Oppose. Youngkin’s policy denies children their truth.

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<p>What harm are these students, these children causing anyone? By being their authentic selves and living how their mind and body tell them to live, they are living confidently and powerfully—and healthily. Suppression of their intuition and self worth will have everlasting effects on these children both physically and mentally. Harm caused to them is on wholly and completely your hands, Youngkin. Can you deny these children the simple but profound happiness of being who they are in their heart? This has no impact on anyone but them — let their lives and true selves speak. </p>


Transgender rights

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This new bill will only harm and potentially kill students. Transgender students are not danger and shouldn’t be treated as such.


I fully oppose this.


Support strongly


Strongly oppose.


Strongly oppose in every possible way

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<p>The proposed policy on treatment of transgender children is inhumane. These kids and their families are no threat whatsoever to anyone else - but the policy is a threat to their own wellbeing. Governor Youngkin’s supposed support of “parental rights” is nothing more than thinly veiled transphobia and pure, unadulterated bigotry with potentially cruel and tragic consequences. Quit pandering to right wing bigots, and actually support Virginia children and their families. Do not implement this so-called “guidance.” We will absolutely vote out anyone who supports this misguided policy. </p>


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Strongly Opposed

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The Proposed Policy model is highly reductive, regressive, and will be harmful to students. As an educator, I strongly oppose it.


Oppose


Inhumane - strongly oppose

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<p>As a Licensed Masters of Social Work in the State of Virigna, I can attest that the proposed legislation is inhumane and puts the safety and well-being of the children at risk. Therefore, I strongly oppose the proposed legislation. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Save the children


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


I am completely opposed.


I support Youngkin's new model policies which protect children

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Parents have primary responsibility for their children and can best guide them.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Abuse of power

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This regulation is harmful to the growth and development of our students. We are going backwards.


Stop the sicko leftist support this policy save our children


Do not do this.


Opposed in the Strongest Possible Manor

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<p>Trans children need our protection and respect, and do not deserve to be belittled in this way. </p>


Strongly Oppose

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This policy will quite literally lead to the deaths of dozens of students. Trans youth are among our most vulnerable to suicide, and those rates seriously increase when communities and schools implement policies like these. It also puts teachers in a horrific position and makes us responsible to out our students, which is completely unacceptable and unethical to me.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose.


Strongly oppose this cruelty

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This will do nothing but cause grave harm to children and families in our state. It’s an embarrassingly cruel position for Virginia to take.


This is the worst policy.

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This is exactly what we feared when Youngling was elected.

I stand in massive opposition.


I strongly oppose this

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<p>This is a terrible bill, everything this does makes it harder for parents, kids, and teachers. I'm gonna go into each because this bill just makes everything harder. For parents, this is just another annoyance a kid will have to go through in an already difficult time. This leads into the problem for kids, with kids wanting to use other names or even nicknames (because it is stated as "what names, nicknames, and/or pronouns, if any, shall be used for their child by teachers and school staff while their child is at school" which makes it so any other name has to be approved by a parent, and if a parent is opposed to the child using a name or pronouns it can cause mental health damage to the student, as well as get rid of the escape school can provide to them. For teachers this is just another layer of inhibition of teaching the way they see as best, it is in the best interest of the school to keep it better for all 3 parties by not moving this document any more and moving back to the 2021 model. </p>


Strongly oppose

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I strongly oppose these policies


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose!

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<p>I strongly oppose this harmful policy! </p>


I am strongly opposed.


Strongly opposed to the new proposal

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<p>Kids should have the right to choose how they want to be identified, not the parents or school.  </p>


Strongest possible opposition

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The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents seems to be a how-to manual for violating the privacy and dignity of Virginia's students. These policies are abhorrent.

First- schools exist to serve STUDENTS, not parents. Any parents taking issue with inclusive and supportive policies are free to find a private school or to begin homeschooling. Public schools do not exist to cater to the religious or personal beliefs of parents. If a parent believed the Earth is flat, we wouldn't teach that belief. If a parent believes that the Tooth Fairy is real, we wouldn't teach that belief. Because parental belief is not the way we determine educational practice.

Second - the idea that educated, fully competent ADULTS would aim this level of undisguised hatred and disgust at CHILDREN is beyond shameful. Whether an adult understands transgender identities or not is not important. What IS important is what we know about the well-being and survival of transgender students. We know that these children are at exponentially higher risk of physical violence both from their peers and from the public at large. We know that they suffer aggressive bullying at higher, and often more physical rates than their peers. Most importantly, we know that they attempt and commit suicide at rates exponentially higher than their peers. But we also know that being supported and accepted in their stated gender identity, in an environment that is open and welcoming and which actively seeks to reduce stigma DRASTICALLY reduces all of those numbers.

Whether a lawmaker, an educator or a parent acknowledges the validity of the transgender identity or not should never, ever take priority over our concern for that child's mental health and physical well-being. We are talking about CHILDREN. Babies, really. Why, WHY would we ever seek to create or enforce ANY policies that seek to harm them? No child deserves this, and it sickens me that there are adults in our state who would not only inflict this on our children, but do so proudly. The glee that they seem to take in hating these children is beyond shameful. There are no words.


Support Our Governor


Support this policy support childrens


Thank you!!

