to erase the existence of trans teens in public spaces, and will further contribute to suffering of our populous. Children aren't being groomed, and expressing sexual identity is integral to the proper development of a human being. THESE POLICIES ARE INHUMANE. </p>


Support!Do not forget what happened in Loudoun!

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If schools are allowed to transition kids secretly…they can also keep secrets if your child is raped or abused in school. Do not forget what happened in Loudoun!


Strongly oppose Youngkin

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<p>Oppose Youngkin on LGBTQ, some books eliminated of school libraries & restricting teaching of slavery. </p>


Very strongly oppose

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Like many Republican efforts, this guidance document actually does the opposite of what it purports to do. It requires students to file legal documents if they want to be called by different names or pronouns than what’s in their birth records. It prohibits students from using facilities marked with their preferred pronouns. It reverses policies instituted in 2020 that allowed transgender students to use the facilities, pronouns, and names that match their preferred gender identity. These new policies would prevent teachers from supporting trans and non-binary students in several ways. Finally, they will detrimentally affect these young people who are already at increased risk of severe depression and suicide.


Governor’s transgender policies for Virginia schools.

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I support Governor Glynn Youngkin’s policy for transgender students in Virginia schools.


Support LGBTQ Kids

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This has NOTHING to do with parental rights and EVERYTHING to do with ignorance and bigotry. LGBTQ kids deserve our support and protection.


I fully SUPPORT the rewritten transgender policies

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I raised three kids. I know that Middle and High school years can be very challenging. I'm glad we already have comprehensive bullying policies to ensure a safe environment, while respecting the rights of all students. That's why it's important that schools have the freedom--as this updated policy allows--to address bathroom privacy issues on a case by case basis with parents. There should not be a one-size-fits-all pressure tool that treats all districts/communities the same. PLEASE finalize these updated 2022 Model policies as written without removing any of the key protections to restore parental involvement in the process and protect children's privacy and safety rights.


imagine thinking self-expression is child abuse. Martha you're invited to suck deez nuts too. OPPOSE

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You're probably the type of person to abuse your kids and call it discipline huh? protect trans youth. make transphobes mad.


Parents Rights

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Parents have the right  to parent their child not the state.


Support Parents Rights

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<p>I fully support this and parents rights. The government, school boards, teachers and other organizations or entities do not supersede the choices and decisions parents make for their children. Children need protections against inappropriate content and parents are their to raise, protect and advocate for their children. The infringement on our parental rights must stop, protect children and let them be kids! Serious decisions about a child’s health and life choices must include parents at all times. </p>


Trans Lives Matter

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I do not understand why the governor is doing this. If the school tells my parents I’m trans I don’t know what they’ll do. I hate this country, I hate the governor, and I hate that I can’t be myself.


Support!! If They Are “Born that way” Why Are The Numbers Skyrocketing?

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<p style="text-align: left;">Because they are promoting and glorifying this wickedness!! Like crabs in a bucket, trying to pull other impressionable kids down with them </p>


Transgender policy

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Vehemently oppose this Nazi-like policy. Youngkin lied to voters while running for Governor. He has been nothing but divisive and deceitful. Why doesn’t he just resign and get on with his Trumpian campaign for higher office where he can fool idiots outside the Commonwealth?


parents rights over kids? children aren't your property, stop talking like they are. OPPOSE

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<p>children are HUMANS. talking like you have a right over them is disgusting. you don't deserve to have kids if you talk and think like this. protect trans youth. </p>


"Openness may not completely disarm prejudice, but it's a good place to start."

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Please support ALL children and make public schools a safe place for them to be comfortable as their true selves.  Your transgender policy is embarrassing and backwards and disgusting.


Parental rights-support

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Social transitioning is dangerous…it leads kids to further transition medically. Kids are perfect as they are. Schools should not be transitioning kids. Listen to parents!We want parental rights without interference from schools. Parental rights are in the constitution.


Oppose repealing Boysko Simon legislation

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Dear Governor Youngkin - I am urging you to keep the legislation passed in 2020 to protect the rights of ALL students and treat parents, teachers, and students with respect. School should be a welcoming place for everyone.     Growing up is hard enough without the state imposing antiquated notions of conformity that put children at risk.

Bring compassion back to the political discourse and do what is right for our children, teachers, and parents. Thank you for your consideration.


Srongly agree with our Governor; request that bathrooms be strictly for males or females also.

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<p>Our Governor has done the right thing for the children!!! Parents have the sole jurisdiction over their children and their health and welfare. The transgender issue is child abuse. </p>


Support Parental Rights in Education

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Please move forward on parental rights in education. Parents have a responsibility to counsel their children according to the values that they believe will bring them life and peace. Those seeking to push a political ideology on children do not truly have their best interests at heart.


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I support Governor Youngkin’s policy 100%. Protects kids, teens and parents!!


This is pretty uncool

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This is a pretty uncool draft that seems to be drawn out of an attempt to appeal to conservative voters' desire to "protect" their children from "groomers" (ie, Democrats and/or those in favor of LGBTQ+ rights). A note should be made that the vast majority of LGBTQ+ people are not child molesters, Catholic priests and Boy Scout troop leaders are more likely to be so.

The point that raises the largest red flag, in my opinion, is the proposal that teachers and school officials have to use a students' birth name and gender unless the student's parent (or student if over 18 or emancipated) sends a note into school authorizing the use of any nickname or alternate personal pronouns. It would expose LGBTQ+ children to increased risk of violence or discrimination, especially if those students live in intolerant and bigoted households. Requiring a student to be 18 or emancipated, minimum age is 16 in Virginia, to be able to have their preferred name or pronouns used (without parental consent) smacks of discrimination. I say discrimination because of how few emancipated or 18-year old students there are in schools.

When I was in high school, I knew of one emancipated student in a school of 2000. All the other students that were turning 18 turned 18 during the spring, right before graduation (I graduated at 17).

As a personal anecdote, my younger sibling is homosexual. When they came out to my mother, their first words were "don't tell dad". My parents are fairly tolerant, mom accepted it without blinking. However my dad responded with "don't tease them because they'll get in their head they're gay, and they're not". They attempted suicide a few years back (thankfully they failed). Again, my parents are tolerant, if strongly conservative and Catholic. I can think of a handful of family friends (with kids) that would not take the news that one of their children is LGBTQ+ positively.

In short, this is making a mountain out of a mole-hill. It's no big deal for a teacher to make a physical or mental note if a student prefers "Jim" to "James" (to use a cisgendered example). It's no big deal either if a trans student wishes for a different name to be used. It's no big deal for a student to have different pronouns be used in the classroom. Polite society already takes these requests into account on a daily basis, there's no need to be regressive and deny these students their preffered names and pronouns. They're not hurting anyone, unlike this proposal.

As for the other parts of the proposal, I would say that verb for the provision of single-person restrooms change from "should" to "shall". More conservative areas will wiggle out of institutional changes unless mandated from above.

A particularly interesting part was in the definitions section. The 2021 document had definitions for trans- and cisgender, the 2022 document did not. By not defining either term, or using them in the proposal, it is akin to saying that those groups do not exist. It also appears to be a very intentional snub. Denying someone is a certain way is denying a fundamental part of their identity, which has deletorious effects on their mental health.

The suicide rate among LGBTQ+ children is already much higher than their cisgender peers (1.8 million consider it nationwide, an attempt every 45 seconds). 45% of these children seriously contemplate it, and trans and non-binary students are over 50%. That is because they are already stigmatized at home and school. If you want to "protect the kids", provide them this safe space and allow the use of the students' prefferred pronouns and names. Don't put a target on their back, don't deny them their identity.

If you truly care about children's welfare, visit The Trevor Project and read over their page about LGBTQ Youth Suicide (https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/facts-about-lgbtq-youth-suicide/). It's a tough read and, hard-hearted as I am, I get choked up everytime I see those numbers because that was my younger sibling. That could be your child or grandchild. That could be your friend's child.

Don't be a dick to these kids.

Good afternoon,

NA Velasquez


Bette Coney, Nancy, Aubree -- how about you all support these nuts in your mouth? OPPOSE

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bigots like you shouldn't have kids. do us all a favor and quit reproducing thanks. protect trans kids. make transphobes mad


Strongly oppose

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I am for more concerned with the rights of students than those of parents.  If parent preferences trump the rights, freedoms, and dreams of students, then we may as well close our schools.

