Strongly oppose this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly oppose this policy!  Children know who and what they are; they are not taught or groomed to identify as transgender. Telling kids they don’t belong in “normal” society is devastating and very harmful. It is abhorrent for the government to stigmatize vulnerable children in order to advance a politican’s career. The policy goes directly against scientifically based medical and mental health best practices.  Youngkin addresses parental rights for only those who agree with his agenda.  He totally ignores the parental rights of parents who are guiding their transgender children through a very difficult process and also ignores the parental rights of any parent who wants their children to be taught tolerance and respect for each and every one of their classmates.  I write this as a retired public school teacher who has personal knowledge of several trans kids.  </p>


Rescind the proposed model policies, which are contrary to state law

<!DOCTYPE html>

VDOE should rescind the proposed model policies, because they are not evidence-based best practices, they are rooted in harmful stereotypes and assumptions about transgender children, and they will inflict harm on the most vulnerable students in Virginia's schools. Trans and non-binary students deserve to feel safe, welcomed, included, and valued at school. This requires school staff and other students to respect and affirm their identities by using their preferred pronouns and names. Students who do not find this sort of support at school are more likely to experience mental health problems and worse academic outcomes. Unfortunately, not all parents are supportive of their children's identities, and outing children to unsupportive parents will expose these kids to abuse, mistreatment, and homelessness. The way that schools treat and interact with trans and nonbinary students can truly have life-or-death consequences. These proposed model policies will create real, lasting, and severe harms for the thousands of trans and nonbinary students in Virginia's schools. The VDOE must do better, and should leave in place the model policies adopted in 2021.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

All students should be safe to express their true selves and reach their true potential. The proposed policies would be detrimental to our community as a whole by excluding and refusing to support our most vulnerable students from expressing their very identity.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this proposed policy


I oppose the policy proposal targeting trans/nonbinary students

I oppose the proposed reversal of existing protections for trans kids in the VA school system. As a graduate of Arlington County Public Schools I can affirm how important it is to have trust between teachers and students, and the necessity for students to feel safe at school as a prerequisite to learning. If these proposed rule changes are enacted, there is no doubt that academic outcomes will be reduced and test scores will go down.Transition and name/pronoun changes are an inherently personal process and it is up to each individual to manage when and to who they transition. The proposal which would require schools to out students to their parents is a huge breach of trust and just plain unethical. Students going through a social transition must be empowered to come out to their parents in their own time and in their own way.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I oppose the proposed reversal of existing protections for trans kids in the VA school system. As a graduate of Arlington County Public Schools I can affirm how important it is to have trust between teachers and students, and the necessity for students to feel safe at school as a prerequisite to learning. If these proposed rule changes are enacted, there is no doubt that academic outcomes will be reduced and test scores will go down.\n\nTransition and name/pronoun changes are an inherently personal process and it is up to each individual to manage when and to who they transition. The proposal which would require schools to out students to their parents is a huge breach of trust and just plain unethical. Students going through a social transition must be empowered to come out to their parents in their own time and in their own way."}'>I oppose the proposed reversal of existing protections for trans kids in the VA school system. As a graduate of Arlington County Public Schools I can affirm how important it is to have trust between teachers and students, and the necessity for students to feel safe at school as a prerequisite to learning. If these proposed rule changes are enacted, there is no doubt that academic outcomes will be reduced and test scores will go down.

Transition and name/pronoun changes are an inherently personal process and it is up to each individual to manage when and to who they transition. The proposal which would require schools to out students to their parents is a huge breach of trust and just plain unethical. Students going through a social transition must be empowered to come out to their parents in their own time and in their own way.


I Oppose the Guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am trans non-binary and it absolutely breaks my heart that those in power would rather see trans children dead than educate themselves on trans issues and what it means to be trans. I live everyday in fear. Fear that my instructors or fellow students will refuse to use my name and pronouns or refuse to allow me to participate in lessons due to my identity. Fear that I will be assaulted or harassed trying to use the restroom. Fear that those I love will abandon me when they find out who I am. \n\nThe only reason I am still alive is because my teachers and fellow students were allowed to use my name and pronouns and I had the freedom to express myself the way that I needed to. Taking that right away from students and teachers will kill children. There have been multiple studies to prove that when trans children are less likely to kill themselves when they are supported by those around them.  Trans youth are 7.5 times more likely to kill themselves than their cisgender peers. \n\nIn supporting anti-trans legislation you are confirming that you are okay with seeing children die. I am begging you, please don't kill us."}">I am trans non-binary and it absolutely breaks my heart that those in power would rather see trans children dead than educate themselves on trans issues and what it means to be trans. I live everyday in fear. Fear that my instructors or fellow students will refuse to use my name and pronouns or refuse to allow me to participate in lessons due to my identity. Fear that I will be assaulted or harassed trying to use the restroom. Fear that those I love will abandon me when they find out who I am.

The only reason I am still alive is because my teachers and fellow students were allowed to use my name and pronouns and I had the freedom to express myself the way that I needed to. Taking that right away from students and teachers will kill children. There have been multiple studies to prove that when trans children are less likely to kill themselves when they are supported by those around them. Trans youth are 7.5 times more likely to kill themselves than their cisgender peers.

In supporting anti-trans legislation you are confirming that you are okay with seeing children die. I am begging you, please don't kill us.


OPPOSE: Contradicts modern medical and psychiatric practices

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Youngkin's policy is unscientific and designed purely to agitate for votes, regardless of the intense harm and additional stigma that the medical community agrees it will inflict on transgender children. If implemented, it will contribute to suicides and lifelong trauma. There is no scientific reason to do this and children should not be demonized for political gain. For this reason, I strongly OPPOSE this measure."}">Youngkin's policy is unscientific and designed purely to agitate for votes, regardless of the intense harm and additional stigma that the medical community agrees it will inflict on transgender children. If implemented, it will contribute to suicides and lifelong trauma. There is no scientific reason to do this and children should not be demonized for political gain. For this reason, I strongly OPPOSE this measure.


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

Transgender and Non-binary youth deserve to be protected and respected.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support transgender and non-binary youth


Protect Trans and Non-binary Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support transgender and non-binary students in Virginia and oppose Governor Youngkin's discriminatory and harmful proposal.


Fully Support.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Fully Support this change in guidance.  The rights of parents to be informed of their children’s school activities and to be fully cognizant of the choices of their minor children should always take precedence over the state. </p>


transgender student policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I vehemently oppose this hateful policy. It places these already very vulnerable children at risk of abuse by intolerant parents. It also demeans them in the school environment. It places so called "parental rights" above the welfare of children in an effort to establish bigoted social norms.


As a teacher, I'm strongly opposed to this!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Kids are already stressed enough and allowing them the opportunity to present however they wish has no impact on you or your student. Just because you're uncomfortable with something because you're a loser doesn't mean you need to dictate how other people live their lives. Suicide rates drop when students have the ability to choose. Talk about indoctrinating kids - the republicans definitely are with their inability to separate church and state. </p>


We strongly support the proposed changes to school policy documents by Gov Younkin

Concerned Prince William County grandparents

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As parents of kids and grandkids involved with Prince William County we endorse a movement away from the 'new thinking' infecting the school systems and other aspects of our culture.  Between the issues of transgender 'rights' in sports, bathrooms, gender pronouns, COVID lockdowns,  indoctrination in queer culture acceptance as normal, and history re-interpretation, common sense is being swept away for the next generations of young, impressionable kids.  May it never be.  Gov Youngkin is definitely on target, and we hope and pray this is just the start of movements back to teaching solid fundamentals of math, literature, science, art, and history.  Let parents decide how and when their children should be exposed/indoctrinated into fringe belief systems, not the government or school systems.  </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


Destiny is right. And you can pee wherever you want I’m CA… even outside.


Support For Parental Rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the governor's parental rights legislation.  It is the God given responsibility of parents to provide the guidance their children need.  Any and all guidance/counseling by school personnel must be with the knowledge and approval of parents.


Trans Female in California shout out to all Virginia trans. Come to California!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

You will love it here in California. It’s really sunny and people here love to use whatever pronoun we come up with. Bring all your trans friends and come right away.


Strongly oppose-trans kids are not predators!

<!DOCTYPE html>

I cannot believe some of these comments that think there are minors trying to sneak into the opposite sex bathroom in a predatory way. Children who have sexually abused other children are usually living in psychiatric facilities. If they are in public schools, they almost definitely have a behavior plan in place that protects themself and others because of their history. Transgender and nonbinary students are not predators. They are just being themselves, and want to pee while they're at school in the room where they feel they belong. Research shows that transgender people are way more likely to be victims than perpetrators of those crimes. Use your brain, read actual research, and you won't have to live with this fear that a kid who you don't understand will harm your child. Honestly, it's as bad as the white parents 100 years ago who thought that their white child might get sick or something if they touched a black kid. It was uninformed, and I think they realized later they were wrong. Be on the right side of history and protect transgender and nonbinary students and oppose this policy!