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So thankful for this!! Last year's policy was outrageous and harmful to children, parental rights and teacher/administrators first amendment rights. I can say that as a parent of public school students and wife to a teacher in the system! We really hope every last but of the terrible policies from last year will be removed by the new policies! Thank you, Governor Youngkin for taking this on!!


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Do not do this.


#parentalrights #govenoryoungkin

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<p>#parentalrights </p>


Oppose!!!!!!!!!


Strongly oppose.


I strongly oppose this.

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<p>I oppose this for the safety of our students. </p>


I am completely opposed.


Trans kids deserve affirmation and protection!

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As a teacher, it is important that ALL students are accepted and respected. By erasing the existing trans-affirming policies, you are thus erasing the existence of those students, opening doors for bullying and emotional harm. We can, and should, do better than this! ALL students, including trans students, deserve affirmation and protection!


I support this policy I support children


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Strongly OPPOSE

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<p>I stand with Trans kids and strongly oppose this policy change. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Oppose these changes

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Adults are supposed to be looking out for children, not bullying or hurting them. This is what these new regulations (some say illegal) do. They marginalize children who are already trying to work through their own identity. It also hurts teachers because it mandates that they violate the trust of children and "out" them to their parents. In many cases, this has already resulted in children being abused, disowned and thrown out of their houses. There was absolutely no need to make this change except that our Governor is running for President and courting the extremist vote. I say protect the children and teachers from an overreaching government.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Stop the abuse of children support this policy


Strongly Support

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I strongly support this


Trans Policy

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I STRONGLY OPPOSE Governor Youngkin’s harmful policy.


I oppose this fully.


Strongly Oppose

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This policy will harm children. It will undoubtedly exacerbate the already significant risk of suicide amongst trans kids.


Thank U for protecting granddaughters in athletics and bathrooms & including parents

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

To improve the quality of education parents need to be involved in a reasonable fashion!

Our female students need to be safe and protected when they go to the bathroom.

Jr. high and high school aged males should not be allowed to choose to play on a female team.

All students should be treated with respect., especially those who are struggling with their own identity.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


In support


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


Absolutely ridiculous

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We can’t let this happen. This should not be a decision for other people to make. Please help keep trans kids safe.

how about focus on getting teachers in schools again. No one wants to teach anymore.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Trans kids are abused support this policy


More work for teachers and a license to discriminate and bully

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Kids don't choose to be transgender; they simply come to the realization that something inside them is different than many of their peers. This experience is frequently a source of shame, of fear, of confusion, and one that nobody would ever sign up for - it just is. And others who don't understand what is happening, it's an easy opportunity to tease, bully, or inflict physical harm on them. Just as folks don't decide to be heterosexual, transgender folks didn't decide to be trans - they simply accept that it's who they are.

None of this should be any concern to teachers. Teachers should not have to put themselves between a child and their parents to play a role in any of this. Teachers teach, and if their religion or personal beliefs don't allow them to teach without treating everyone with the respect they deserve, they shouldn't be teachers.

Finally, parents are blissfully unaware of what their child may be going through, that's not something they should expect teachers or administrators to try to help them with.

I vehemently object to this proposed set of rules.


Strongly oppose


This is awful

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<p>School is supposed to be a safe place for children. We need to support them. This new policy will not help students and may cause more harm. </p>


I oppose this.

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<p>This would add to the list of things we are failing on if we over turn this. </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.


Protect our children support this policy

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<p>Stop the abuse by sickos </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly Support Governor Youngkin’s Transgender School Policy

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I strongly support this policy as it protects parental rights and protects sports programs for girls.  Thank you, Governor Youngkin!  I am glad you will be governor for the remainder of my children’s K-12 education.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Strongly SUPPORT Youngkin’s policy!

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<p>Fully support Youngkin’s policy! </p>


I fully oppose this.


Strongly Oppose

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The Code of Virginia prohibits "unlawful discrimination in educational institutions" on the basis of... sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. These policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to trans and nonbinary kids.


I adamantly OPPOSE this measure

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As an educator who has spent their life providing a safe place for my students to be themselves, I oppose any measures that seek to exclude, isolate, demean, or put anyone in a situation where they are made to feel “less than” another human being.


Strongly oppose this policy motivated by hatred

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This is no reason for this policy other than hatred and intolerance. We should support children and not try to make their lives harder. There is no possible defense for the policy. Children should not be used as political pawns in adults’ culture wars.


Terrible, biased, hurtful ‘legislation”

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This is disgusting. The 2021 version is fine, and you are manufacturing problems for political gain, at the harm and expense of American citizens whom you are supposed to represent. Classrooms have always been open for those parents who wish to be involved. This is fear-mongering legislating that is just wrong.


Strongly Support

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STRONGLY in support of Gov Youngkin’s Policy change.


Do not do this.


I strongly oppose these policies

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I oppose these policies because they create an unsafe learning environment for queer students


Strongly Support. Stop the genital mutilation of children.

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Strongly support. Stop the genital mutilation of children.


Strongly OPPOSE!