This is a destructive policy that will harm children.


This will harm my students.

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<p>This bill is another example of students in this country being told they do not matter. We need to better. Trans kids deserve respect. </p>


Support the new policy that restores the rights of parents

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I strongly support the governor's updated policy that restores the rights of parents to make choices for their MINOR children.  The schools, which are extensions of the government, have no authority to conceal anything about that child from a parent.  The previous policy encouraged lying to parents not just by the child but by the school (again, an extension of the government).  This policy also protects the sanctity of bathrooms and locker rooms where a young girls and boys should not be forced to share with those of the opposite sex, regardless of what social gender they identify.  God bless Governor Youngkin.


Support Youngkin and Parental Rights!!

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<p>Parental rights are fundamental.  I fully support Governor Youngkin. </p>


Strongly Support Revised Parent Friendly Policy

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<p>I strongly support parents having the rights over their children. It is outrageous that parent's rights are being (and continue to be) ripped from them in our society and culture today. </p>


if you supported your kids, they wouldn't keep secrets from you. just saying. OPPOSE

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if your kid has to hide their identity from you, it's probably because you abuse them. kids don't hide things on purpose. they hide things out of fear. die mad transphobes and idiot parents


Trans kids need our support, not judgement and bullying.

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Trans kids are already targeted constantly with harassment and bullying from students and teachers. This policy would only increase the danger they face everyday.


Strongly support Parental Rights of minor children in education

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Neither name choice, pronoun use, hormone therapy nor surgical procedures can change the biological sex/gender of anyone.  When we die, a pathologist can look at a few bones and determine male or female of that individual irregardless of any of the above.  DNA matters.

Children want to "belong," and this current misguided fad of the gender identity "trans" movement is damaging the lives of our children.  Girls especially are sensitive to changes as their bodies mature.   They are not comfortable sharing locker rooms or bathrooms with men/boys.   Girls cannot compete on a level playing field with boys in sports.  It is patently unfair to the vast majority of girls to require they share what should be private spaces with members of the opposite sex or try to compete with male athletes to "accommodate" the tiny minority of confused individuals.  That accommodation can be made another way.

Thank God for Governor Youngkin taking a stand for parents and the children under their care in the area of education in Virginia.  I completely support these proposed guidelines.


I support Gov Youngkin's policy 100%.

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<p>Its time the Dem Propaganda Stops. They have brainwashed our children AT SCHOOL with foolish ANTI - Science hatred and FOOLISHNESS. </p>


Strongly Support

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It clearly states in the document that all students are to be treated with respect at all times.  This is about keeping parents, who are the guardians of their children, knowledge on what is going on with them.  The parents do not co-parent with schools.  Parents in the end are responsible for the direction of their children.


Strong Supporter of this Bill and Hope it Spreads

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<p>This bill is sorely needed to protect parents and their children from schools who believe they are best placed to protect and support children. Parents love their children and they are best placed to determine what is in their child's interests. To deny parental input, including notification and consent, is to usurp their rights and undermine the educational mission of schools.  </p>


Parental rights-support policy

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<p>Give back parental rights.Let children be raised by their parents.Schools should not be keeping secrets from parents.Parental consent needed before transition. </p>


parent's rights? parents have the right to suck deez nuts. F you Youngkin. Oppose this policy

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protect trans youth. stop idiots like this from endangering kids


Suck my dick transphobes

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Ya’ll are idiots. Just let kids be kids and  off?


Finally some common sense!

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Finally a shred of common sense is coming out of Richmond.  Parents Rights Matter!


Strongly Support Parents Rights

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Strongly Support Parents Rights


Strongly SUPPORT


Strongly support!

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Sidelining a parent is not just cruel, but immoral.

If the schools really are concerned and want to be involved with families, they should be working to help them rather than confusing, dividing, promoting a sexual agenda or ignoring parents.  I support Youngkin's revised policy.

Jack Gill


Thank you, Governor!

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Strongly support the proposed changes!  Protects children, teens, young adults and their parents!!


This bill only protects parents who hate their kids.

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This bill is child abuse. Plain and simple. Youngkin is. Monster who needs to be stopped.


Imagine thinking self-expression is an issue. Nate Peters can suck it too. Oppose this policy

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What IS an issue is the amount of school shootings that happen in this country. How about we leave trans kids alone and focus on actual issues?


this ain’t it

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this endangers trans and non binary students


Anyone who supports this is either a colossal idiot or wants trans kids to die

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I cannot fathom who would actually want this idiotic bill to pass.


Protect trans kids


Strongly Oppose -

I remember, years ago, reading, "If we can go from calling Puff Daddy P. Diddy, then Diddy, then Sean Combs, and back to Puff Daddy, we can surely call someone by their chosen name." It made an impression. Or we could consider Taylor Swift's wise words and realize that denying someone's gender identity, in addition to being malicious, is futile, "'Cause shade never made anybody less gay." True enough! Though I guess it could make them dead. Because, you know, LGBTQ youths are 4x as likely to attempt suicide. Discrimination against youth DOUBLED the likelihood of attempting suicide. I wonder how being discriminated against by your governor and school system will play out for those kids...It's pretty clear who will end up on the right side of history for supporting the persecuted. There is so much that could be done to actually support kids' education and it's incredibly disappointing to not only have these opportunities to improve the VDOE lost to political theater, but to have students' chances of having an improved education diminished in the meantime. Diminished and, too often, ended.Every student deserves to feel safe and supported in school, whether or not that's the case at home. The fact that having one supportive adult in an LGBTQ youth's life can reduce their odds of attempting suicide by 40% makes it unthinkable to prohibit that acceptance occurring at school.My younger brother was killed at 27. Too early. I know what it is to lose a family member and the impact it has on a community at large. These youth suicides and attempts do not only effect the LGBTQ community, they effect families and communities at large. Let's support these kids, families, and communities instead of one hateful man's political agenda.

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I remember, years ago, reading, "If we can go from calling Puff Daddy P. Diddy, then Diddy, then Sean Combs, and back to Puff Daddy, we can surely call someone by their chosen name." It made an impression. Or we could consider Taylor Swift's wise words and realize that denying someone's gender identity, in addition to being malicious, is futile, "'Cause shade never made anybody less gay." True enough! Though I guess it could make them dead. Because, you know, LGBTQ youths are 4x as likely to attempt suicide. Discrimination against youth DOUBLED the likelihood of attempting suicide. I wonder how being discriminated against by your governor and school system will play out for those kids...

It's pretty clear who will end up on the right side of history for supporting the persecuted.

There is so much that could be done to actually support kids' education and it's incredibly disappointing to not only have these opportunities to improve the VDOE lost to political theater, but to have students' chances of having an improved education diminished in the meantime. Diminished and, too often, ended.

Every student deserves to feel safe and supported in school, whether or not that's the case at home. The fact that having one supportive adult in an LGBTQ youth's life can reduce their odds of attempting suicide by 40% makes it unthinkable to prohibit that acceptance occurring at school.

My younger brother was killed at 27. Too early. I know what it is to lose a family member and the impact it has on a community at large. These youth suicides and attempts do not only effect the LGBTQ community, they effect families and communities at large. Let's support these kids, families, and communities instead of one hateful man's political agenda.


Kirk Brammer and Youngkin can suck these nads. Oppose

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protect trans youth from pieces of s**t like these people


Strongly Support

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I strongly support this policy change that puts the responsibility back on the parents, who have the right to raise their children as they see fit.  Hopefully this will cut down on all the craziness going on in the schools where the children are being indoctrinated with left-leaning ideologies by teachers who are more concerned with polluting minds than teaching the basics.


Strongly oppose.  Protect trans kids!

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I am disgusted by Youngkin's decision to play culture war games with children's lives for political gain.  Kids are not the property of their parents.  They should have their individual rights protected to speak to counselors or teachers without the fear of Youngkin's big government policies that invade their privacy and out them to their parents.  If parents want to what their kids are struggling with, then they should work on being more supportive of their kids.  This policy will cause more children to commit suicide.  I thought that would be something Youngkin would not be in favor of, but here we are.

All school faculty should be required to respect the preferred names and pronouns of kids.  If you have a religious belief that requires you to disrespect children, you can find a job at a private religious school.  Taxpayer funded schools should follow the law and not allow discrimination.