Trans Female in California shout out to all Virginia trans. Come to California!!


We were NEVER taught this BS in school!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

Completely opposed to this nonsense agenda as these are CHILDREN!!! Teach them the basics and leave these gross books out of the school libraries!!! Disgusting!!!


I strongly support.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Removing the rights of parents in their children's lives is detrimental to the children, the family, and society. Current transgender policies help no one and distract from learning. All children deserve the love, protection, leadership, and authority that parenting and the family unit provide. Quit trying to divide children from those who love them the most. Activists don't care about our kidms,they care about their cause


Fully Support


Changes are common sense and protect parental rights


Virginian who supports parental rights and supports the change

<!DOCTYPE html>

Please implement the changes.


Trans Female in California shout out to all Virginia trans. Come to California!


Trans Female in California shout out to all Virginia trans- come to California-


I fully oppose this.


I oppose this fully.


Trans female in California shout out to all Virginia trans- come to California


Parents know their child

<!DOCTYPE html>

The VA education system has become a breeding ground for immorality and liberal ideals. Mental illness is no longer mental illness but an acceptable form of behavior.

We don't allow short skirts and shirtless children in schools because the behavior is distracting. If a transchild chooses to dress in a decent manner that is their choice.  However, bathrooms are still based on their current reproductive organs. Or they can use the private bathroom in the nurses office.

We've seen LGBTQ hijacked by pedophiles trying to make adult-child behavior acceptable. This was mentioned years ago by law enforcement monitoring chat rooms. The chatter was correct.  Gays have been around forever. Lesbians have been around forever. Transvestites have been around forever. But they blended into common decency with their actions and dress and no one minded or paid attention.  Now it's become how much of an attention grabbing freak can I be so I can cry oppression when someone says something.

Let's get back to education. These issues are family issues not government issues.


Trans female in California shout out to all Virginia trans- come to California.


I absolute oppose Glenn Youngkin’s bigoted anti-trans student policy.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p style="text-align: justify;">I absolutely oppose Glenn Youngkin’s bigoted anti-trans student policy. He should be deeply ashamed of the harm that he is doing to children and he will go down in history as dishonorable as George Wallace, Orval Faubus, Bull Connor and Joseph McCarthy. For shame, Glenn. I thought you were a decent person. I was sadly, deeply mistaken. </p>


Trans female in California shout out to all Virginia trans- come to California!!!


Trans female in California shout out to all Virginia trans- come to California!!


I oppose these policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

The policies Youngkin is proposing are harmful to transgender youth. It can be hard to understand that they are harmful if you are not trans yourself, which is why you should listen to the trans people criticizing these policies.

You will drive young trans kids to depression and suicide if you continue to try and take away their safety and their resources. They aren’t being influenced, and they aren’t a threat to anyone. They deserve to live happy, safe lives, and you will be taking that away if you go through with these policies.


Trans female in California shout out to all Virginia trans- come to California!


I STRONGLY OPPOSE Youngkin's hateful 2022 model

<!DOCTYPE html>

Transgender and non-binary students in Virginia deserve a safe school environment. All students deserve the freedom to fully express their authentic selves free from harassment. Youngkins proposed guidelines target and stigmatize transgender and non-binary students and threaten their safety and wellbeing – both in school and at home.

Schools are often the only safe place for transgender and non-binary youth, but this proposed model policy could force teachers and counselors to disclose confidential records with no regard for whether it puts a student in harm’s way. According to The Trevor Project, 60% of queer youth live in a home that is not affirming. Telling our transgender and non-binary students they will either be outed or forced back into the closet will lead to a life-time of mental health trauma. Schools with student groups affirming all genders and sexual orientations have been shown to have less truancy and better health outcomes for all students.

Virginia schools should seek to grow and support these groups to improved student outcomes. School policy should focus on education, not discrimination. Addressing learning gaps and mental health challenges that arose during the pandemic. Instead, Youngkin is sacrificing the wellbeing of transgender and non-binary kids to score political points.

If this policy was truly about parental rights – parents would be able to request the school address their child as they wish to be addressed.


Approving the Governor’s proposal

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Just as parents must be told of any teaching event or circumstance in which their child participates, is involved with, or has problems with, parents must also be appraised of their child’s physical, emotional, or psychological health and anything that may impact it. The onus is on the parents; the responsibility is for the parents’. It MUST be illegal for the school or any teacher, however well-meaning, to supplant it. </p>


Govenor Youngkin's Transgender School Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a grandmother of a High School Student who struggles with Gender Dysphoria.

Our family is supporting them by loving, listening, learning, and making sure they have a professional therapist to talk to.

I can't imagine parents being excluded from such an important aspect of their child's life.

It is not the Schools role to step in and take this responsibility on.

Thank you for taking the time to read my comments.


put parents back in control

<!DOCTYPE html>

put parents back in control.  support Youngkin's proposal.


Support for new policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a society, we protect our children in many ways. We don’t allow them to make some important decisions without parental consent or involvement. My child could not get married at age 16 without my involvement; she could not move out of my home; she couldn’t go on a school sponsored field trip without my consent. If my CHILD is thinking about fundamentally changing her social, legal, physical and psychological identity, I should have the right to know and guide her in making that decision. As a parent, the schools ask me to partner with them to improve my child’s educational outcomes. How can we be partners in my child’s educational journey if school personnel are keeping secrets from me about important aspects of my child’s life?  Some opponents of this policy protest that, parental knowledge of a child’s gender identity issues, will put that child in danger of physical harm at the hands of the parents or homelessness. Again, as a society, we have laws and authorities to protect children from abuse and neglect.

If school divisions wish to provide additional resources such as gender neutral restrooms, counseling, etc., they can do so. However, our children without gender identity issues should feel protected in their schools as well.  And parents should not be treated as their childen’s enemies


Princess Grace Hospital in London - God forbid we ever get here.  Please SUPPORT

Cristina - hope I don't have to go to that hospital! SCARY STUFF

An anonymous sexual assault victim needed critical colorectal surgery and requested all-female care.  This is appropriate and understandable.  Then mockingly and cruelly, while she was waiting in pre-op, a biological male with wig and make-up opened the door and made eye contact with her. As though to suggest he would be on her healthcare team.  Rather than care for the sick, the hospital chose to cancel the critical surgery  to "protect staff from unacceptable distress..."  So the trans nurse's mental health and distress (which is a joke if he has the ability to mock her) is more important than the sick patient.  This is a sexual assault victim who requested all-female facility.  "It was a slow, dawning realization (that I had probably been targeted bc of my request).  I felt sick. ... I cannot describe the fear I felt.  I cannot rationalize it."  What sexual assault victim would be able to describe or rationalize it?TOO MUCH!  TOO FAR!  The protected are the bullies!

<!DOCTYPE html>

An anonymous sexual assault victim needed critical colorectal surgery and requested all-female care.  This is appropriate and understandable.  Then mockingly and cruelly, while she was waiting in pre-op, a biological male with wig and make-up opened the door and made eye contact with her. As though to suggest he would be on her healthcare team.  Rather than care for the sick, the hospital chose to cancel the critical surgery  to "protect staff from unacceptable distress..."  So the trans nurse's mental health and distress (which is a joke if he has the ability to mock her) is more important than the sick patient.  This is a sexual assault victim who requested all-female facility.  "It was a slow, dawning realization (that I had probably been targeted bc of my request).  I felt sick. ... I cannot describe the fear I felt.  I cannot rationalize it."  What sexual assault victim would be able to describe or rationalize it?

TOO MUCH!  TOO FAR!  The protected are the bullies!


Please stop harming  living children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Please don’t use the Bible to justify harming people.  Stop using the name of Jesus to justify  your hatred.  </p>


Majority Rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor Younghkin's Guidelines are appropriate for protecting the rights of the 99%+ youth who are not trans or LGBTQ+. They have a right to segregated bathrooms. They have a right to compete against members of their own gender. Their parents have a right to restrict their children's education to basic values of reading, writing, math, and (correct) history. Do what we elected you to do.


Who do you think loves a child more - his/her parents or some random teacher?

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The same people who wanted to keep the schools closed against all the available research that it is detrimental to children’s development, now want us to believe they hold a  child’s  best interest closer to heart than the child’s own parents. Mm-hm. Yeah. Right. </p>


Support Governor Youngkin's Transgender School Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

The push toward identifying children as transgender will come to be one of this nation's most serious flaws, with catastrophic results. Children are young bodies filled with uncertainties of every kind. If a student is contemplating their gender identity, they have a lifetime to resolve it, and making a life-altering decision before the pre-frontal lobe is fully developed is sheer foolishness. The sanctity of the family needs to be upheld. Parents are accountable for their children's well being, and the schools need to go back to teaching the basics. Teachers need to be professional in every way, and not advocates for gender studies of any kind.