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<p>Children, no matter how they identify with gender, should feel safe in our schools. This policy will cause real harm, forcing kids that aren’t ready and putting teachers in a terrible position. Please allow teachers to support their students! And think about the parents of non-binary children. </p>


Vehemently Opposed

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<p>This policy would damage, burden, and traumatize our youth. These children are doing no harm, so why are the adults trying to bully them into submission. DO NOT pass this policy. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


Let children be children


Strongly oppose


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


OPPOSE discrimination

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<p>This discriminatory legislation is hurtful and wrong. PROTECT ALL KIDS. Reject discrimination in ALL FORMS. </p>


I fully oppose this.


Strongly oppose

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This policy will harm children who are already vulnerable in a culture that insists on conformity. Schools should be a safe place for all children to celebrate their individuality and learn from one another's differences as well as from their similarities. The trans and nonbinary people in my life should not have to live in a society that is trying to erase them. No child should have to choose between living a life of repression and not living at all. But this policy is explicitly aimed at endangering them. I have lost someone to suicide, and I have witnessed parents grieving for a child. I would not wish these experiences on anyone. This policy should be unconscionable in a free society that values children.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


These policies are wrong.

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As a parent I find these proposed policy changes to be abhorrent. We should be affirming students and making schools safe spaces. I understand that some parents do not feel comfortable discussing these sorts of topics with their children for a variety of reasons. However, erasing trans youth under the guise of “parent choice” is harmful to all. We should be teaching our students to be respectful of others and show them that supporting diversity, in all its possible forms, is important in society.

My own children happen to be cisgender. Our family identifies as Christian. We are also strong allies who firmly believe in uplifting those individuals from historically marginalized communities. I urge you to stop these policy changes now before real harm comes to trans youth in our communities.

Thank you.


Strongly oppose.


Leave the teaching to the teachers

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<p>It’s obvious that this change is specifically meant to combat transgender activism in schools. The most damning part about all of this, without even getting into the danger you’re potentially putting CHILDREN into, is that parents could decide that teaching about sex and gender is fundamental for children’s response to combating gender roles in society. However, it’s obvious that this “hot take” wouldn’t be as important to this administration, or it would simply be ignored. Leave teaching to professionals, and leave children alone. </p>


Support this Proposal to Restore Sanity to Virginia and Protect All Students

Mother of daughter harmed by transgender policies

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My 13 year old daughter became convinced she was transgender after attending a school presentation. Then the school changed her name and pronouns without our knowledge or permission and treated her like she was actually a boy. Several others in her class believed the same thing, including one teen girl who was on testosterone and actually got a mastectomy.  The school would not abide by our wishes to treat our daughter like the girl she is and we had no choice but to withdraw her to save her from this madness. Thank God we did. But I will never forgive the school for her indoctrinating her and changing her name behind our backs. These confused kids don't need adults lying to them, pretending they are the opposite sex. They need help and they need their parents to be involved, not kept in the dark. These ideas are spreading among confused young people, and are being actively encouraged online and in the classroom. Schools should be for educating, not indoctrinating with sexual and gender identity BS. Thank you Gov. Youngkin for bringing sanity back to our schools. I 100% support this proposal.


Oppose! Does not support mental health.

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This legislation sickens me. All children do not have equal emotional support at home. This puts youth without support in a horrible position. I will never politically support any candidate who intentionally disregards a human being’s right to pursue happiness, especially when it doesn’t cause harm to anyone else. Shame on anyone who supported this trash.


Do not do this.


Impact of new policy

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<p>Please know that this policy could lead to more mental health issues in our trans youth . Is the state going to provide public schools with more resources and funding to help our trans youth who may suffer from this . </p>


Oppose


Support this policy to stop hurting children


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Strongly oppose

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This proposal is insulting to thinking people everywhere. Shame on you Mr. Youngkin you are a sham.


This is a terrible policy decision.


This is harmful. Strongly oppose

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<p>This is harmful. Strongly oppose. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose.

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This bill will alienate and harm so many people. Do not pass this bill.


I fully oppose this.


I am strongly opposed.


I strongly oppose your efforts.

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Dear Governor Youngkin,
  You made a point about schools vs parents to the detriment of education, and got yourself elected on a false premise.  Now you want to attack a small minority for political play to a base you think will get you a national platform.  It will fail, as you can see the vast majority of the comments are opposed to your policy.  So are you so undemocratic that when the majority of voters are not listened to? That would be undemocratic. Just a thought.


I oppose this fully.


This does nothing but harm children.

Governor Youngkin,
You probably do not actually care about these public comments.  I'm sure that this is all a sham and a farce to make it appear as if you actually care what the public thinks.  Nevertheless, I feel compelled to add my voice to the cacophony rising up to oppose harmful policy like the standards you are proposing.This move is unnecessary.  It does not protect anyone other than  parents who don't need protecting.  It puts trans and non-binary youth at risk if they may fear their parents' response to coming out.  No one should be outed before they are ready, and parents do not own their children.  They are not owed anything by their children simply for birthing them.Not affirming trans and non-binary youth with acceptance of their pronouns puts them at an increased risk of suicide.  Using correct pronouns harms no one.  If teachers cannot show respect to their students, how can students be expected to respect them back.I am the proud parent of an exceptional non-binary kid.  The school and their friends knew that they were non-binary before I did and I am ok with that.  They were able to come out in the way that THEY wanted, when they were ready to do so.  I'm proud of them for having that emotional maturity, and I am glad that they were able to take their time and process things.  I will be the first to fight any teacher who refuses to affirm them and I will be their biggest champion.  Not every kid has that opportunity, that support, or that love.  Some will be abused and emotionally harmed if and when they are forced to come out before they are ready because your administration believes that parents have more rights than children.  Please do not implement this policy.  Or do.  Whatever.  But know that you'll have consequences at the ballot.  This is not the fight your party wants to bring right now in a time when you are greatly unfavored by more than half the country.