This policy change is also illegal.  The general assembly passed protections for trans and non-binary kids.  The governor has no authority to come in and throw those protections out.  Contrary to what some people might want in this country, we do not allow dictators to unilaterally make laws based on their personal feelings.


strongly disagree with transphobia.

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<p>students have the right to be comfortable and safe in their school environment, outting children and teens just because their views don’t align with your own. </p>


Thank you Governor Youngkin!

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I strongly support Governor Youngkin!!  God bless him!!


Department of Education Model Policies for Transgender Students

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I fully support and agree with Governor Youngkin's Model Policies for Transgender Students K-12


I strongly support

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<p>I strongly support parents rights in schools and having a say with their own children.  I will always be a mom, not a birthing parent. </p>


If you actually had a braincell, you would realize that the only thing to do here is oppose this

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<p>People fail to realize the long term effects this could have on trans kids; it's more than just "parental rights." This policy prohibits teachers and school staff from supporting trans & nonbinary students, such as using a student’s affirming name & pronouns. It's seeking to erase trans and nonbinary kids from the classroom by creating a hostile and dangerous school environment. Those of us who have read it and actually UNDERSTAND the repercussions that will follow if this policy changes oppose it. Anyone who supports this either abuses their kids at home or has the reading comprehension of a 2 year old -- perhaps both. </p>
<p> </p>


OPPOSE

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<p>Oppose, this will harm students and place some at risk for homelessness and isolation. </p>


Vehemently Oppose

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<p>No one should have the power to force a person, much less a child, to deny who they are. This is entirely inappropriate. </p>


BIG YES! to New Model Policy!

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Wow!  This is such a tremendous improvement!

Parents have responsibility for their own children.

Yes to Parents having the right to make decisions with respect to their own children!

Yes to Schools respecting parents’ values and beliefs.

Yes to Schools deferring to parents to make the best decisions with respect to their children.

Yes to Schools serving the needs of all students not just a few odd ducks!  Every child has the right to learn how to read, write, and do maths.  Would be great to teach them the history of our nation as well.

It is also essential to protect and keep safe our young girls from being attacked during school.  Not to mention protecting our hard-fought-for women's sports programs from biological male participants.

Let's stay out of creating a social experiment and support parents so our children will grow into productive members of society.

Thank you, Governor Youngkin, for doing the hard thing and doing what we elected you to do.  Bravo!


you’re not helping , you’re hurting the trans and lgbtq+ student body.

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<p>   it’s horrible you’re putting children through this in a place they’re supposed to feel protected and safe of themselves and their identity </p>


Strongly support proposed changes— protect kids and parents!

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The Governor’s modest proposed changes would return our schools back to the normal operating status of informing parents when their child is undergoing a significant issue. It is up to families to determine how to navigate such matters, not schools.

The proposed policy successfully balances common sense thinking with respect for parental rights and compassion and tolerance. It protects teachers, parents, and students from some of the absurdity that has come to dominate education. Let’s get back to normal.

This lifelong Democrat has ZERO regrets about voting for Gov Youngkin last year. Thank you for this proposed policy.


Strongly Support

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I strongly support this Guidance Document.


Opposition against rollback of protection for trans students

Kimberlee Cook, Madison High School GRAD

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I strongly oppose this bill and the administration homophobic and transphobic agenda.


Strongly oppose

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<p>All I want is to be able to go to school and hear people say my name and not be afraid of being outed to my parents. I don’t want to be scared. I just want to be able to be me. </p>


Strongly oppose.

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<p>Trans rights harm no one. This is hateful and bigoted. </p>


Students need support

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Not every child is in a situation where they can safely express themselves with their parents or guardians. This proposed policy is dangerous, and more of a threat to than a benefit for children.


Strongly support parental rights

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I strongly support the new guidance. There are some teachers and educators that would attempt to groom children and sexualize them.  Parents must be allowed to raise their children as they see fit.


model 2022 policy

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you’re not helping trans snd lgbtq+ students , you’re hurting and endangering them.


Strongly support Youngkin

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I strongly support Gov. Youngkin and his proposal.  Our children and grandchildren do not belong to the government and parents need to be involved in their childrens lives. Those who oppose this have NOT read it.


Transgender Issue Policies

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Parental rights must be the first consideration, especially with respect to issues of gender and sexuality at school.


SUPPORT!!!

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<p>His policy makes sense. </p>


Guidance Document for transgender students in public school

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<p>I fully support and agree with Governor Youngkin on the matter concerning transgender students in public schools </p>


I support Gov. Youngkin's trans gender policies for school

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This is the right procedure for all concerned. For non transgender children there should be some safeguard so that just anyone who wants to cannot take advantage of the system. For transgender students it is a serious subject and deceiving parents would put them under greater stress. They would do better to discuss it openly with their parent with the support of the school.


Supporting School & Parental Decisions

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<p>I completely support Governor Younkin is making sure parents are 110% informed & involved with their children’s school decisions!!! </p>


this is ridiculous

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I cannot believe our government is attempting to oppress CHILDREN!!!!! CHILDREN!!!! Self-expression is so important and children should have a safe environment to explore their identity!!! And they should have encouragement to be themselves. Interesting to realize we're continually legalizing hate crimes. This is nauseating and I fear for the safety of our children. It also perpetuates societal predispositions that trans and non-binary people are dangerous which is horrifying.


I am strongly against this dangerous policy

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As a life-long Virginian and former Virginia student, I am strongly against this proposed policy. It would be detrimental to the safety, mental health and well-being of children in Virginia. Trans youth deserve to be respected and supported and a policy like this is discriminatory and dangerous. If this policy is put in place, it will have an irreversible negative impact on Virginia youth. Acceptance and compassion for children costs you nothing. This policy, if enacted, could cost lives.


I oppose transphobic policies

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<p>Protect Transgender kids. Their physical and psychological safety is more important than parents' rights. </p>


As a parent I strongly oppose

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Schools have the responsibility to support their students well being. LGBTQIA+ youth face higher suicide rates and acts of violence compared to their peers and a bill that would further ostracize then should not be upheld in a public school setting. Ignoring a child's identity is inhumane and destructive.


Strongly Agree

A mom who lost her daughter to this cult

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<p>Protect our children. It is not the government's job to parent our children. Please stop the insanity. These children are not the government's. The schools struggle to teach our children how to read and write and now they are going to let allow CHILDREN change their gender? Stop the insanity. These are CHILDREN. Their brains are not even developed. Stay in your swim lane. </p>


Strongly oppose

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<p>This proposal will only hurt children and young adults. Many will think of or actually succeed in ending their lives. Support our young people, don’t ostracize them. </p>


Strongly oppose

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I strongly oppose Youngkin's 2022 Model Policies and support the 2021 model.

The 2021 model was based on best practices and research supported data as to the best way to support children.


I Support All Kids Rights

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I support this policy. All kids rights should be supported -not only trans rights. Trans is based on feelings, feelings change. Just like we may feel sad today and then happy tomorrow.What is feel like a girl or feel like a boy mean? But we can never change biology.There are only 2 sexes: male and female. Kids watch too much Tiktok and Twitter.


Strongly oppose this narrow minded and short sighted policy change

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This proposal claims to be aware of the first amendment guaranteeing religious freedom and prohibiting the government from compelling speech that is contrary to an individual’s personal or religious belief, yet they are attempting to make it mandatory to force students and teachers to misgender vulnerable trans and nonbinary students against their will and against their beliefs, unless they are lucky enough to have supportive parents. This is a gross abuse of governmental power and displays a total lack of understanding of trans issues.

Many children don't have supportive parents, many find refuge at school where they can be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. No, there isn't some pandemic of kids "pretending to be trans" to access girls bathrooms. There isn't some plot to "turn kids trans". This is a minority group that is trying to live their lives free from fear and abuse. This policy change would do nothing but put kids in danger. Anyone who actually cares for children over their own religious or personal beliefs will oppose this.


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Policies in the document are reasonable, consider all sides, and include parent input


I support this law

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<p> "Social transition"  is a major , experimental psycho-social intervention and should not be performed on students without parental consent. Safeguarding must be upheld and single sex spaces and sports maintained. </p>


Parent rights

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Thank you for restoring parents rights. This is how it should be and always be!


Strongly support Governor Youngkin

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Parents are not the enemy and deserve to be involved in decisions regarding their children's sexual orientation. We need to support the integrity of our families.