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Being a parent of a 22 year old transfemale, I have already gone through the "hoops" of transitioning in Hanover County.  There is absolutely NO reason for the School Board to receive any paperwork regarding any personal business of any student.  These decisions and the information needed to get name changes and birth certificates amended are between the parent and the child and only after it has been completed does anyone at the school need to be informed.  The child should have counselors at the schools who understand gender dysphoria and are prepared to deal with all that goes with that, but NO parent should be kept from knowing this information.  All of these decisions are between the parent, the child, their doctors and whoever THEY decide needs to know.  The government should have NO say in whether this is alright or "normal".  I do agree with the fact that there needs to be a bathroom policy that supports everyone, and that begins with eliminating urinals and having doors on every stall in every bathroom.  I also think that there should be limits to who can play which sport based on height and weight, instead of gender.  You will notice that I do not use the word "sex" because that is an action.  Female is my gender.  Sex is something that I have with my husband.  This is something that people need to get straight.  I support Glenn Youngkin as my Governor, but the government needs to stay OUT of personal business, period.  Thank you.


Vehemently oppose Youngkin's policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a parent, grandparent, and retired educator I vehemently oppose this proposed policy.  There is no rationale that can support this cruel and demeaning policy aimed at transgender children who are trying to identify who they are and grow up in a world that might not accept them for who they are.  </p>


Thank you Gov. Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

For being brave enough to stand up for parent's rights.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


SUPPORT - big lack of quality research showing interventions improve mental health or prevent suicid

Abel Garcia, detransitioner's words for me

<!DOCTYPE html>

Medically transitioned at 19, now regrets it.  "I am (against the push that schools are doing) towards children with the transgender ideology ... I cannot expect a child - a high school, middle, or elementary {aged} child - to understand the full extent of the damage that will be done to their bodies, if an adult like myself wasn't able to."  Don't push this on kids at school.  Teach them academics and let parents deal with the rest.


Approve of new policy. Remove 2021 policy for safety of ALL students!

<!DOCTYPE html>

This 2021 model policy was completely skewed to a liberal ideology and backed by phony science “supporting” affirmation with literally no evidence it works in the long term or with a sample size bigger than a small classroom. All long term evidence points to the fact that suicidal ideation is exponentially higher in transgender individuals regardless of society’s affirmation. Many who later in life have affirmation surgical procedures performed still commit suicide at a rate 19 times higher than that of the general population (a study conducted over 30 years…not from responses to a subjective survey with a timeframe of 6 months). The old policies push a corrupt ideological system at odds with science and common sense and puts all students, including those suffering from gender dysphoria, at higher risk of harm. I fully support rejecting those old policies and implementing the new policies. Some federal court cases need to be revisited as well.

To any trans identifying student reading this please know you are being lied to. Your body is inherently hardwired right down to your DNA to be a man or woman and every day you wake up trying to be the opposite your body will never stop reminding you (no matter what interventions are used). You are fearfully and wonderfully made and so what if you don’t fit perfectly in the box…that doesn’t mean the best version of you is not fully corresponding to your sex. You were meant to be exactly what you are and there is no need to dream up a fantasy that will always leave you disappointed in the end. The world will tell you folks who don’t affirm you don’t love you the way you are when it is those very people who are saying you are not enough just as you are! Truth is not subjective and when you accept yourself for who you were made to be you will begin to heal and thrive!


TOO MUCH WAS REMOVED - I OPPOSE THE NEW FRAMEWORK STRONGLY

<!DOCTYPE html>

When I compare last year's Model Policies for Transgender students to the new policy, it is disappointing that you have removed continuous education for teachers/administrators to help them understand Transgender youth. Helping your educators learn more about what it means for young people who identify at Transgender does not mean they have to agree with it. You don't get to say public schools are for the benefit of all students and then try to ignore that a whole group of kids don't exist.

Being Transgender is not something kids do so they can go in a different bathroom. They are not making up reasons to cause trouble. Students in K-12 are learning who they are as they grow and school should be a safe place of acceptance.

I believe teachers should have to use the pronouns the child and their family request. I am not sure when gender and the use of preferred pronouns became a religious belief.

I believe that Transgender students along with their parents should retain the right to have their preferred name used on all school documents and with all teachers. This comes with the understanding that legal transcripts will still reflect their birth name and gender until that is approved by the courts.

I believe that if a student is Transgender and has had their preferred name changed in all school systems visable to teachers, they should be able to use the restroom of their preferred gender.

It is time for people to learn more about those who have made this difficult choice to transition and stop acting like it means they have a perverted view of sexuality or that they will be social deviants.

Some parts of this new Model Policy take us too far back to the days of closeted youth who struggle and wind up hurting themselves. It is unacceptable.


ALX CYFCC OPPOSES these harmful policies

Jessy Cuddy, ALX Children, Youth, and Families Collaborative Commission

<!DOCTYPE html>

At a duly called meeting on October 12, 2022, the Children, Youth, & Families Collaborative Commission (CYFCC) of the City of Alexandria, Virginia, voted unanimously to OPPOSE the Department of Education’s Guidance Document on “Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools.”

The CYFCC believes:

No child should be subjected to rejection due to their self-identity. As early as age 3, children are beginning to develop their sense of identity. “Who am I?” and “do I have worth?” are the questions that young children are asking every day as they grow. If that sense of self is eroded, the results can be devastating. As the President of the American Academy of Pediatrics recently noted, “the emotional and psychological trauma of rejection, whether by family, friends, society, or lawmakers, can leave scars that never heal.?When we fail to accept people for who they are, we pass painful judgements on them and create so much unnecessary emotional and psychological pain.” No child should feel such rejection.

No child should be put at risk of emotional and physical harm. These proposed policies presume that all transgender and non-binary youth have loving and supportive families. Sadly, that is not the case. Forcing a child to get documentation from their parents confirming that their gender differs from their sex assigned at birth could endanger those who live in households where they are not affirmed. According to the Trevor Project, 60% of queer youth live in homes that are not accepting. These proposed policies would say to transgender and non-binary students that they must choose between disrupting their family life, risking emotional and sometimes physical harm, and being able to be who they are in their school environment.

Every school in Virginia should be a safe haven for every student. These proposed policies seek to restrict which bathrooms transgender and non-binary students can use, force students to participate in events, sports and other school activities based on their sex assigned at birth and hinder the ability of teachers and staff to offer any support, without also outing the student to parents. Why would we compromise the health and safety of any child enrolled in our public schools? Every school in Virginia should be a haven for every student, not another venue for discrimination and trauma.

Targeting some of the most vulnerable children in our schools not only undermines their ability to pursue an education, it also undermines our educational system as a whole and contributes to the already high number of LGBTQ+ students who attempt suicide. The Trevor Project’s 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that more than 42% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth. However, LGBTQ youth who had access to LGBTQ-affirming spaces — including schools — reported lower rates of attempting suicide than those who did not.

The CYFCC is wholly devoted to the advocacy of policies that ensure that the children of Alexandria, Virginia can thrive, today and tomorrow. Commission members’ vision is that all children, youth, and families are physically safe and healthy, that all children and youth are academically successful and career ready and that all children, youth and families have positive experiences.

The Department of Education’s Guidance Document on “Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools” undermines this vision, and, therefore, we strongly object to its adoption.


Common Sense for the Commonwealth

<!DOCTYPE html>

I can't believe we even need to waste time on something like this but I'm not surprised since we have a Supreme Court judge now that can't define what a woman is. God help us. Thank you Youngkin administration for restoring some common sense.


per Cattinson, molecular biologist and detransitioner - SUPPORT

per Cat Cattinson, molecular biologist and detransitioner

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>" ... I'm concerned about the messaging directed at kids by the school surrounding gender identity ideology, " said Cat Cattinson,a 30-yr old molecular biologist and detransitioned woman who believed she was a boy AFTER BEING INTRODUCED TO gender ideology at 13 yrs old.  "I began identifying as {a man and that belief} negatively affected me for the next fifteen years.... I think that instead, we need to tell kids they don't need to change themselves to be themselves.  {Furthermore and finally ...} there is a serious lack of quality research that any of these interventions improve mental health or prevent suicide in the long term"  Cattinson also said she obtained her Rx for testosterone from Planned Planned parenthood after a 30-minute phone call.  KEEP PARENTS INFORMED.</p>


Trans rights are human rights!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS! </p>


Protect trans and non-binary youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

This bill goes completely against our rights let leave trans and non-binary youth alone. I strongly oppose this bill. As an adult non-binary person please protect our youth.


I support trans right and I am against the new model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

My name is Mitch, or Michelle, Chan. I prefer to be called Mitch. And I go by she/they pronouns. I live in Alexandria, Virginia. I strong oppose the newly proposed Model Policies. They disregard the rights of students and put them at risk. Students should not be outed to their parents when they are not ready. Students deserve to choose which bathrooms they want to use and how they want to participate in sports. They should have not have to proved themselves. It is ridiculous that we are making basic human needs more difficult.