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Governor Youngkin,

You probably do not actually care about these public comments.  I'm sure that this is all a sham and a farce to make it appear as if you actually care what the public thinks.  Nevertheless, I feel compelled to add my voice to the cacophony rising up to oppose harmful policy like the standards you are proposing.

This move is unnecessary.  It does not protect anyone other than  parents who don't need protecting.  It puts trans and non-binary youth at risk if they may fear their parents' response to coming out.  No one should be outed before they are ready, and parents do not own their children.  They are not owed anything by their children simply for birthing them.

Not affirming trans and non-binary youth with acceptance of their pronouns puts them at an increased risk of suicide.  Using correct pronouns harms no one.  If teachers cannot show respect to their students, how can students be expected to respect them back.

I am the proud parent of an exceptional non-binary kid.  The school and their friends knew that they were non-binary before I did and I am ok with that.  They were able to come out in the way that THEY wanted, when they were ready to do so.  I'm proud of them for having that emotional maturity, and I am glad that they were able to take their time and process things.  I will be the first to fight any teacher who refuses to affirm them and I will be their biggest champion.  Not every kid has that opportunity, that support, or that love.  Some will be abused and emotionally harmed if and when they are forced to come out before they are ready because your administration believes that parents have more rights than children.

Please do not implement this policy.  Or do.  Whatever.  But know that you'll have consequences at the ballot.  This is not the fight your party wants to bring right now in a time when you are greatly unfavored by more than half the country.


Please change the school policy

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Parents rights are being eroded with the existing policy.  This needs to be corrected.  Schools should never keep se reps or not tell parents about their children.  If a child is suicidal, anorexic or have some mental health issues and the svhool knows, should the parents  be kept in the dark?  Notifying parents should happen with every issue the child faces.  We should not disregard parents just because the child tells the school they aren't "supported".  They are kids, many of them do not understand the enormity of their decision and it should not fall to the burocracy of a school system to guide them.  Schools need to focus on education since the kids are already falling behind other nations, not get mired down in the liberal talking points of the moment.  Let the parents parent as they know their kids best..


This will bring harm to trans kids.


This is not right. Strongly oppose.

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Please do not enact this policy. Studies show that when LGBTQ kids are stigmatized their rates of suicide increase. This policy does not protect kids!


I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Absolutely opposed

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These policy changes directly threaten the well being of our trans and queer youth, a population already severely at risk. Absolutely disgusting.


Very Strongly Support!!

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Stop the grooming and brainwashing of our children!


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


As a transgender person, I know firsthand the harm this policy will cause

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I wasn't able to come out to my family until I graduated college because it wasn't safe for me to be myself at home. The only safe space I had was at school with my friends and teachers who supported me. Taking that away from students will cause irreparable damage to their mental and physical health. Students are at a time in their life when they should be exploring every facet of their identities; from fashion choices to gender expression, from nicknames to chosen names. If they are not safe to be themselves at home, why would you take away their safe space to explore who they are?

I've seen what happens to trans kids who are outed to parents. I've had friends who were homeless before the age of 18. I've known kids who were beaten by parents who claim unconditional love, until the condition is being trans. I've watched friends have to choose between being open about who they are or keeping family members in their life. DO NOT FORCE ANYONE TO COME OUT UNTIL THEY ARE READY. It is entirely their decision on when and how to come out to family, if they ever do. To force someone to do so before they are SAFE AND READY is inhumane. You do not know what these kids have going on at home. Being trans is not a choice, do not take away their right to safety.


This is horrid

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Schools should be safe spaces, and all children should feel safe there. Period.


This is a terrible policy decision.


strongly oppose the abusive decisions of our governor.

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Our governor needs to realize just how invasive, and horrific these policies are for our trans youths in the area. To leave an abusive and close-minded home and seek acceptance and guidance in a school/public setting only to be denied it and be met with the same denial is appalling. Think of them and how this affects the mental and physical well-beings of those genderqueer individuals in our community, as well as how it affects the suicide rate among trans people. Sick. I am beyond in opposition to these recent decisions. The government must separate itself from personal affairs such as these.


100% SUPPORT / DEMOCRACY SPEAKS

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Former public school employee who has witnessed this nonsense in our schools & felt intimidated to remain silent. This is one of many reasons why Virginians voted for change. The parents have rights!


Why are you trying to make kids lives harder?

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It appears as if the only way the governor can get a "win" is by picking on children. SAD! This will only harm children. Can't we focus on actual issues affecting Virginia residents? We would be MUCH better served by providing support and funding for what communities need to ensure safe and welcoming school environments. I would only encourage my fellow residents to fight this idiotic proposal!


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose.


Oversimplification of a complex, multi-faceted issue

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I oppose any gender, race, or ability- based phobia.

I support the intended principles of Title IX and the attempt to level the playing field—to the extent possible—for women and girls. Participation in sports is a huge boost for physical and mental health, confidence, and teamwork for females and should be protected. Athletic capability is not equal between girls and transgender girls. I’m sorry—this is fact.