Pretty Certain Most People Are Commenting Without Reading The Attached Model Policy

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Responding To: 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools

It is painfully clear that people are receiving their direction and marching orders without even taking the time to actually read and understand the attached "Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools". The only real change is that it recognizes that parents have a fundamental right to make decisions as it relates to the welfare of their own children whom they are responsible until they are an adult. Additionally, we have numerous laws on our books on all levels(federal, state, and local) that protect the rights every human life including transgender.

I fully support Governor Youngkin on this initiative as it is the role and responsibility of the parent to raise the child, not power provided to the State. The State did not play a role in creating that student's life when the child was conceived; only the parents.


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Support! Thank you for restoring protections for basic parental rights!


Strongly oppose Gov Youngkin’s Transgender Policy Changes

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<p>The Governor’s Anti-Transgender Policy changes are abhorrent to the transgender kids and their families who support them.  What about kids who are afraid to tell their parents they are transgender for a real fear of rejection?  They should have someplace where they feel safe to be their true selves.  If a gay or transgender kid doesn’t feel free to tell their parents the school should not “out” them.  </p>


Youngkin's Model Policies

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I strongly disagree with these policies. All children, regardless of identity and orientation, should be protected and respected.


Strongly support Governor Youngkin

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It shouldn't be an issue to tell parents about ANYthing!!!!!  Kids belong to parents who know and love their children best.


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Parents need to have oversight of ALL of their kids lives


OPPOSE: This will hurt transgender kids

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Please have some empathy people. Not letting kids be themselves in the one place where they feel safe is simply cruel. Kids with transphobic parents will suffer the most from this. Parents, I ask you to look at what message you're sending to your kids, sprouting such hateful words towards groups of people because of who they are. Is this transphobic bill really what you want to support? A bill that will only result in making kids who already barely get any support even more miserable?


Strongly Oppose

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I strongly oppose Governor Youngkin's proposed policy for school boards to require teachers to report to parents, exclude trans students from sports, limit trans student's use of bathrooms, and prohibit students' affirming names or pronouns.

These proposals go against evidence-based research and best practices for trans-inclusive policies and lead to discrimination and harm to trans and non-binary students.

Trans-affirming school policies matter because school may be the only place where a student is able to ask questions safely, express themselves safely, and ask for help safely. Public schools need to be safe places for all students, especially those who face marginalization.

The trauma of anti-trans parenting and policies at school has lifelong effects on trans people, leading to higher rates of many diseases and shorter life expectancies because of the stress their bodies experience during their childhood and teenage years.

I oppose the draft policy and want the VDOE to reject them.


Support yes. Get back to safe schools. Tired of bizarre world

be who you are. No we don’t have to celebrate you. Get back to education

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Be who you want but quit forcing others to celebrate it.


Parents need to be included in all aspects of their child's life

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I support Gov. Youngkin's initiatives.  It feels that parents are being excluded from discussions about/with their children at school and in the medical field.  Children need guidance from those who care the most about them and are responsible for them (their parents).


Support: Schools transitioning kids has a greater negative impact on school districts and towns

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Schools should not be facilitating child gender and sexual transitions without notifying or getting consent of parents. If a child has mental health due to these social transitions and something happened to the child the school district May face lawsuits and this is not good for the taxpayers.When schools districts have too many lawsuits insurance premiums and the credit rating of schools and towns are going to skyrocket.When this happens towns have to increase property taxes. This is going to be a financial burden for towns. There will also be less people who will want to live in school districts and towns with the too many lawsuits and deemed unsafe for a majority of families and chikdren. People will move away from these schools districts and towns…who will these towns collect property taxes from? Socially transitioning kids at school has a much wider impact on schools and towns.


Strongly Oppose

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I strongly oppose Youngkin's 2022 Model Policies and support the 2021 model

Support children Protect children


Strongly Oppose

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<p>The desired changes could have absolutely no positive effect on a schools. This only infringes upon the individual’s right to gender expression and will have serious and harmful impacts. Children are not the pawns of their parents and should not be subjected to parents approval on a topic that is in no way congruous with education. Gender expression should have nothing to do with a kid’s education. Why won’t you let people have their names and pronouns (not to mention bathrooms?). A return to forcibly misgendering human beings is disgraceful. No one deserves to have their rights to express themself and designate what makes them most comfortable taken away. </p>


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>All students should have the right to feel welcome, supported, and accepted in whatever way they identify themselves. This policy proposes discrimination and is attempting to determine what is appropriate. Using a child’s preferred pronouns should be no more of a distraction or difficulty for the teacher than using the pronouns assigned at birth. It is very easy to do, and creates a safe environment for kids to learn in. </p>


I support Youngkin! No trans propaganda!

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I support governor Youngkin! Stop the forced trans propaganda and bring back God into the public place! Ban the degenerate nonsense of woke/LGBT agendas! It is from the Devil.

God made him/her! - not it, they, them etc….all the rest is from the Devil, who is the author of confusion, evil and godlessness!


Please support parental rights/notification

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I have read the guidelines and fully support parental notification.  This is not a hateful, spiteful thing.  This is supporting basic parental rights.


I agree with the governor on most aspects. Jesus is King!!

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<p>I agree with the governor on most aspects. The only things that I don’t agree with are that people will be outed to their parents and have to have parental permission to speak with counseling. Everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation should have a safe place to be, be able to talk to any counselor of their choice whenever they want. However, I do believe teachers should not be allowed even if parents say ok, to use preferred names or pronouns, because transgenderism is a sin. We always love and support the person, but we cannot accept sin. If you are a boy then you are a boy and use the boys room. Same goes for girls. I do believe however gender dysphoria is real, and they should be treated with the upmost respect and dignity. Bullying should never be allowed. Period. People with gender dysphoria should be allowed to use gender neutral or biological bathrooms, locker rooms, or play on sports. All are welcome, and we are called to love every human being just as Jesus loves us!!????I pray legislation gets passed the right way. Not any way that’ll harm the LGBTQIA Community. </p>


Strongly support!  Parents first.

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I support this change that puts parents first in the raising of their children!


Parents Must Be Informed

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Anything that undermines the authority of the parents is not needed.  The parents are responsible for their children.  The teachers and educators can be mentors, but the parents have the ultimate authority over their children.  I fully support Gov. Youngkin in putting back the fundamental rights of the parents.  He is not saying that we do not support all students, but must keep parents must be informed and can provide authorization for students to addressed as alternate gender.


Arlington Special Education Parent Teacher Association Opposes the 2022 Model Policies

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I am submitting comments on behalf of the Arlington Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA). SEPTA supports the educational experience of students with disabilities in Arlington Public Schools, who comprise approximately 15% of our school division population.

SEPTA believes that all students should be able to access school in safe, supportive, nurturing, and non-discriminatory learning environments. This includes transgender and non-binary students who experience higher rates of mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. This includes students with gender dysphoria, a psychological condition that is recognized as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Gender dysphoria involves clinically significant distress resulting from an incongruence between sex assigned at birth and gender identity.

These students face unique challenges in the school setting. They are disproportionately subjected to harassment, sexual assault, and physical attacks, and they are at higher risk of suicide, particularly when they are not allowed to use bathrooms matching their gender identity, participate in sports, or use their affirmed name and pronouns.

These negative impacts can be reduced, but the 2022 Model Policies would prevent schools from following evidence-based treatment plans that align with recognized standards of care, including living consistent with one’s gender identity. As such, the 2022 Model Policies would likely cause physical and psychological harm to these vulnerable students.

Indeed, if school divisions were to follow the 2022 Model Policies, it is difficult for us to see how schools will be able to meet their legally mandated obligations to provide protections and accommodations to students with disabilities. State guidance should provide a template for school divisions to comply with the law and support students in safe, nurturing, and non-discriminatory learning environments; this guidance does the opposite.

Therefore, SEPTA strongly opposes the 2022 Model Policies. We urge you to withdraw the 2022 Model Policies and reinstate the 2021 Model Policies.


Strongly support

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I support Governor Youngkin's policies on transgender issues in the Virginia public schools.