As someone who came out to their parents at the age of 27, I can attest that it would have been very dangerous for me to come out to my parents before I was ready. My parents are not supportive of my being queer. Had I come out to them before I was ready, I would have likely had to face homelessness. It would have probably exacerbated an already tense living situation for myself. Having the choice to figure out how and when I wanted to come out to my parents has been critical to my survival. It was important to me to establish a living situation for myself before I came out to them.

I am asking that you rescind these model policies that would put queer and trans students' lives at risk.


Transgender policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Me and my household completely support Governor Youngkin's transgender policy in our public schools. Stand strong for our children Governor we are relying on you to do the right thing.


Transgender Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am in favor of the adoption of this policy.  Children belong to their parents, not to the state.  Schools are charged with teaching facts.  If they cannot be trusted to teach the fact that there are only two sexes, then how can they be trusted to teach the fact that two plus two equals four?


Support gender nonconforming kids by SUPPORTING these model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

Young people who latch onto the idea of gender transition due to anxiety, social isolation, neurodivergency, or simple adolescent questioning don't benefit when schools give them the message that their parents can't be trusted with this information. Gender identity ideology teaches kids that gender noncomformity is something that needs to be treated medically and surgically. Forcing this ideology on everyone doesn't prevent bullying; it IS the bullying.


Y’all would rather have your kid dead than support your kids gender fluidity. Do not support.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>You wonder why your kids grow up and despise you. Why your kids don’t want anything to do with you and you do things like this, support bills like this.  I do not support this bill, kids are people too. NO MORE DEAD KIDS. </p>


Ignore the bots - sanity must reign

<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor,

Please ignore the ridiculous bots. This is exactly what a socialist struggle session looks like. There are far more parents, who actually LOVE their children and do what they can to protect and love them, than there are freaks such as those who would jeopardize their children.

This insanity must stop. Carry on with your policy.


VDOE's newly proposed Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Gov Youngkin is doing exactly what he was elected to do with the drafting of these new Model Policies.   If someone else had been elected they would be expected to do what they promised to do while campaigning.  Elected officials are supposed to keep their promises and when they dont they often get voted out of office. This is one of the great things about our form of government. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>


Opposed - No more dead kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

When trans kids have a safe and supportive environment, suicide rates drop. When they don’t have a supportive environment, suicide rates go up. The proposed policy removes what little support trans kids have. It will not make anyone safer. It will only put more kids at risk of suicide.

We don’t want to turn straight kids into queer kids. We just want queer kids to stop turning into dead kids.


Filter the liberal manipulation from my children's education - Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The US society is imploding into a madness. With 90% of liberal media in this country - the critical issues such as infrastructure and education take second seat to rights of less than 1% of the society. Absolute madness.  </p>


Model Policies on the privacy, dignity, and respect for all in Virginia's public schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

 I am in AGREEMENT with the new proposed policy guidance:  2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools.

Sincerely,

Laura Coffey


I support Gov. Youngkin’s policies/guidance.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I absolutely support Gov. Youngkin and his policies and guidance. Virginia school boards are over stepping boundaries.  I believe in Parental rights.  Stop the indoctrination and teach the basics.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


I support Trans Youth and adults

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Trans youth deserve the right to express the sex they feel is correct for them. This is a medical decision and not the business of government. Schools should be allowed to support trans youth. If trans and LGBTQIA children are not allowed to express themselves suicide rates will rise (it is already very high) among these children. These children need a safe environment to be themselves and should not be subject to the disgusting prejudices of scared adults. Studies show that youth know they are transgender/ LGBTQIA at a young age and suppressing this causes severe consequences with these youth. Do you want to ruin the mental health of youth because you are uncomfortable ? That is incredibly selfish. VA youth deserve better than bigotry. I will not spend another penny in VA if this passes. </p>


I support the new policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Finally, we have a politician who's willing to listen to the majority of his constituents instead of catering to the minority special interest.  The former policy which exposed 99% of students to compromising and uncomfortable situations presented by 1% of students embracing alternate lifestyles was ludicrous.  It is a accommodating and acceptable to provide those with alternate lifestyles with a non-gender specific restroom facility as opposed to forcing a situation where they are in facilities with the opposite gender. Gender is not an opinion or a feeling it's science based on chromosomes and anatomy, and it's time to acknowledge science in the decision making for our schools. Thank you Governor Younkin!


Oppose - suicide rates decline when youth have support not restrictions

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the proposed "Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools".  All the research shows that youth are much more likely to attempt suicide if they are not allowed the basic freedom of living their own identity (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0886260520915554; https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2022/#challenges ; https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2020/?section=Suicide-Mental-Health).  Restrictions (such as lack of choice in pronoun use, lack of ability to use restrooms according to gender identity, etc.) only make them see certain identities as hateful.  In other words, such restrictions teach them to hate others and hate themselves.  Parents might not know about the research showing that, biologically, humans can have a range of identities (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6677266/) and consequently those parents might believe that it's appropriate to impose restrictions on their children, but neither they nor the state can impose such restrictions on the schools, where such policies harm not only their own children, but the whole community.

In contrast, when youth live in a largely accepting community that tolerates a range of identities, the whole community benefits.  Accepted youth are happier youth, and happier youth contribute more to their communities.

The proposed guidance talks a lot about beliefs, but this matter is not about beliefs: scientific research shows the danger of imposing identities on individuals and the natural occurence of a range of identities (see links above).  If individual parents think that their religious beliefs are more important than what the science shows, they have the 14th-Amendment freedom to send their children to religious schools. If individual teachers or staff have a problem with accepting the science and using pronouns in accordance with a student's request, then they can take their 1st-Amendment speech to a different job.  The government is not acting unconstitutionally when it keeps church and state separate.  Public schools simply cannot be limited by religious beliefs that are in opposition to scientific fact or to basic human kindness.


Protect Parents and Majority kids' human rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

Not against minority rights.

But as a parent I am in full support of parental right to decide. Parents provide education from the moment the child is born. Parents make decisions about child's life from the moment of birth. Children are parental responsibility - moral and financial.


Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the policy. It allows for parents to be involved and know what is going on while also making an attempt to prevent what happened in Loudon schools.


If you care about kids, you would protect trans kids too.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Life is hard enough for trans people, let alone trans youth. There’s no reason for these policies to be so combative against them- they’re kids! personally, I would much rather have a happy and healthy trans child than have a depressed and emotionally stunted child living their life in the closet out of fear. Just be kind, if you really care about kids you would care about trans kids too.


I SUPPORT YOUNKINS POLICIES

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Wholeheartedly agree. Nothing more to be said here. </p>


Protect Trans Youth

Anonymous (b/c people can't seem to disagree without threats and violence)

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose this horrific guidance that purports to support parental rights. Governor Youngkin, you are overreaching and pandering to those who seek to use religion as a cudgel to bring everyone else in line with their beliefs. I support trans kids having their rights protected and expect my state of Virginia to mind its own business. Stop letting hate strip away the dignity of trans youth. Stop taking us backward with this draconian thinking. Virginia needs forward-thinking, equity-based leadership and law. Come into the current times, Mr. Youngkin, and back off. I am a parent and you are WRONG about this. You should be doing more to keep the public OUT of the private lives of Virginia citizens. This is a disgrace and I am ashamed of this "leadership" you are providing.


I support Gov. Younkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

Don't be swayed by those opposing this revised Model Policy.  You were voted governor because the majority of Virginian's support your views and agree with you!


Strongly support


I support Parents' rights to care for their children

<!DOCTYPE html>

I believe that parents should not be prohibited from important information regarding their own children. Gender dysphoria is a real struggle for teens, and parents can not get them the resources they need if they are not told what their child is going through. Also, it is under the parents' authority to determine what actions are in the best interest of their child.


Support Parents/ Oppose that they know everything

Dr. Mittie T Quinn, George Mason University

<!DOCTYPE html>

Public Comment - Trans Rights in Public Schools

It saddens me deeply to read this new proposal. Gov. Youngkin is yet again trying to take our public schools backward in time. The lack of understanding that his Gubernatorial actions represent is appalling. First the resolution that we cannot teach anything about our US history that makes our students feel “uncomfortable” and now attempting to micro-manage bathrooms in public schools. While I am fully supportive of Virginia parents having an active role in our educational system, I firmly believe that our schools must be institutions that represent the best and the most current understanding of science, math, culture, history, society, and the human experience. As a parent of two, I learned new things by their side as they encountered the most up to date information available regarding all of these topics and more. I remember when each of them attained a level in their studies that surpassed my own. I was in awe of them and of their teachers who work so hard to keep abreast of new ideas and changes in our society in order to prepare them for living in the 21st century.  I OPPOSE this proposal.