I oppose using “religious beliefs” as justification for small minded behavior or masking attempts to impose conservative values on a community, I.e. book banning. If choice is falling to the parents, another parent shouldn’t control what my child can or cannot read/have access to in school. Ban books in your home, not in public schools.

Strike any reference to religion from the model. Religion has zero place in a public school system.


STRONGLY oppose

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<p>Strongly oppose. Do not do this to our children. </p>


I oppose this fully.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Fix terrible rest stop bathrooms instead of discriminating against kids

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Why don’t you fix the deplorable bathrooms in our rest areas that are the laughing stock of the Mid-Atlantic instead of focusing on discriminating against kids using a stall at school!


Strongly Oppose.

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Strongly Oppose this legislation. Why do people care so much about what a kid wants to identify as or be called. Does it personally threaten you or any member of your family? The answer to that question is no. So who gives a  at the end of the day? If it really bothers you that much and "your parental rights need safeguarding" take your happy ass to Private School.


Strongly Oppose

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“I strongly oppose this proposed policy.  This proposal would create a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment for our VA transgender and nonbinary youth, requiring teachers and staff to forcibly “out” students, prohibit staff from supporting trans and nonbinary students such as using a students affirming name and pronouns, and prohibit access or participation in activities consistent with their gender identity.  All our students deserve a supportive and affirming school environment, especially our vulnerable and marginalized populations like our transgender and nonbinary youth.”


Fully oppose

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<p>I vehemently oppose this proposal. The damage it would cause innocent kids is incomprehensible. </p>


Strongly agree with or Governor !

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<p>Agree with our governor. </p>


Completely disagree and oppose the Governor’s new transgender policy

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Restricting the rights of transgender students is completely wrong. Governor Youngkin is making a backward decision that harms students and puts them in a vulnerable and frightening situation. If these students are required to get parent approval first, then they may be totally abused by unsupported families. Transgender students without a supportive family will be shamed. This can result in significant increases in suicide rates and depression levels in our LGBTQIA+ students.

In addition, it would take a significant amount of time to get names and pronouns changed legally and would require parent or guardian approval by unsupported families.


I am strongly opposed.


This is a terrible policy decision.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Trans kids need support, not hurdles

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Trans students need to be treated with respect and dignity. Any policy that discourages teachers from using a student's preferred name and pronouns should be rejected. Any policy that requires kids to use the bathroom of their sex recorded at birth, rather than that of the gender with which they identify, is needlessly cruel and serves no benefit. I oppose the Governor's proposed Model Policies.


Strongly Oppose, protect Trans Lives

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<p>I’m strongly opposed to any policy that is going to lead to harm and death for our most vulnerable children, all in the name of appeasement towards the most evil, ghoulish people to have ever existed. </p>


Strongly oppose. This is not up to others what people decide to do with their life.

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Strongly oppose. School should be a place people can be who they want. Anyone who sees other wise, should not be making our laws.  Keep trans kids safe .


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Thank you

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<p>Thank you for hashing out a policy that protects the rights of parents and protects children that choose to transition.  This is a decision that parents and the family doctor should be included on.  </p>


Transgender school policy

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<p>This policy will be a terrible set back for transgender students. Not all students have a loving, caring, and trusting relationship with their parents or guardians. Allowing these children to be addressed as the gender they identify with matters. You are worried about parental rights, what about the rights of the children, what about their human rights. </p>


Discrimination has no place in the Commonwealth of Virginia

Brandon Hatcher-Fagan, Richmond City Public Schools

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<p>This bill will do nothing but being harm to students who are transgender and/or non-binary. As an education professional, I urge you NOT to pass this discriminatory legislation to protect our students who are members of vulnerable and marginalized communities. </p>


Strongly oppose.


Opposed.

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<p>Trans rights are human rights.  Protect transgender children. </p>


Strongly oppose

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This creates more hate and harm to students.  We need to protect and support our kids.


Do not do this.


Strongly oppose

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<p>This measure is a great government overreach and a waste of tax money </p>


I support this very strongly!!!I

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I believe this is what we need. Makes good common sense. Parents need to be aware of what is being taught to our children.


I fully oppose this.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose

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<p>This proposed policy is horrible for all. </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


This legislation will cost lives. Strongly oppose.

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Please do not do this. This legislation will cause needless suffering and increase the already sky-high suicide rate among transgender youth. According to the Trevor Project, 52% of all transgender and nonbinary young people in the U.S. seriously contemplated killing themselves in 2020. More than half thought it would be better to be dead, rather than trying to live with rejection, isolation, loneliness, bullying and being targeted by politicians and activists pushing anti-trans legislation.

LGBTQ youth who had access to spaces that affirmed their sexual orientation and gender identity reported lower rates of attempting suicide. For many youth, school is that affirming space. Taking that away will have devastating consequences. Please do the right thing. Trans youth are not a threat and they are not too young to know who they are. Even if you do not understand them, you should at least agree that they deserve to live.


I oppose this fully.


THIS IS ABSOLUTELY INCORRECT!