I support Trans Rights

I support all Trans people and their rights. I believe we should protect those rights. The Republican Party is a threat to decent society in our country.
"Come mothers and fathersThroughout the landAnd don't criticizeWhat you can't understandYour sons and your daughtersAre beyond your commandYour old road is rapidly agin'Please get out of the new oneIf you can't lend your handFor the times they are a-changin'" - Bob Dylan

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I support all Trans people and their rights. I believe we should protect those rights. The Republican Party is a threat to decent society in our country.

"Come mothers and fathers
Throughout the land
And don't criticize
What you can't understand
Your sons and your daughters
Are beyond your command
Your old road is rapidly agin'
Please get out of the new one
If you can't lend your hand
For the times they are a-changin'" - Bob Dylan


Treatment of Transgender students

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I support The Governors decision.  As a former public-school teacher, the focus should be on learning.  The students belong to their parents and not the school system.  The peer pressure and the pressure on teachers for this pronoun garbage is taking away from actual learning.  Schools and Administrators should focus on learning.  This is ridiculous.  Reading Writing and Arithmetic!!!!!.  Our children are not getting a good education.  We are off track with all this other stuff.


Transgender policies in schools

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Strongly agree with the new policies!! Now let’s get back to reading, writing and arithmetic.


Agree

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<p>I agree with the governor </p>


Strongly oppose, you don't have to look to hard to see the anti-trans agenda.

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Reading through this document, it is clear that only one set of beliefs is being upheld, those which deny the validity of being trans and continue to marginalize the trans community, while still citing that the government cannot compel anyone to conform to a set of beliefs. Just because a belief is widespread and socially enforced, like the belief that there are only two genders and they correspond to two sexes, doesn't mean its factual and more valid than other beliefs, yet that's how this law is being written. Blatant hypocrisy.


FULLY SUPPORT GOV YOUNKIN AND OUR PARENTS!!!!  Trans kids (less than .02%) can visit a psychiatrist

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FULLY SUPPORT GOV YOUNKIN AND OUR PARENTS!!!!

Trans kids (<..02%) can visit a psychiatrist


STONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids. This is not about you. This is about them and protecting them. It is our duty to protect our children and prosing something that harms transgender and nonbinary children is wrong. Stop. Now. </p>


Strongly Oppose

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All children need to be respected and protected. ALL CHILDREN!


Strongly oppose

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This policy is out of touch and promotes discrimination against transgender students. What is so difficult about using someone’s preferred pronouns and preferred name? A civilized, compassionate society needs to be inclusive and fully embrace and support all of its citizens, including those who are vulnerable. Transgender students deserve the right to fully express themselves and be referred to by the name and pronouns they choose. Some time  in the not-too-distant future, this right will be more universally accepted. I hope Virginia will be on the right side of history.


Support Governor Youngkin

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I support Gov Youngkin’ s changes. Parents should

be able to go to school and opt out of any gender affirmations. My God why is there a

to push kids toward becoming trans. No teacher no school and no school board has the

right to anything except academics! Thank you


Teacher and parent who OPPOSES these changes

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I have been teaching in Virginia public schools for 30 years and I oppose the Governor's proposed guidance on transgender students. My teenage trans students need support at school, and if that support means that they are less likely to self-harm or be bullied, then it's invaluable. I don't know why we would adopt policies that further marginalize our most vulnerable students.


Proposal based on fear.

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<p>The reason Youngkin proposed this item was not out of appreciation or even care for school systems, It was strictly out of fear and hate for a community in which acceptance is prioritized. If there was any confusion on why something like this was proposed I will gladly make it a point of explaining it to you. This idea was made up to ensure that children who do not fit into the heteronormative lifestyle are kept that way and made into outsiders. It was planned to ostracise people in the LGBT community and to try to attempt to silence this community further than it already has been throughout history. The idea/fear that people in the LGBT community will be accepted in everyday settings is the only thing that drives this, and this fear has been engrained for generations and has fostered hateful environments throughout communities all over. Forcing teachers to out children to their families would lead to higher rates of LGBT death/homelessness and unacceptance throughout. </p>


Strongly OPPOSE

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I was raised in central Virginia and was lucky to attend excellent Virginia public schools where all kids were welcomed, no matter how they dressed, how they expressed their gender, or what name they went by. These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to all kids, and especially trans and nonbinary kids. I am horrified at a future where trans kids aren’t able to seek vital services at schools, like confidential counseling, extracurriculars like sports, or just using the bathroom while at school. These proposed policies violate state law— do not let them pass and harm kids.


Support - Finally some common sense!

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Thank you for bringing Common Sense back into our schools. This policy allows for children and parents to, together, navigate the trials of growing up and puts the reins of parenting back into the hands of those who love and care about their kids the most. Although there will always be outliers, parents want the best for their children and this policy help reinforce that.
Thank you again.


Oppose

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What’s even the point of having this document with basically all the protections deferred to “parental rights?” Seems like we could achieve the same outcome - leaving our kids struggling and feeling unsupported - by just throwing out the whole thing. As a parent of a middle-schooler, I understand a school shouldn’t be responsible for raising my child but it’s definitely a partnership and guess what? I don’t have all the answers and don’t always know what’s best for my kid anyway…none of us do! Partnering with the schools to help children feel heard, included and validated is a GOOD thing!


STRONGLY OPPOSE - Protect and Support Trans Kids

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I am a proud Virginian, current law student, and graduate of Fairfax County public schools. These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to all kids, and especially trans and nonbinary kids. I am horrified at a future where trans kids aren’t able to seek vital services at schools, like confidential counseling, extracurriculars like sports, or just using the bathroom while at school. These proposed policies violate state law— do not let them pass and harm kids.


This is BS

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Glen Youngkin needs to resign at this point, proposing something so idiotic that it will not only impact trans kids (the intended target for this stupid ing bill) but also cis kids because of the idiotic "gender roles" and sex inforced dress code.


Not all families are safe spaces for children

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<p>It is important to acknowledge the importance of children/teens having people in their lives they can turn to when something is wrong. Teachers and people who work with children are mandated reporters. They work to support children and at times their role is to save children from dangerous situations. We are creating those dangerous situations and endangering already vulnerable children who are at risk for bullying and increased rates of depression and suicide. We need to trust both parents and teachers and that means acknowledging the immense training and experience teachers have to effectively manage the needs of children while in their care. I oppose the new policy and believe it will have a detrimental impact on children. </p>


Oppose Policies for Treatment of Transgender Students

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As a high school teacher in Virginia’s Public School System for 13 years and a parent of a student, I oppose the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools. ALL Students deserve the dignity that comes with having their name, chosen or given, used appropriately. Additionally, many of my students do not feel safe in homes where their gender identity is in direct conflict with their family’s beliefs. Are beliefs more important that the lives of our children? Most public schools offer and many students prefer to use a single stall bathroom (like in the nurse’s office) because peers harass them when they use a bathroom or are alone in a stairwell at school. These policies encourage this behavior from adults by disallowing teachers from calling students by their preferred name and/or pronouns. Finally, the medical community has confirmed that respecting trans/non-binary youth is key to their very survival. Transgender/non-binary youth have higher incidents of considering suicide, bullying, microaggressions, and self-harm.  Many attempt suicide. Every major medical community (including the American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, among many others) supports providing gender-affirming care and compassion to trans/non-binary/LGBTQIA youth. Let’s give these students the respect and compassion they deserve. Their lives depend upon it.


2022 Model Policies

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<p>I strongly agree with Governor Youngkin’s policy that parent’s should be informed of their child’s well-being including their gender disorder, eating disorder, etc. </p>


Completely Support This Legislation

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Thank you, Governor Youngkin for furthering the rights if parents to protect their children against the transgenderist propaganda being thrust at them!


Kids belong to their PARENTS

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Very pleased with Governor Youngkin. Agree with his transgender policies. The school system and politicians need to know their place. Back off from our children!!


RESTORE PARENTS' RIGHTS & PROTECT CHILDREN

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this directly affects you as a parent with children in public schools and/or how your school district has been directly impacted by the pressure to adopt policies that cut parents out of the process]

• Thank you for updating these policies to restore protections for basic parental rights and ensuring that parents are no longer cut out of the process—especially when it concerns how gender and sexuality issues are handled with our kids at school.

• I support the new policies’ removal of language that encouraged school officials to follow procedures to essentially deceive parents when their children are making potentially life-altering decisions regarding their gender identity in a school setting.

• The original policy had language that created a wedge between parents and their child, at a time when they need to have more communication—and I support the new update that removes this barrier.