PARENTS pay the bills - SUPPORT PARENT RIGHTS

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Any decision about a child belongs to the parent. Including how the child is educated and what values are taught the child. Parents pay for children's education via taxes and this is my decision how my taxes are to be used. </p>
<p> </p>


Strong support this proposal

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parental rights are most important here. They are the ones to help guide a child who may be struggling with gender dysphoria. We must protect our children as well as fundamental religious liberty.


I support 2022 model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support Gov. Youngkin  not allowing males to participate in women's sports.

DO NOT ALLOW MEN IN WOMEN'S BATHROOMS.


Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a parent and grandparent I strongly support Governor Youngkin's model policies for the treatment of transgender students in Virginia public schools. A healthy society is based on a two parent family of a man/husband and women/wife. The American republic was founded on individual responsibility and individual freedom in a moral society. Take these pillars away and society crumbles into chaos.


Strongly Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>We are the first educators of the children. Government members do not have the right to choose what is better for them (our children, we have 4). It’s our constitutional right, </p>


Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism (FAIR) Supports Model Policy

The Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism

<!DOCTYPE html>

The Foundation Against Intolerance & Racism (FAIR) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing civil rights and liberties for all Americans, and promoting a common culture based on fairness, understanding, and humanity. We submit this comment in support of the Virginia Department of Education’s (VDOE) 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools. The model policy, which provides guidance to Virginia public schools on handling gender nonconforming students, should be an example to other states that are attempting to balance the interests of students, parents, and school officials in a way that will create an inclusive school environment for everyone.

The model policy’s primary guiding principle is to ensure that parents have control over “decisions with respect to their children.” Specifically, it upholds the rights of parents under the Fourteenth Amendment by allowing them to take the lead in working with their school to determine the appropriate response to a student’s expressed gender nonconformity. This is significant, as many schools across the country have adopted policies directing or encouraging schools to actively withhold from parents any information indicating their child may have gender dysphoria or is in the gender transition process. Schools should work with parents in ensuring the healthy development of gender nonconforming students. When they conceal gender transition information from parents, it not only violates those parents’ rights under the Fourteenth Amendment, but also denies gender dysphoric students access to the most important resource they have to help them navigate the complexities inherent in gender transition: their parents.

The model policy also protects the First Amendment rights of teachers and students by prohibiting schools from mandating that they adhere to the ideological belief that gender identity is subjectively determined. As the model policy correctly notes, many Virginians (and Americans) do not hold that belief, and many of them strongly oppose it being taught  as unquestionable truth in their childrens’ schools. Similarly, public school teachers should not be compelled to express support for a particular ideology that violates their conscience, religion, or academic freedom, including being mandated to address others by preferred pronouns.

Importantly, the model policy succeeds in reaffirming the primacy of those constitutional rights in Virginia public schools, while also ensuring that gender nonconforming students are made to feel welcome. Students with gender dysphoria are often seen as easy targets for bullying and other acts of hostility, and it is the responsibility of school officials to make clear that such behaviors will not be tolerated. The model policy acknowledges this responsibility, stating explicitly that schools “should attempt to accommodate students with distinctive needs, including any student with a persistent and sincere belief that his or her gender differs from his or her sex,” and that “every effort should be made to ensure that a transgender student wishing to change his or her means of address is treated with respect, compassion, and dignity in the classroom and school environment.”

The vast majority of Virginians share the goal of preventing any student—including gender nonconforming students—from being treated as less deserving of respect than their peers. They also recognize that many issues surrounding gender identity are complicated and involve multiple legitimate interests that frequently conflict with one another. The VDOE’s 2022 model policy does an exemplary job of balancing those competing interests by recognizing constitutional rights while at the same time reaffirming the commitment to creating a welcoming school environment for gender nonconforming students.


How about we get back to academics leave our children alone I support Governor Youngkin 100%l

<!DOCTYPE html>

Our schools are failing across the entire state we need to get back to pure academics!  Clearly the state activists  and federal governments have redefined education.


Parents rights and I support

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thanks Governor Youngkin and I support you on this.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Leave trans and nonbinary kids alone. They are who they say they are and should be free to express themselves. They are not hurting anyone. They are not a threat to anyone. This policy is nothing but fear mongering and bullying of vulnerable youth. It’s a despicable politically motivated move at the expense of trans and nonbinary youth  and their families.


Parent’s Rights. Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

As parents, we are the first educators, we have the right to look for the well being of our children, not any “other ones”. Strongly Suport


Lifelong VA Resident OPPOSED to this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Firstly, I would like to note that I am Christian, I am straight.  I am a mother and an Aunt to school age children who to my knowledge are straight.  I realize that everything is NOT about MY wants and needs and what I think is right.  My children, nieces, and nephews are people and they have wants and needs and the ability to make some choices.  Especially in regards to their own sexual orientation etc.

I am opposed to this policy.  While you may think you’re doing a service for students, families, and the community you are not.

This policy will cause more mental trauma and stress than you are prepared to support.

Furthermore, your duty is to provide education for children.  Your concern should not be how they label themselves in society.

IF you are truly as concerned as you believe you are try doing something to make the environment inclusive such as making facilities co-Ed so children don’t feel awkward and don’t have a lens shining on them when they simply need to pee.

Simply put this isn’t your lane.  Society is changing like it has done for hundreds of years.  Deal with it.  And if you can’t evolve then move out of the spotlight.  And do not try to impose your rigid values on everyone else.


I OPPOSE Gov. Younkin's transphobic policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a former ESOL and elementary school educator, I OPPOSE Gov. Youngkin's policies that would overturn, remove and replace EQUALITY FOR transgender and non-binary youth in Virginia's public schools. ALL STUDENTS have the right to a safe, protective school environment and a right to a bully-free education.


NO to using TAX Proceeds for SEX related minority issues

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>and NO to using tax proceeds for educators who cannot teach our children middle of the road or self respect / conservative values. </p>


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I bonded deeply with my best friend in high school. She came out as trans when she was 23. We are now in our 30s, and I caregave for her gender affirmation surgery last year. My friend told me she knew as a child she lived in a body she wasn't comfortable in and felt something was wrong. She didn't know what trans was until she was an adult. She has told me often, she regrets not learning sooner, and she had no education growing up about what it was that affected her, and didn't know it had a name."}">I bonded deeply with my best friend in high school. She came out as trans when she was 23. We are now in our 30s, and I caregave for her gender affirmation surgery last year. My friend told me she knew as a child she lived in a body she wasn't comfortable in and felt something was wrong. She didn't know what trans was until she was an adult. She has told me often, she regrets not learning sooner, and she had no education growing up about what it was that affected her, and didn't know it had a name.


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support trans and non-binary rights. I oppose any legislation that doesn’t allow trans and non binary people to make their own decisions about their identity, personhood, or making decisions about when to make people aware of their whole identity


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support Trans & Non-Binary students in VA and believe that our schools should be a place that offers a safe and equitable experience to all kids. We must do what we can, where we can, to protect the LGBTQ+ young people in our lives, communities, and schools.


Support Trans and Non Binary Youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

Virginia schools should support all youth equally and respect their decisions regarding gender and sexual orientation. The proposed guidelines do the opposite, and make it impossible for our educators to help our youth grow into the adults they want to become. These guidelines are moving Virginia backwards.


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

The suicide/suicidality rates among transgender youth are truly shocking (in one recent study, 86% of trans youth reported suicidality. (Austin et al, J Interperson Violence 37:NP2696-NP2718, 2022). In the absence of a supportive home environment, a supportive school environment can literally be the difference between life and death for these students. Why not create a school environment that is supportive for ALL students? Note that "supportive" and "comfortable" are not the same thing. The idea that, because the concept of transgenderism makes some students/parents psychologically uncomfortable (or have to think about realities they'd rather avoid), students at actual risk of harm are left to suffer seems cruel and not worthy of our state. I urge you to reconsider this position, which only serves to further harm a vulnerable subset of students.


BS

<!DOCTYPE html>

There are more important agendas than this. I am a trans supporter and I think you need to stop this crap. What the hell is wrong with you! Look at the gun violence and make a smart choice about your alliances.


Current Proposal


Oppose Youngkin's Student Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose Youngkin's Student Policy because forcing teachers to out trans kids opens them up to violence such as abuse from their families.


I oppose the guidance!