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Growing up as a teenager is hard enough constantly hearing 'be your self' 'only you can be you' 'don't let others dull your flame' when the only thing peer pressure tells them is 'fit in' 'don't stick out too much' 'don't tell them, they might think its dorky'. Why should we allow people who are old enough to be our grandparents or great-grandparents decide they can have any involvement in our adolescents' lives? With all due respect to President Biden, the childhood he grew up in is NOTHING like the reality of how things are today. The only possible outcomes of putting someone else in charge of such a vulnerable anxious adolescent person are negative and potentially traumatic!


Stop making life harder for trans kids!!

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<p>Instead of spending energy to take down an already marginalized community further, focus on ways to improve the lives of Virginians.  I strongly oppose this. You are creating a school environment that is toxic and potentially deadly to these children.  Transgender people already have a suicide rate higher than the general population because they do not feel welcome in this world. Your plan contributes to this pain.  </p>


Support

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Thank you governor younkin for protecting my child and our family.


Strongly Oppose

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These new model policies are taking us away from the respecting the dignity of trans students, and are thus an embarrassment to our whole state.  They should never be allowed to take effect.  The sad truth is that sometimes kids need protection from their own parents, and especially this group which is already so marginalized.  It will be a tragic day if these policies are allowed to go forward.


Fully support

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<p>I fully support parents' rights to know everything going on with their child/children and for the parents to be the sole parties that choose how their children are raised. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


STRONGLY AGREE!!

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STRONGLY AGREE!!! Children need to be protected by their parents!


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


This is a terrible policy decision.


My comment on VDOE new transgender policy

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My statement on this new transgender policy is that I think that "A parent has a fundamental right to make decisions concerning the upbringing, education, and care of the parent's child

(1-240.1). This policy I think is important because I think that if this policy did not exist, then I think that counselors would be advising students for surgeries. Therefore, parents should be involved with their own child and make decisions.


2022 New Model Policies

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Supporting parental rights protects children. I support Gov. Youngkin's policy.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Please support trans youth

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Today’s youth and all citizens deserve compassion, support, and understanding.  They have enough stress already; we adults should be helping find systems to limit anxiety and depression, not add to it.  Thank you.


Absolutely agree!

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<p>Thank you for this bill that is reasonable and gives rights back to parents of minors. </p>


I strongly oppose this.

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<p>I strongly oppose this. All children have the right to be respected and feel safe in the classroom. This proposal would create a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment for all. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


There was nothing wrong with the 2021 policies, these new guidelines will result in direct harm

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<p>I oppose the new guidelines and will be choosing to teach my children the value of kindness and acceptance </p>


Strongly oppose.


I support Youngkin and our children

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I support Youngkin and our children.  Parent's have rights over what there children are exposed to.  Plain and simple.  Transgenderism is a mental disorder.


This will harm kids, just like you intended

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I'm not sure why I'm even bothering to reply here. The Republican party stance has calcified around one of hate and intolerance so I guess kudos for adhering to your bigoted marching orders? When the SCOTUS undoes Brown v. Board of Education I assume we can expect something similarly hateful for nonwhite students too.

"The 2021 Model Policies also disregarded the rights of parents and ignored other legal and constitutional principles that significantly impact how schools educate students." Oh come on, don't be a coward here Glenn, have the courage to at least say what you mean. The 2021 Model Policies disregarded the rights of parents to teach their kids that they should bully Transgender students. You're not pro-parent, you're just pro-bully. At least have the courage to own it.

The data right now indicates that 82% of Transgender people have contemplated killing themselves and transgender adolescents face a 7.6 times higher risk of suicide than their cisgender peers. That's fueled by fear, by bullying, and by a lack of acceptance by peers. All of which you are fostering and encouraging with these new rules. You'll have the blood of kids on your hands but not on your conscience because you clearly lack one. I doubt you experience shame anymore but if you do, I wonder how many kids will die before you start to feel ashamed.


This is disgusting

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This new law is anti-freedom and anti-rights. It spreads hatred that trans and non-binary students already experience at a higher rate, and makes their existence an endangerment to themselves. Please allow trans student to exist in their own schools. They deserve freedom just as much as the hateful people who are putting this into place.


Protect trans kids


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly Oppose.

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<p>This will harm students and staff. Students deserve to feel safe, accepted, and trusted at school. This does not allow this at all. </p>


Do not do this.


I oppose this fully.


Horrible Idea, Strongly Opposed

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This is a horrible idea, children need to be treated with respect, not harmed by horrible policies. This would lead to the needless suffering of thousands by this moral panic. Please reconsider this policy and talk to transgender people before writing another one.


I fully oppose this.


I am strongly opposed.


Strongly oppose

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<p>I STRONGLY oppose this. </p>


Strongly oppose

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This proposed policy is dangerous for children.  A 2018 study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that more than half of transgender male teens who participated in the survey reported attempting suicide in their lifetime, while 29.9 percent of transgender female teens said they attempted suicide. Among non-binary youth, 41.8 percent of respondents stated that they had attempted suicide at some point in their lives.  We need to make these children feel comfortable with themselves while they are still growing and learning to be themselves.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Opposed - RPS Substitute Teacher

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<p>As a transgender substitute teacher in Richmond City, I strongly oppose this policy. </p>


Model Policy D(7) Contravenes State and Federal Law

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To: Daniel A. Gecker, President

Dear Mr. Gecker:

I respectfully submit these comments relating to the VDOE’s Proposed “2022 Model Policies On The Privacy, Dignity, And Respect For All Students And Parents In Virginia’s Public Schools.”