• I support the updated language that acknowledges students and teachers can’t be forced into compelled speech that violates their constitutional rights, including First Amendment and religious freedom protections.

• I support the updated language that empowers schools to make their own decisions on how to best protect kids—especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable students in a state of undress in locker rooms or overnight sleeping quarters for school field trips.

• Middle and High School years can be very challenging, so I’m glad we already have comprehensive bullying policies to ensure a safe environment, while still respecting the rights of all students. That’s why it’s important schools have the freedom—as this updated policy allows— to address bathroom/privacy issues on a case by case basis with parents—and not through a one-size-fits-all pressure tool that treats all districts/communities the same.

• Please finalize these updated 2022 model policies as written without removing any of the key protections to restore parental involvement in the process and protect children’s privacy and safety rights.

Background:

For the last two years—through our statewide Protect Every Kid initiative—we have empowered parents to speak up to their school board members, especially when it comes to urging them to reject the extremely radical transgender-issue policies for schools created by the Northam Administration that jeopardized the religious-freedom and safety/privacy rights of students —and created a wedge between parents and their children. We also started collecting petition signatures to urge the Youngkin Administration to rewrite these harmful policies to restore parents' and students' rights.

The good news is Gov. Youngkin heard your voices—and his administration has rewritten the transgender-issue school policy in a way that clearly puts parents back in the process and removes language encouraging school officials to deceive parents when their children are making potentially life-altering decisions regarding their identity in a school setting.

Among other things, here are some of the improvements included in the revised 2022 model policies from Gov. Youngkin's office:

First, instead of instructing educators how to deceive parents, the revised guidance now makes it clear that no policy, guidance, or other written material issued by the school may encourage or instruct teachers to conceal key information about a student from the student's parent, including information about gender.

It also emphasizes that parents must be informed and given an opportunity object before counseling regarding gender is given to their kids.

And when it comes to areas like locker rooms or overnight sleeping quarters for field trips—where students can be in a state of undress, it empowers schools to make their own decisions on how to best protect kids—instead of high pressuring them to allow any male to enter a female private space for any reason.

The updated policies even have language protecting athletic opportunities for female students

And they also address the fact that schools can’t constitutionally compel employees or students  speak words that violate their faith or conscience.

“We are thrilled to see Governor Youngkin leading our schools toward respecting the privacy and dignity of all students and the preeminent role of parents in the lives of their children,” said Victoria Cobb, President of The Family Foundation in a press-release. “We are thankful Governor Youngkin has heard the pleas of Virginians from across the Commonwealth to be included in the lives and education of their children. The Governor's new policies are a substantial improvement that also supports teachers, who were being placed in the uncomfortable position of being asked to withhold information from parents.”

Under the new policy, parents in more than 90 counties will once again have their rights respected, as the policies their school boards adopted will automatically be reversed to include parents in the discussion. We call on the other counties to begin dismantling the policies they set in place under the old guidelines. Last month, Governor Youngkin, when speaking about gender expansive policies in Fairfax, boldly said this: "progressive liberals [are] trying to push parents out of their children's lives” and “push parents out of any decision that’s material in their child’s life.” The Governor through his statements and today’s release of his administration’s 2022 Policies, has firmly taken a stand for parental rights.


All students deserve to feel safe.

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I oppose changing the protection of our transgendered students and believe that the school should be a safe place where students experience inclusion and belonging. By continuing to allow parents to influence the way schools are being run, you are catering to only one side and the biases that come with it. I believe that the school should be a neutral place for our students and that student should be taught to care for one another and to appreciate everyone's differences. I do not believe that transgender policies negatively impact non-transgendered children who I believe should be taught compassion and to be allies to their peers. I believe that we need to put transgender policies in place to protect these children and that by reeling them back we are taking a step in the wrong direction. Even as a parent, I do not feel like it is my place to exert my own will on who my children should be or to dictate how they view themselves and how they want the world to view them.  In some cases, I feel like transgendered students find a safety system at school that they may not get at home, and I don't think that those protections should be taken away from them.


Strongly oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose the proposed 2022 policy. This policy, if enacted will only serve to harm transgender students. The policy is a violation of Virginia state code because it is not evidence based, and it does not create a safe environment for all Virginia students. The implementation of these policies will have deleterious effects on the mental health and well-being of transgender and non-binary students across Virginia. Leave trans kids alone. </p>


My kid, My kid’s choice

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<p>Students should be able to present as whatever gender they feel comfortable as in school. In a school setting, the child’s comfort is more important than a parent’s comfort because the child is the one in school. </p>


Parents involvement in gender identy

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Parent should always be involved in what there children do in school . Whether it be art , sports or anything else a child does. We as parents should know who is speaking to our children and what they are saying to them. We are the gate keepers for all of our children.


Emphatically support!

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Public schools should not be deciding/encouraging non-binary gender identification, or undermine Parent/Child relationships by hiding information from Parents.


Youngkin needs to go

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This is so incredibly disgusting. Unbelievable. What if everybody just started calling you by the wrong pronouns? How would you feel? This man and everybody who agrees with this is so transphobic. As a student who is part of the LGBTQIA+, this is just atrocious and really shows how much you all hate us. It's mind blowing to me that people like this exist and are elected to important positions. Do better, Virginia. Do freaking better.

Sincerely, an angry queer student


Strongly support Governor Youngkin’s policy changes

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I strongly support Governor Youngkin’s policy changes. The guidelines he proposes are good common sense policies that protect children. Let us not forget keeping children safe is of utmost importance. Thank you, Governor!


Disagree, please support the LGBT+! (Corrected comment)

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In my experiences I have been given the privilege to only hear about people's experiences. I also have been able to hear a different side of the argument given by a calm voice that has also been able to clearly explain the other side. There are a lot of things that have influenced my decision and I do see the good intentions on the opposing side, but I have to disagree. I think that even then it is good to implement. Multiple trans people I have talked to have talked a lot about being scared to talk up about this and that alone is going against the very wants of parents and teachers. If a child is scared to talk to a teacher or parent because of their beliefs, sexuality, or chosen gender, then the teacher or parent has failed already.

(This is re-posted under a different title as I accidentally put Agree rather than disagree)


Disagree - Implore to reconsider this new policy

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As a student in Virginia, I have found that there is a lot of hatred between students. This hatred is based on many topics, but a very common one is the LGBTQ+ community. I, personally, am in support of them, but even if I were not I wouldn't be okay with these new policies Governer Youngkin put in place. They create a space for more hatred between the LGBTQ+ community and other people. I believe that peace and tolerance are always the best for everyone's mental and physical health and these policies do not have . I implore Governer Youngkin to reconsider this policy. I want to see a happier healthier Virginia and this is not the way.


My Kid, My Choice!

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I support our Governor and parental rights. Our schools are stepping over boundaries and need to stick to education.


This is unacceptable

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The proposed policies will only do harm. Transgender kids already face enough abuse and harassment without their schools being against them. I've known transgender students who have killed themselves because of hate like this; these policies will kill kids.

It's honestly baffling that in 2022 anyone still holds views like this. Transgender students aren't doing anyone harm. They're only trying to live their lives and keep to themselves. Leave them alone.


Strongly Support Changes That Include Parental Involvement

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Thank you for allowing parental involvement in my students decisions as she maneuvers through the school system


Definitely do NOT support Governor Younkin's policy changes.

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<p>As a student in Virginia myself, let me say that kids are affected a lot by what people think of them, and it's important to make sure they feel supported and cared for in any environment, school especially. Changes like this, while I can understand the reasoning behind them, do the complete opposite. They make kids like us feel invalidated and unwelcome in our community. </p>


Why would you ever think this was a good idea?

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<p>Seriously, why? Imagine if you were referred to by pronouns that you don't prefer. What if your child came home from school and told you that they were trans? What if they told you they wanted to go by they/them, or want to go by a different name? What would you say? Would you tell them that they are wrong? What would they think? They would hate you. </p>


I support Governor Youngkin & his efforts to protect parental rights

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I am writing in support of restoring parental rights in the education of their children  I’d first like to see you thank you for updating these policies to restore protections for basic parental rights and ensuring that parents are no longer cut out of the process—especially when it concerns how gender and sexuality issues are handled with our kids at school.