I have lived in Fairfax County Virginia my whole life, and recently graduated from high school here. I have many trans and gender non-conforming friends, some of whom are still students at these schools. This includes my younger sibling, who is non-binary and a sophomore in high school. My sibling is lucky enough to be in an environment that is accepting of their gender and pronouns, but many of the transgender students in the state are not in such positions. The proposed guidance would cause transgender teens to be put in incredibly unsafe situations at school, at home, and with themselves and i strictly oppose it. Research has shown that unsupported transgender teens and children are more likely to attempt or commit suicide, and transgender people more likely to be abused, sent to conversion therapy, or kicked out of their homes if forced to come out to those who do not accept their identities.The VDOE should reject the draft policy and protect the rights of transgender youth across the state.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I have lived in Fairfax County Virginia my whole life, and recently graduated from high school here. I have many trans and gender non-conforming friends, some of whom are still students at these schools. This includes my younger sibling, who is non-binary and a sophomore in high school. My sibling is lucky enough to be in an environment that is accepting of their gender and pronouns, but many of the transgender students in the state are not in such positions. The proposed guidance would cause transgender teens to be put in incredibly unsafe situations at school, at home, and with themselves and i strictly oppose it. Research has shown that unsupported transgender teens and children are more likely to attempt or commit suicide, and transgender people more likely to be abused, sent to conversion therapy, or kicked out of their homes if forced to come out to those who do not accept their identities.\n\nThe VDOE should reject the draft policy and protect the rights of transgender youth across the state."}'>I have lived in Fairfax County Virginia my whole life, and recently graduated from high school here. I have many trans and gender non-conforming friends, some of whom are still students at these schools. This includes my younger sibling, who is non-binary and a sophomore in high school. My sibling is lucky enough to be in an environment that is accepting of their gender and pronouns, but many of the transgender students in the state are not in such positions. The proposed guidance would cause transgender teens to be put in incredibly unsafe situations at school, at home, and with themselves and i strictly oppose it. Research has shown that unsupported transgender teens and children are more likely to attempt or commit suicide, and transgender people more likely to be abused, sent to conversion therapy, or kicked out of their homes if forced to come out to those who do not accept their identities.

The VDOE should reject the draft policy and protect the rights of transgender youth across the state.


We need to protect kids from transphobic parents and community members

<!DOCTYPE html>

Under the guise of parents' rights, the 2022 Model Policies treat students as property of their parents and as prisoners of the state rather than as human beings with rights of their own. The existence of transgender people, including transgender children, is not an ideological belief; it is an incontrovertible fact backed by science, medicine, and history. This denial of their existence, however, is undoubtably ideological, especially to the extent that it puts transgender students directly in danger from bigots who may include their own parents. Yes, bigoted and even violent parents exist, and students deserve protection from those parents by way of protecting all students' privacy with respect to their gender identity and expression.

Trans acceptance is not "aimed at achieving cultural and social transformation in schools." Quite to the contrary, the withdrawal of the 2021 Model Policies is what seeks to put Virginia's schools on an imaginary timeline where sociocultural progress hasn't already occurred. According to Pew Research (May 16-22, 2022)[https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2022/06/28/americans-complex-views-on-gender-identity-and-transgender-issues/], 47% of 18-29 year-olds say society hasn't gone far enough in accepting transgender people (compared to 31% who think we've "gone too far"). Trans people also have more supporters than rivals among 30-49 year-olds according to that same survey. Our culture already accepts trans people, but the 2022 Model Policies are trying to turn back the clock, live in denial, and cause harm to trans kids. As recently as the day before submitting this comment, a study in The Lancet re-confirmed a well known statistic: 98% of "people who had started gender-affirming medical treatment in adolescence continued to use gender-affirming hormones at follow-up" 6 years later, as legal adults over 18 years old. [https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2352-4642(22)00254-1/fulltext] Children know who they are. Subjecting them to denial, danger, and humiliation by violating their privacy and proactively protecting their bullies is child abuse. Transphobes, the  ignorant, the malicious, and the willfully misinformed commit that abuse to the detriment of the whole of society.

There are also no grounds to push this hateful guidance on the basis of religious freedom. Religions have no "freedom" to infringe on the rights of others. Religion may not be used as an excuse to demean, degrade, or dehumanize others, nor does it give anyone a license to cause or to increase the suffering of any person or people. The prevention of hate speech (i.e. intentional, repeated, malicious misgendering) is not a compulsion to speak against one's religious beliefs. People who wish to cause harm through misgendering do not need protection, and they must not be permitted to hide cravenly behind the utterly transparent lie that their hateful intentions have a basis in religious belief. Religious freedom is intended to be a shield to protect religious communities from hate, but this guidance uses it as a weapon to forcefully subject children to hate in schools, where they literally are compelled to be by law.

What we need from schools is to prepare children with the intellectual tools required to thrive in an uncertain future. That requires a modern curriculum to be different from whatever the current generation of parents learned in school. It requires uncomfortable truths about history, about people and cultures you don't know, about science that seems scary because it's not what you were taught. Children's ability to thrive in the future is dependent upon giving them the best information society has, the lessons learned from the past, and the ability to discern fact from fiction on their own. Learning requires being exposed to ideas outside of your bubble and interrogating them with genuine curiosity, not fear, and certainly not while being subjected to psychological torment or watching as classmates are tormented.

As a final point, if the 2021 Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students are withdrawn or otherwise rendered less effective, then I will not do any business in Virginia nor with Virginia-based businesses.


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly oppose this policy change- has the potential to harm gender non conforming students; puts teachers in very uncomfortable positions; our public schools must be welcoming to EVERYBODY.


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support trans and non-binary students!


TRANS RIGHTS ARE MINORTY RIGHTS - SUPPORT PARENT RIGHTS

<!DOCTYPE html>

The rest of the globe looks down on the US for taking democracy into the wrong direction.

In no legitimate setting the majority's rights should take second place to minority's concerns - especially if we speak of underage children who are not fully participating members of the society, who are under the full legal obligation of the parents, who have no voting rights, who do not pay taxes which benefit Virginia schools and salaries of educators.


Support trans youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

Hate has no home in VA. We must support trans youth and make school a safe place, for all—not some.


Ally

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans kids don’t leave their rights at the school house gates. Their gender identity is their business alone


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support trans and non-binary youth, and you should too!


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"These policies refer to transgender students as “student(s) with the pervasive and serious belief that his or her gender varies from his or her sex. Trans and gender diverse people do not “believe” things about themselves, they KNOW them— these policies are thinly veiled under the excuse that parents inherently know what is best for their child, but if that were the case we would not have organizations like CPS. These policies were made without keeping in mind how the most vulnerable members of our community will be impacted, and any policy made without taking everyone into consideration is only a vehicle for harassment and stigma."}'>These policies refer to transgender students as “student(s) with the pervasive and serious belief that his or her gender varies from his or her sex. Trans and gender diverse people do not “believe” things about themselves, they KNOW them— these policies are thinly veiled under the excuse that parents inherently know what is best for their child, but if that were the case we would not have organizations like CPS. These policies were made without keeping in mind how the most vulnerable members of our community will be impacted, and any policy made without taking everyone into consideration is only a vehicle for harassment and stigma.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"As a young transgender person, I have had to deal with physical and emotional abuse from my own father. It disgusts me that anyone would think it's okay to possibly out and take away what little saftey these children have. You are putting kids at risk and possible harm. Me being openly transgender resulted with me in the hospital with a broken arm; caused by my own father. His excuse? \"If you want to be a boy so bad, why don't you experience what boys go through.\". I was put in the hospital for wanting to explore my identity and feel more comfortable with who I am. You people are disgusting for wanting to subject children to this sort of threat."}">As a young transgender person, I have had to deal with physical and emotional abuse from my own father. It disgusts me that anyone would think it's okay to possibly out and take away what little saftey these children have. You are putting kids at risk and possible harm. Me being openly transgender resulted with me in the hospital with a broken arm; caused by my own father. His excuse? "If you want to be a boy so bad, why don't you experience what boys go through.". I was put in the hospital for wanting to explore my identity and feel more comfortable with who I am. You people are disgusting for wanting to subject children to this sort of threat.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

i oppose this new policy


Current Proposal

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am in AGREEMENT with this proposal


Support for LGBTQ+ students

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am writing to register my strong opposition to policies proposed by Gov. Youngkin (2022 “Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools”). These proposed policies actually only provide for privacy, dignity, and respect of SOME students.

Schools have the responsibility to care for students during the school day and sometimes longer; the priority needs to be on meeting the needs of the students.  All students deserve and need to feel safe, valued, and part of the community.

My own local School Board said it best, so I will repeat their words here:  “It is unfortunate that the proposed policies were not research-based and are without the input of school divisions and the population most directly and severely affected. We regret that it ignores the experience of divisions that have enacted policies to protect the well-being and the lives of all students.

We urge the Virginia Department of Education to revise these proposed policies, to consult with local school divisions, and to support locally elected school boards in the exercise of their constitutional responsibilities to provide all students with a safe and engaging public education, one that unleashes their highest personal development potential.”


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans and non-binary people just want to exist in peace! Don’t create policies targeting literal children - their gender identity won’t hurt anyone.


Teachers won't comply

<!DOCTYPE html>

Regardless of whether this policy goes through, most teachers just won't follow it. Most teachers, good teachers, know what it means to make school a safe space for their students. That includes trans and non-binary students. Good teachers will continue to keep them safe, despite and in spite of any legal policy like this.