Your new Model Policy D(7) (“Model Policy”) provides:

“No policy, guidance, training, or other written material issued by the [School Division] may encourage or instruct teachers to conceal material information about a student from the student’s parent, including information related to gender.”

This Model Policy is vague and overbroad as to the terminology “conceal material information”.   The terminology used in the Model Policy appears to have been adapted from some other legal context – perhaps the Virginia Viatical Settlements Act, Section 38.2-6000, Code of Virginia, 1950 as amended, which regulates the sale of life insurance policies by terminally-ill persons.   But that statute provides specific guidance as to what constitutes “material information” whereas your Model Policy does not. Teachers are not trained as lawyers, and cannot be expected to make legal judgments as to what “information about a student” might constitute “material information.” Yet, you seem to be laying the foundation for parents bringing legal claims against teachers for failing to disclose “material information” about their child.  The result of this poorly worded policy will be confusion on the part of both teachers and parents and a chilling effect on students confiding in teachers on a whole range of issues that will likely endanger the health and safety of children throughout the Commonwealth.

In particular, your Model Policy on its face is not limited to “information related to gender”, but rather covers “information” of any sort. As you know, teachers are mandatory reporters under e.g., Section 63.2-105 of the Code of Virginia. Federal regulations, the Code of Virginia, and Child Protective Services policy specify that the identity of the reporter be protected and not released unless by court order where the information provided by the reporter is necessary for a full disclosure of the child’s situation.  This new policy in its zealousness to require teachers to report “material” gender information to parents appears to contravene such protections of reporters.  This is therefore a dangerous policy that will inevitably discourage teachers in the Commonwealth from complying with their reporting obligations to protect the life and safety of children in their care.

Who or what would authorize teachers to “conceal material information about a student from the student’s parent” as your Model Policy states?  State and Federal law, the courts of the Commonwealth, any rational local Board of Education, local Child Protective Services and law enforcement. For at least these reasons, in my opinion, the Model Policy as written should not be imposed on local Boards of Education throughout the Commonwealth.

Respectfully,

Rob Faris

Arlington


I strongly oppose.

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The statistics show that LGBTQ students are four times more likely to commit suicide than their heterosexual peers. It also shows that it is estimated that approximately every 45 seconds at least 1 LQBTQ youth attempts suicide. The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth. A 2020 peer-reviewed studyby The Trevor Project’s researchers, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, found that transgender and nonbinary youth were 2 to 2.5 times as likely to experience depressive symptoms, seriously consider suicide, and attempt suicide compared to their cisgender LGBQ peers. We don’t live in a world where more students know someone who has died by suicide than the students who don’t know anyone who has died by suicide.

This data is relevant because this group of students already feels left out and unimportant. Almost half already feel like their life isn’t worth living. If you pass this legislature you will be making these statistics grow. You will have the weight of countless students deaths on your shoulders.

A person has feelings, emotions, opinions. If you restrict that to only what the parents want, then you are taking away autonomy. I urge you please do not approve of the 2022 Model Policies On The Privacy, Dignity, and Respect For All Students and Parents In Virginia’s Public Schools, because more students will die by suicide if they are stamped out and made to feel inferior and unimportant. Thank you.

Statistics were gathered from The Trevor Project’s article titled “Facts About LGBTQ Youth Suicide” written on December 15,2021.
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/facts-about-lgbtq-youth-suicide/


Do not support this policy

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<p>This policy is harmful to transgender children.  It is ridiculously cruel and poorly considered.  </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


Fully support

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Fully support Gov. Youngkin!

Fully support!


Strongly oppose

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I completely oppose of this policy! It is harmful to students.


Absolutely oppose

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<p>This is cleverly disguised discrimination. I had hoped Virginia had left the legacy of discrimination wrapped in moderate language behind. Clearly it hasn't. This is harmful to students and goes against all legitimate recommendations by medical professionals. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly opposed

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I am strongly opposed to this policy, which will only fuel hate and discrimination against an already marginalized group. This policy is seeking to "solve"a problem that does not exist.


Strongly agree


Governor and all his children who attended only private schools doesn’t know best

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I strongly oppose these discriminatory policies!


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Protect Trans Kids

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<p>Gender affirming support is backed by the American Academy of Pediatricians, the Endocrine Society, the Pediatric Endocrine Society, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, the American School Counselor Association, the American Public Health Association, the American School Health Association, major nursing associations, major social work associations, and leading child welfare groups representing over 7 million youth-serving professionals and more than 1000 child welfare organizations. The proposed changes you are suggesting are in conflict with all of them. Please protect transgender and non-binary students. </p>


Hurting trans kids

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Your new policy will negatively effect transgender youth, who already attempt suicide at a disproportionately higher rate than other teenagers


I support our Governor.

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I fully support Governor Youngkin.


Strongly oppose.


I am strongly opposed.


Governor is out of touch with the needs of students, fully oppose these policies

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Limiting the ability for students of all identities to feel safe is in no way a “model policy”. Using schools and students as a way to swing political agendas is a sign of weakness and failure in governance.


STRONGLY OPPOSED

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<p>I am strongly opposed to this policy. It infringes on the civil rights of transgender students in the state of Virginia. It is HARMFUL to students and hurts those who have the courage to truly be themselves.  </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I agree with this change.  Parents have the right and responsibility to raise their children.