I support the new policies’ removal of language that encouraged school officials to follow procedures to essentially deceive parents when their children are making potentially life-altering decisions regarding their gender identity in a school setting.  The original policy had language that created a wedge between parents and their child, at a time when they need to have more communication—and I support the new update that removes this barrier.

I support the updated language that acknowledges students and teachers can’t be forced into compelled speech that violates their constitutional rights, including First Amendment and religious freedom protections.

I support the updated language that empowers schools to make their own decisions on how to best protect kids—especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable students in a state of undress in locker rooms or overnight sleeping quarters for school field trips.

Middle and High School years can be very challenging, so I’m glad we already have comprehensive bullying policies to ensure a safe environment, while still respecting the rights of all students. That’s why it’s important schools have the freedom—as this updated policy allows— to address bathroom/privacy issues on a case by case basis with parents—and not through a one-size-fits-all pressure tool that treats all districts/communities the same.

Please finalize these updated 2022 model policies as written without removing any of the key protections to restore parental involvement in the process and protect children’s privacy  and safety in the school environment.
Thank you!


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>There’s no such thing as someone else’s children. We need to protect all of them. </p>


SUPPORT YOUNGKIN

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<p>STRONGLY SUPPORT THIS!!! TRANS IDEOLOGY MUST LEAVE OUR SCHOOLS NOW!! </p>


Oppose

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I strongly oppose the governor's plan. This is discrimination, and only hurts LGBTQ+ kids.


Strongly oppose

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I strongly oppose this policy. This policy is not rooted in research or the best interest of youth, including and especially trans you. This policy is using students as political pawns. We know from research that this policy will lead to more deaths of our students.


The governor is a disgrace

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<p>SUPPORT TRANS RIGHTS. SUPPORT BODILY AUTONOMY. PROTECT TRANS YOUTH. PROTECT BLACK AND BROWN TRANS WOMEN. </p>


Strongly Agree!

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In my experiences I have been given the privilege to only hear about people's experiences. I also have been able to hear a different side of the argument given by a calm voice that has also been able to clearly explain the other side. There are a lot of things that have influenced my decision and I do see the good intentions on the opposing side, but I have to disagree. I think that even then it is good to implement. Multiple trans people I have talked to have talked a lot about being scared to talk up about this and that alone is going against the very wants of parents and teachers. If a child is scared to talk to a teacher or parent because of their beliefs, sexuality, or chosen gender, then the teacher or parent has failed already.


OPPOSE CHANGING CURRENT POLICIES

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I HAVE EMPATHY FOR THOSE STUDENTS THAT ARE GOING THROUGH THESE CHANGES BUT I

DON'T THINK POLICIES SHOULD BE CHANGED WHEN SO FEW STUDENTS ARE AFFECTED .  I ALSO BELIEVE PARENTS SHOULD BE KEPT INFORMED AS TO ANY ISSUES WITH THEIR CHILD.  MOST OF THESE STUDENTS ARE TOO YOUNG TO BE MAKING THESE DECISIONS ON THEIR OWN.


I SUPPORT OUR GOVERNOR!

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Huge victory. Relieved for my children!


Strongly Oppose

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The 2022 Model Policies are contrary to state law and invite discrimination that violates state and Federal law and threatens the safety of transgender and nonbinary students.  All Virginia residents should be treated with respect and in accordance with the law - the 2022 Model Policies should be rescinded.


This is incredibly harmful, transphobic and idiotic.

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Why would you ever stop people from being their full selves? Do you want them to suffer from the rules you placed and the rules you supported? I'm surprised that anybody would have the lack of brain to think telling people they can't be comfortable with themselves was a good idea. I hope that at least one person will really think about what this is actually saying and who it'll be affecting and why people can't be loved and accepted for who they are?

sincerely,

              somebody who cares ♥


Gender Neutral Bathrooms

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We should have gender neutral bathroom for people who feel uncomfortable with being in the boys or girls bathroom.And we could have keys to the bathrooms for the who uses them.


Strongly Oppose changes

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<p>These changes are harmful to children overall, and particularly so in their educational settings. These changes are discriminatory and unneeded. </p>


Rescind the Proposed Transgender Policies for Public School Students

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The proposed transgender student policies are harmful to students and their families.  Public schools must remain safe places for learning for All students.  Not allowing students to be their full selves by controlling their gender expression harms their mental health and therefore their learning.  The proposed policies should be rescinded.


Strongly oppose transgender policies

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<p>Strongly oppose continuing to hurt transgender youth through tone deaf policies </p>


STRONGLY SUPPORT GOVERNOR YOUNGKIN RETURNING SANITY TO VA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

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Minors are children, not adults. Children do not understand the consequences of life-altering decisions. Parents are their first educators and the ones who care the MOST about them. Decisions about their care belong to PARENTS, NOT teachers. Governor Youngkin’s guidance strikes the right balance between taking into consideration students’ needs and parents’ concerns. Thank you, Governor Youngkin, for reminding the public school system that these are OUR CHILDREN. This is one reason we elected you.


My Governor Is better than yours!

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<p>Thank you so much Gov Youngkin for bringing sanity back to the state and out schools. Keep up the great work, we are behind you 100%. Signed the Parents of Pulaski County </p>


Strongly Oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose Gov Younkin's policy to limit the ability of transgender and non-binary youth to live in acceptance at school. </p>


I'm in agreement with the state's new K-12 proposed policy guidance

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As a mother and grandmother, I firmly believe that parents have the God-given right to be our children's primary moral educators. We, as parents and grandparents, are invested in every aspect of our children's lives from birth to the grave; therefore, since we bear the major responsibility, we should also wield the greater authority in determining what our children are taught. This transgender ideology, along with all the pronoun nonsense, is so potentially destructive to young minds that aren't yet fully aware of their sexuality, that I would deem it child abuse. It has no place in our children's formal education. There's also the issue of possible sexual exploitation in bathrooms/locker rooms if a student who appears to be of a certain sexual orientation claims to be that of another. It would seem more prudent to have a few private restrooms for students with varying issues to utilize, than to put the general population at risk, especially the girls. In closing, parents need to be empowered, not undermined. Families are the bedrock of society. Without education, civilization would suffer greatly; without families, civilization would end.


Passing this DOES kill kids.

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Scientific evidence overwhelmingly shows that the best way to help children who would like to socially transition and go on hormone blockers is to let them. Anything else is malpractice at best and abuse at worse.


STRONGLY Support Governor Younkin's policy changes

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PLEASE protect my female grandchildren from having to share personal and intimate space while performing bodily functions in school from members of the opposite sex or those that identify as questioning, confused, fluid or other terms.

Little girls deserve and we parents and grandparents demand that THEY have privacy and protection.

Thank you Governor Younkin


Transgender students new laws


Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools

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I support Youngkin on this issue, children are too young to make such a serious decision.


OPPOSE

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<p>This policy is not necessary as it targets trans youth. Your personal beliefs should not impact decision making that will affect many students. You are entitled to your beliefs, yes, but you should not abuse your power to create a discriminatory policy simply because you do not agree with their existence. One of your jobs is to create a feeling of security for all people in Virginia, but this bill does the exact opposite. You have an opinion that some people share, but it isn’t fair to force that opinion on every single person. The fact is this bill invalidates trans youth, a group of people who matter, and is a breach of expression. It should be ensured that a discriminatory bill is not passed regardless of whether it targets a specific race, gender, in this case- gender orientation. You will face backlash for this because most people believe that every single person deserves the same rights. </p>


Strongly Support 2022 Guidelines

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The fact that schools have gone so far to conceal actions they have taken from parents and others in the public indicates how necessary these changes are.  Parents are not the babysitters for the state. If a teacher feels a particular student is in danger from the actions of a parent, he/she can deal with the situation through public health avenues or initiate legal action.  There is no justification for declaring ALL teachers superior to ALL parents and concealing actions from the parents.


Oppose 2022 policy

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These policies are contrary to state law and their adoption will result in rampant violations of the rights of students, parents, and school personnel, and will inflict serious harm on transgender and nonbinary students.