Opposed to Harming Children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I fully oppose the governor's proposed model school policy on transgender and nonbinary youth. This policy will cause direct harm to children who are more likely to feel unwelcome at school, be bullied by their peers, and may have negative consequences by being forced to come out to family members. Suicide rates among transgender youth are already far higher than among the population of large and this policy will make that even worse. Teachers are on the front line of these children’s lives and you will compromise the trust of both parties. Who are you supposed to be protecting, it is certainly not the children or the teachers. Hate has no home in Virginia."}">I fully oppose the governor's proposed model school policy on transgender and nonbinary youth. This policy will cause direct harm to children who are more likely to feel unwelcome at school, be bullied by their peers, and may have negative consequences by being forced to come out to family members. Suicide rates among transgender youth are already far higher than among the population of large and this policy will make that even worse. Teachers are on the front line of these children’s lives and you will compromise the trust of both parties. Who are you supposed to be protecting, it is certainly not the children or the teachers. Hate has no home in Virginia.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

My child started identifying as non binary in 8th. When they don’t feel supported they get migraines. Not supporting these kids puts them at risk. They are people and deserve the same safe environment as everyone else.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Protect trans and non-binary youth. They are who they say they are. Their existence does not harm anyone. Who they are is for them to determine, no one else.


oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I OPPOSE the guidance. Schools need to be safe for all kids, and we need to protect their mental health.


Oppose


Humanity

All humans are entitled to respect and treatment of honor Hitler tried to abolish all Jews because he thought they were subservient. There are NO SUBSERVIENT HUNANS. There are just prejudiced people who think they are better than anyone elseThey need to be pitied

<!DOCTYPE html>

All humans are entitled to respect and treatment of honor Hitler tried to abolish all Jews because he thought they were subservient. There are NO SUBSERVIENT HUNANS. There are just prejudiced people who think they are better than anyone else
They need to be pitied


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I Support Trans & Non-Binary Students in VA and Oppose Youngkin's Student Policy!


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support trans students in schools. Everyone should be able to be addressed and recognized as their true, authentic self. Without fear.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

How someone identifies themselves doesn’t affect you at all.


Regarding the necessity of privacy for students

I am an attorney. I have been working in family, juvenile, and criminal law for over ten years. I am fortunate to have many LGBT friends in my life. I strongly oppose the draft policy. I urge the VDOE to reject it.It is an unfortunate fact that much of the worst abuse suffered by minor children occurs in their own homes. Statistically, parents and other relatives are the biggest danger. It is vitally important that children have access to trusted, uninvolved adults, who are only interested in the best interests of the children. Those adults are very often the teachers and other staff members at public schools. Many children who are exploring LGBT identities may be subject to severe abuse at home, depending on the attitudes of their parents. Just as importantly, many of them may ALREADY be subject to severe abuse at home, based on a perception of LGBT traits by their parents, whether accurate or not. I think most of you are old enough to have known some boy or another whose father decided he was a "sissy" (or even worse language) and decided to beat it out of him. Under the draft policy, a child who was subject to abuse at home because of their perceived gender nonconformity, who went to their teacher with this issue, might have that conversation routed straight back to their parents. This would, obviously, subject them to severe abuse or other punishment. It would dissuade other children from reporting other kinds of abuse, if they saw how their fellow students were "outed."We cannot encourage children to seek safety from those adults they trust, and then betray that trust by alerting their abusers, or potential abusers.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am an attorney. I have been working in family, juvenile, and criminal law for over ten years. I am fortunate to have many LGBT friends in my life. I strongly oppose the draft policy. I urge the VDOE to reject it.\n\nIt is an unfortunate fact that much of the worst abuse suffered by minor children occurs in their own homes. Statistically, parents and other relatives are the biggest danger. It is vitally important that children have access to trusted, uninvolved adults, who are only interested in the best interests of the children. Those adults are very often the teachers and other staff members at public schools. \n\nMany children who are exploring LGBT identities may be subject to severe abuse at home, depending on the attitudes of their parents. Just as importantly, many of them may ALREADY be subject to severe abuse at home, based on a perception of LGBT traits by their parents, whether accurate or not. I think most of you are old enough to have known some boy or another whose father decided he was a \"sissy\" (or even worse language) and decided to beat it out of him. \n\nUnder the draft policy, a child who was subject to abuse at home because of their perceived gender nonconformity, who went to their teacher with this issue, might have that conversation routed straight back to their parents. This would, obviously, subject them to severe abuse or other punishment. It would dissuade other children from reporting other kinds of abuse, if they saw how their fellow students were \"outed.\"\n\nWe cannot encourage children to seek safety from those adults they trust, and then betray that trust by alerting their abusers, or potential abusers. "}'>I am an attorney. I have been working in family, juvenile, and criminal law for over ten years. I am fortunate to have many LGBT friends in my life. I strongly oppose the draft policy. I urge the VDOE to reject it.

It is an unfortunate fact that much of the worst abuse suffered by minor children occurs in their own homes. Statistically, parents and other relatives are the biggest danger. It is vitally important that children have access to trusted, uninvolved adults, who are only interested in the best interests of the children. Those adults are very often the teachers and other staff members at public schools.

Many children who are exploring LGBT identities may be subject to severe abuse at home, depending on the attitudes of their parents. Just as importantly, many of them may ALREADY be subject to severe abuse at home, based on a perception of LGBT traits by their parents, whether accurate or not. I think most of you are old enough to have known some boy or another whose father decided he was a "sissy" (or even worse language) and decided to beat it out of him.

Under the draft policy, a child who was subject to abuse at home because of their perceived gender nonconformity, who went to their teacher with this issue, might have that conversation routed straight back to their parents. This would, obviously, subject them to severe abuse or other punishment. It would dissuade other children from reporting other kinds of abuse, if they saw how their fellow students were "outed."

We cannot encourage children to seek safety from those adults they trust, and then betray that trust by alerting their abusers, or potential abusers.


Vote for Sanity = Vote Republican

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thanks for a return to normalcy


Protect our kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a parent of a transgender male student. Each day I worry for his safety. As a parent and an educator, I believe it is not the responsibility of the educator to “out” a child bc of who they are. Outing a student can lead being rejected by their parent which in turn can have detrimental effects and may put these children in danger. Please reject Youngkin new policy proposal for trans students.


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the guidance


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I completely oppose this guidance. It denies the humanity of trans students. It is rooted in transphobia and hatms trans and nonbinary kids. It erased trans and nonbinary youth from the classroom and creates a hostile & potentially dangerous school environment for them.


I OPPOSE the guidance


Gov. Youngkin Transgender Policies


Children's Parents have full legal responsibility till 18 - NOT Activists NOT Counselors

<!DOCTYPE html>

A couple of points

1. Parents' legal right and obligation: This is madness that Schools' counselors or activists demand to have control over our underage age children. My children are my legal responsibility and it is I and the parents that should have legal rights in making decisions on what is right for them.

2. This is the issue of minority interests: If we are to deprive parents of parental legal rights and give the power and the decision-making to strangers over our children's lives (aka counselors and self proclaimed activists) - the minority interests will trump the majority's interests. Any transgender issue is a minority issue and it should remain as such. Transgender issue should have never been escalated to this level.

However, I ask - why with over 50% of the society being female - the resources are not used to ensure equal pay for this majority. Our daughters will continue paying for this with being underpaid.

3. Waste of society's resources: Democrats put drugs and fake tobacco in children's hands without designing any laws to protect majority's interests - and to benefit the minority in the society that wants to get stoned.  I object to my tax money now being used for sex and sexuality related decisions and debates - and especially when it comes to my children.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I'm a licensed mental health professional in Virginia and strongly condemn any action taken to victimize trans, nonbinary, and queer youth. Discrimination, harassment, and denial of gender affirming care contribute daily to the isolation, suffering, and suicide of children. It is a sin to target the most vulnerable members of our community and court ignorance and fear at their expense. All children deserve safe access to school."}">I'm a licensed mental health professional in Virginia and strongly condemn any action taken to victimize trans, nonbinary, and queer youth. Discrimination, harassment, and denial of gender affirming care contribute daily to the isolation, suffering, and suicide of children. It is a sin to target the most vulnerable members of our community and court ignorance and fear at their expense. All children deserve safe access to school.


I FULLY Support the guidelines

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents are the first teachers of their children and have an irreplaceable role in guiding them and ensuring their well-being. Teachers, counselors, and other state agents should never replace the parents and must keep the parents involved and informed. While the press has done a wonderful job of spinning this as anti trans it actually provide better protections.

I fully support these guidelines.


Parents are responsible for the well being of their children

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents are responsible for raising their children. School educators or administrators  do not have the legal or moral authority to override that responsibility. This is especially true for children who have a psychological challenge. Parents should be made aware of it.


Guidance Model policies for the treatment of transgender students in Virginia’s public schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly OPPOSE the guidance document. I am the parent of a transgender HS student, I work in a VA public middle school, and I am a Virginia voter. I worry about students who would have to attend schools where they don’t feel safe, where they can’t use bathrooms/locker rooms that match their identity, and where they might not be called by their preferred name or gender. I support trans kids!


Support for Trans Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

I stand in support of trans kids being able to make autonomous and informed choices about their bodies. I admire the courage of those who participated in the walk out today and will continue to do what I can to help as an ally. The faux concern of the Youngkin administration for these kids and their families is a hypocritical load of BS.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose the guidance. Anyone who has had any contact with trans people will be able to tell that this guidance is based in cruelty and fear of people its supporters only know as a sinister other. This guidance will only serve to harm children, and it is very likely that some will die as a result.


Oppose


I oppose the proposed VDOE policy on trans/LGBTQ youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I do not know what the future holds for my daughter, who is nine.  She is what one might call a tomboy.  She might stay a tomboy. She might turn into a princess-obsessed typical “girl” (whatever that means). Or she might be trans.  And if that last option turns out to be the case, I vehemently hope that she will be able to continue to attend school in a public school system that supports her (or him) just as they are.  The statistics on suicide rates among trans youth are terrifying. The studies on ways to reduce those risks (supportive adults, respect for chosen pronouns, etc.) are convincing.  Why would the VDOE wish to place children at risk by making school a place where they feel unsafe and unwelcome, or just not able to be their authentic selves?  It hurts no one to be supportive of kids as they go through their lives’ journeys, wherever they lead them—but forcing kids to squelch their identities or live in fear does demonstrable harm. Please do not adopt this proposed policy."}'>I do not know what the future holds for my daughter, who is nine. She is what one might call a tomboy. She might stay a tomboy. She might turn into a princess-obsessed typical “girl” (whatever that means). Or she might be trans. And if that last option turns out to be the case, I vehemently hope that she will be able to continue to attend school in a public school system that supports her (or him) just as they are. The statistics on suicide rates among trans youth are terrifying. The studies on ways to reduce those risks (supportive adults, respect for chosen pronouns, etc.) are convincing. Why would the VDOE wish to place children at risk by making school a place where they feel unsafe and unwelcome, or just not able to be their authentic selves? It hurts no one to be supportive of kids as they go through their lives’ journeys, wherever they lead them—but forcing kids to squelch their identities or live in fear does demonstrable harm. Please do not adopt this proposed policy.


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this policy! Transgender kids need a safe place for when their small-minded parents can't accept who their children are - teachers, counselors, administrators can provide them a safe outlet.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


DONT ALLOW TRANS HATE!

<!DOCTYPE html>

the suicide rate is already high enough because of the mistreatment of our trans youth! they are people and they are valid! don’t allow hateful bills and laws to hurt our youth!


STRONGLY SUPPORT.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Teachers - These are NOT your children or experiments

I know you like to say "my kids", but keep in mind, these are NOT your kids.  These kids have parents already and parents wishes must be respected.  Your job is to teach, not indoctrinate children with your world-view.  Thank you Gov. Younkin for making sure that parents are first in the lives of their children!  This intrusive social policies must not be permitted in our classrooms!


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"To attack children like this is below Virginia. This state should be a safe place for all people regardless of sexual identity. To put children in a position like the one proposed is sickening, adolescence is hard enough without dragging children and teens through another layer of hell. Regardless of political affiliations, to support this would be an outright attack on human rights. Children are the next generation of leaders, we can’t change that and to remember that would be wise. You don’t have to understand or like how someone lives their life but you have to respect it and this isn’t respect for these kids."}'>To attack children like this is below Virginia. This state should be a safe place for all people regardless of sexual identity. To put children in a position like the one proposed is sickening, adolescence is hard enough without dragging children and teens through another layer of hell. Regardless of political affiliations, to support this would be an outright attack on human rights. Children are the next generation of leaders, we can’t change that and to remember that would be wise. You don’t have to understand or like how someone lives their life but you have to respect it and this isn’t respect for these kids.


Trust your citizens who elected you.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The only reason for the government to step into a child's life and make decisions contrary to the decisions of the parents is if there is abuse going on. There are some people who are criminally negligent or malicious, but they are few. For the government to impose any program on the children that countermands the way parents are raising their children is to determine that most parents are abusing their children. The vast majority of us would rather die than hurt our children, but if the government - through the schools - counteracts parental guidance, this shows distrust of the citizenry. Be aware that these are the citizens that elected you. </p>


I OPPOSE the guidance


Disgusting law

<!DOCTYPE html>

This law is absolutely horrendous. It just traumatizes children by forcing them to be someone they are not. This trauma is something they will have to reckon with as depressed adults - which is a drain on society! It is to the benefit of our society to have happy people that are able to express their gender identity regardless of what body parts they’re born with.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose Governor Youngkins transgender student policy and fear for the safety of children if these are implemented.


Va Guidance Document


Trans sports are just sports.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"if a cis girl is 6ft, everybody says she's born for basketball, blessed even. When a trans girl is 6ft, suddenly its an \"unfair advantage\" and a \"crime against sports.\" Its grade school sports. its not the Olympics. Cis women have testosterone as well, and if that's really the problem then you can limit it to trans people having to be on hormones/blockers before playing on preferred teams. You can even make them change in another room. Still discriminatory, but making better progress than youngkins current attempt at policy. \n\nIn regard to bathrooms, if you're worried about predators, its not going to change. Any cis man can walk into a women only bathroom and any cis girl can walk into a mans bathroom. Chances are, you already use bathrooms with trans people. Sexual assault can also happen within same sex situations. cis girls can hurt each other, cis boys can hurt each other. This policy will just result in Trans girls getting beat up and harmed in Boys Bathrooms where no teachers can see. Cis men are the bullies of trans girls. Trans girls don't hurt cis girls."}">if a cis girl is 6ft, everybody says she's born for basketball, blessed even. When a trans girl is 6ft, suddenly its an "unfair advantage" and a "crime against sports." Its grade school sports. its not the Olympics. Cis women have testosterone as well, and if that's really the problem then you can limit it to trans people having to be on hormones/blockers before playing on preferred teams. You can even make them change in another room. Still discriminatory, but making better progress than youngkins current attempt at policy.

In regard to bathrooms, if you're worried about predators, its not going to change. Any cis man can walk into a women only bathroom and any cis girl can walk into a mans bathroom. Chances are, you already use bathrooms with trans people. Sexual assault can also happen within same sex situations. cis girls can hurt each other, cis boys can hurt each other. This policy will just result in Trans girls getting beat up and harmed in Boys Bathrooms where no teachers can see. Cis men are the bullies of trans girls. Trans girls don't hurt cis girls.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose the guidance and want the VDOE to reject the draft policy. The educational experience should teach students not only about the world, but about themselves. Without trust in the educational setting and the ability to move freely as their true selves, students - whether trans or not - cannot truly learn.


as a trans female in California- I oppose.

<!DOCTYPE html>

If Virginia does this, they will lose my tourism dollars. Calling all trans- come to Californoa.


I support trans and non-binary people

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I ask VDOE NOT to adopt the 2022 Model Policy, but to retain the 2021 version which respects and supports all students. Changing policy to be discriminatory is a step backwards in civil rights, which I cannot support. All students deserve to be treated with respect, called by the names and pronouns determined by them, and to be comfortable in their environment. There is no “constitutional right” to be a bully, as Youngkin’s model is trying to allow teachers to be if they “disagree” with a student’s personal identification."}'>I ask VDOE NOT to adopt the 2022 Model Policy, but to retain the 2021 version which respects and supports all students. Changing policy to be discriminatory is a step backwards in civil rights, which I cannot support. All students deserve to be treated with respect, called by the names and pronouns determined by them, and to be comfortable in their environment. There is no “constitutional right” to be a bully, as Youngkin’s model is trying to allow teachers to be if they “disagree” with a student’s personal identification.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I oppose Youngkin's policy, it's discriminary.and dangerous. Trans and nonbinary kids are among the most at-risk, requiring schools to out them to their families could have severe, even fatal consequences. My youngest sibling is non binary, if they had had a more supportive environment in highschool they wouldn't have dropped out. We had an extremely volatile home environment, school could have been a safe space for them but it wasn't."}">I oppose Youngkin's policy, it's discriminary.and dangerous. Trans and nonbinary kids are among the most at-risk, requiring schools to out them to their families could have severe, even fatal consequences. My youngest sibling is non binary, if they had had a more supportive environment in highschool they wouldn't have dropped out. We had an extremely volatile home environment, school could have been a safe space for them but it wasn't.


parent OPPOSING proposed changes to VDOE policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a parent of three children ages 6-11 enrolled in public school in Virginia. I am also a woman of faith who is active in my church. I STRONGLY OPPOSE the proposed changes to the VDOE model policies regarding the treatment of trans children in our schools. It is CRITICAL that our children be provided a safe space to discover who they are and to live their true selves. Schools and teachers should be empowered to SUPPORT trans kids by using their requested names and pronouns, and by providing access to spaces where they can feel safe at vulnerable moments, like locker rooms and bathrooms that match their gender identity.