All students should be safe, welcomed, and included in Virginia’s public schools. I oppose the 2022 Model Policies in their entirety and demand that the VDOE rescind them, leaving the existing 2021 Model Policies in place


Strongly disprove

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This will only lead to people getting hurt


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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I am STRONGLY OPPOSED to the proposed model policies. These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids. Members of the LGBTQ+ community already have higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide. From The Trevor Project in 2022: "45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. 45%. Nearly 1 in 5 transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide." These statistics are horrifying and should be prevented at all costs. Children should be accepted as who they are and encouraged to live as their true, authentic selves. They should feel safe at school, free from harassment and bullying. Reports show that children understand their own gender identity as young as 3-5 years of age; we should respect them and show them that we accept and understand who they are. Continue allowing schools to be a safe place for children; DO NOT implement these policies.


Passing this does NOT kill kids...

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I strongly support the governor and this policy. Parents have the right to train their child as they see fit for their wellbeing and future. There is no science to back successful transition of children. The statistics are in favor of children De-Transitioning and longing to return to their birth sex over remaining transgender once they enter adulthood. As adults, you can make whatever decision you would like. As a child, greater care of mind and body need to be taken. It is not a schools job to do so, leaving parents in the dark. This policy does not ostracize trans kids. It doesn't say trans kids can't exist peacefully in schools. Its just saying as a person who may not agree to this indoctrination of children I still has a voice. As moral human beings we need to support kids who feel they are in the wrong body instead of telling them if they don't transition they will die otherwise. Again. The statistics just arent there.


Agree with youngkin order

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<p>Agree with youngkin order !!! </p>


Support! Yes! Thank you Gov. Youngkin!

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Thank you for supporting parents and protecting their children!


STRONGLY OPPOSE new policies that limit trans children's safety and privacy

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Parental autonomy over their children's education and upbringing has limits, as all rights do. Parents are not permitted to abuse or neglect their children. Although most parents are well intentioned, some parents will abuse or neglect their trans children if they find out their children are identifying differently at school than the parents would wish. Some children are in legitimate danger because of their trans identity and need the support of professional experts that schools provide, such as counselors, who are better equipped to understand and protect psychological safety for children than the average parent is. Let's be clear: schools should be focused on kids, not parents. Kids come first.


I support the Gov's revised guidelines. Compassion, with parents still in charge of educating kids.

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Parents can't be in the dark about their children.  They are the primary educators.


Strongly oppose Youngkin and nearly everything he stands for.

Transgender rights are human rights.  You cannot force people to hate each other, nor can you force them to discriminate.  I stand by the protesting students and hope they will continue to do the right thing, regardless of what reactionaries try to force upon them.I stand against the rise of fascism in this country, and everything that supports it - racism, transphobia, homophobia, religious discrimination, the anti-science movement, and the degradation of the democratic process.  We will not allow the United States to become another Nazi Germany.Transgender kids harm absolutely no one.  Leave them alone.

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Transgender rights are human rights.  You cannot force people to hate each other, nor can you force them to discriminate.  I stand by the protesting students and hope they will continue to do the right thing, regardless of what reactionaries try to force upon them.

I stand against the rise of fascism in this country, and everything that supports it - racism, transphobia, homophobia, religious discrimination, the anti-science movement, and the degradation of the democratic process.  We will not allow the United States to become another Nazi Germany.

Transgender kids harm absolutely no one.  Leave them alone.


Oppose trans gender policies

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<p>I oppose trans-gender discrimination policies. No need to go backwards during Youngkin's administration. We need to move forward. </p>


Education/Student Services/Model Policies - Strongly Support

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Regarding the treatment of transgender students in Virginia's Publice Schools, I strongly support the proposed changes as stated. I think it is fair to all.


strongly oppose- support ALL kids

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<p>There is no space for discriminating against kids based on their gender in our schools. The gender binary is a concept, not a fact. Accept the realities of biodiversity and stop bullying children to fit inside of imaginary boxes. Children will die as a result of policies like these. </p>


Strongly Oppose

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<p>This policy inserts the government into conversations best kept between parents, teachers, and students. It is an overreach of the Governor's authority and forces our schools to adopt practices that, at best, are not evidence-based and, at worst, are intended to harm. All students, regardless of their gender identity, deserve safe and inclusive learning environments. I strongly oppose Youngkin's Model Policy. </p>


Kids shouldn’t be transgender

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Greetings,

I support the idea that if you want to be transgender you should have that right to do so.

But I can’t get behind the idea that a kid, at a highly impressionable age should get the idea that that’s ok or it should be accepted.

Being transgender is a huge transformation and with surgery or hormone therapy there are lots of outcomes to consider.

I believe it’s something that needs to play out into adulthood before irreversible or drastic decision is made.

Youngkin is going based off biology and eliminating another Loudon County situation of people who exploit the LGBTQ community as a mask to sexually assault people and potentially eliminates pedophiles from doing the same.


VERY STRONGLY OPPOSE!

I am a parent. I do not want "rights" like this at the expense of my children's rights to privacy. I know many minors in Virginia (through my own children) that would not be safe if this passes. This kind of legislature literally kills children. Some will commit suicide rather than face the abuse and denigration their family would subject them to. Others will die from the abuse directly. Please do not pass this legislation, please consider the safety of our children.ANY PARENT THAT WANTS THIS INFORMATION SHOULD BE THE SUBJECT OF INTENSE SCRUTINIZATION FOR CHILD ABUSE.

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I am a parent. I do not want "rights" like this at the expense of my children's rights to privacy. I know many minors in Virginia (through my own children) that would not be safe if this passes. This kind of legislature literally kills children. Some will commit suicide rather than face the abuse and denigration their family would subject them to. Others will die from the abuse directly. Please do not pass this legislation, please consider the safety of our children.

ANY PARENT THAT WANTS THIS INFORMATION SHOULD BE THE SUBJECT OF INTENSE SCRUTINIZATION FOR CHILD ABUSE.


Thank you Governor  - Strongly support

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Thank you Governor - Strongly support


Strongly support policy from the Governor

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This new policy for our schools will correct the terrible policy ran through by the last governor at the last moment.


Strongly Oppose

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The 2021 Model Policies were a step in the right direction.  The 2022 Model Policies are a step backwards.  The safety and dignity of trans students is not less important than the howling mob of retrograde fearmongers who prefer to pretend trans kids don't exist.  As a Virginian and an American I am appalled and disgusted by Glenn Youngkin's attempts to blather about Constitutional amendments in service of harming the most vulnerable expressly to prop up the prejudices of his deplorable base.  Appalled and disgusted but not surprised that a craven Trump admirer who campaigned on hateful falsehoods and division would attempt to govern the same way.


Strongly Disagree; Alternative Gender Neutral Bathrooms

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This movement of policy reversal is fueled by antagonizing notions of trans people, intolerant religious bias, and poor understanding of the subject matter. If anyone reading this claims to be a "concerned parent", I strongly advise you to do some research. Listen to trans people who are willing to share their experience. Examine why you find LGBT subjects perverse. Probably stay off Twitter for this stuff, and challenge yourself to avoid "comfortable" media sources that fit your current views, and/or where non-trans people lead the discussion.

Children are not "indoctrinated" into being LGBT through school. A child figuring out their identity, trans or otherwise, is a sensitive and private matter that they are entitled to disclose at their own discretion. Schools should not be allowed to violate that private matter by informing the student's parents about.. what? Suspected trans behavior? If the parent's stance on the LGBT community is intolerant or violent, the child has now been put in real danger. Transitioning is still (unfairly) an incredibly convoluted and complex progress that is already very parent-involved for minors; trans minors are not "in danger" of drastically transitioning via their limited freedoms in a school environment, and thus their identity is not eligible for mandatory or conscionable reporting.

Separating bathrooms bilaterally will continue to be an issue, whether this policy is enacted or not. Trans students will continue to feel ostracized regardless of their technical "freedom to choose", because that choice in itself (go to the bathroom corresponding with their gender identity or go to the one they'd stand out less in) will always be uncomfortable. Unisex bathrooms and locker rooms are the solution. Individual cubicles with complete privacy (as opposed to regular stalls) negate concerns about the co-ed space, and allow students' identities to remain more discreet and not interfere with their access to facilities. Entertaining this idea would help to depolarize the discussion; hopefully, it would band together the parents and students who want a safe and happy school environment and separate them from the hateful individuals who merely seek to disenfranchise trans people as much as possible.

It's frustrating that enough people are fearful, uneducated, or hateful enough to have blown this matter out of proportion, whose discomfort must now be indulged to reach a solution. Trans people are human beings, and in this situation, they are children suffering from the ignorance of their caretakers. This new policy will become discriminatory in its application.