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Parents have the right to raise their own children.  Public schools do not get to supersede that right.  Parents have the right to know what is going on with their children.  Public schools do not have the right to hide information from parents that is vital to a child’s mental and physical health.


This would harm transgender students.

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<p>I oppose any legislation that will harm trans kids.  There is tremendous support for trans people amongst their peers and these kids will be able to vote soon.  Thank God.  Virginia will not go backwards.  </p>


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


This is a grave setback

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<p>I strongly oppose this. Allow students to be free to be themselves. </p>


Strongly oppose


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Almost all comments opposing are anonymous and likely written by the same person


Do not do this.


FULLY SUPPORT!!!


I strongly oppose

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These policies will put our transgender students at risk. This is a population that needs support, not to have their rights and protections stripped away.


I fully oppose this.


I strongly oppose this draft policy

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<p>As a parent and a concerned citizen I strongly oppose this draft policy. I encourage and expect the VDOE to reflect it in full. Any policy that in effect further harms and marginalizes already vulnerable children should be vehemently fought against. I am disappointed this is even a discussion we need to be having. Trans rights are human rights. Thank you for reading my comments. </p>


Agree to pass

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Agree to pass bill, concerned parent


I oppose this fully.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


I oppose this policy

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<p>This will negatively affect many students mental health. Studies have shown that polices such as this will increase suicide rates amongst teens. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


Oppose discriminatory ruling

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<p>Trans rights are no different than any other human rights. No one should be picked on or singled out because they are different. Anything that has to do with gender and sexuality is a private matter. Stay out of people’s private lives. This is not the roll of government. This is over reach to the highest degree. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


No. Just no.

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These policies will harm students. Period. As a mom, I'm so tired of seeing "Empowering parents!" used as an excuse for enacting hateful policies. I trust transgender and non-binary kids to know who they are - please stop putting them in danger in order to score political points. Public schools should be safe places for EVERYONE.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose.


Agree

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<p>I agree with the changes to the transgender policies </p>


This is wrong and you KNOW it's wrong

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<p>You know this is wrong. You don't care. Children deserve protection, ALL CHILDREN. Just because a child doesn't fall in line with how you believe doesn't mean they should suffer for it. You are purposefully ignoring science to further your agenda. Let trans children be who they are, not who YOU WISH them to be. </p>


Transgender policy

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<p>I am completely against this policy. Transgender kids belong. Do not make life harder for them. You are doing a severe disservice to this already disadvantaged group. </p>


Strongly oppose!!

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<p>This policy will only harm children who find school to be their age place.  </p>


I fully support this

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I am in support of this.


Do not do this.


Oppose


Teacher strongly support

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<p>Parents have the right to know about anything regarding their child, period. </p>


Oppose Harmful Policy

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This model policy is a disgrace and a blatant attack on our vulnerable trans youth in Virginia.  An educator’s job is to help children, ALL children thrive and learn.  This policy is narrowly focused on one group, LGBTQIA+ students.  This model policy is a Virginia state sponsored attack by the Virginia Board of Education to discriminate against one group of students.

Some educators and specialists teach over 300-500 students, and approx. 10 percent of these students use names that are different than the name in the student file.  In this draft model policy educators would need to contact all these parents before they are permitted to use a name that is not on file.

All students need to be treated with dignity and respect.  Call people the name (pronounced correctly) and pronoun they wish to be called and treat them with kindness and love.

This model policy is harmful to the students of Virginia.


I oppose this fully.


This policy will harm our students

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The evidence-based policy passed last year was designed to make schools a safe place for our transgender and gender-non-conforming youth.  Rolling back these human rights puts students already at higher risk of bullying, mental health problems and suicide in danger. Do not till back these rights which protect all our youth.


vehemently oppose

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<p>There is absolutely no good reason to treat trans youth in this inhumane manner. By doing so, you will be directly contributing to the increased mental health problems, including depression and anxiety, increased rates of self harm and suicide, and increased homelessness among trans youth. These kids are in NO way a threat to you or anyone else. Let them attend school and offer them the same supports as all our children deserve. Demonstrate to them that there IS NOTHING WRONG with them and that they have the RIGHT to grow into adulthood. Stop letting your fear of something you don't understand determine your decisions. </p>


I STRONGLY oppose this dangerous policy change

It has proven time and time again student's mental health suffers when their gender identity is not protected. School should be a safe space where ALL student can be themselves. If you turn that safe space into a dangerous space you will see a rise in student suicide and self-harm. It is the school and teacher's job to protect children from this cruelty. Every child has the right to feel safe, protected, and loved.

- From a LCPS teacher

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<p>It has proven time and time again student's mental health suffers when their gender identity is not protected. School should be a safe space where ALL student can be themselves. If you turn that safe space into a dangerous space you will see a rise in student suicide and self-harm. It is the school and teacher's job to protect children from this cruelty. Every child has the right to feel safe, protected, and loved. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>- From a LCPS teacher </p>


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Parent and teacher

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I oppose this executive order. It will harm what had been progress, cause distress to the mental health of children, and cause some to even harm themselves. Please reconsider!


I oppose this document

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As I read through this document, I felt extremely disappointed and outraged. These potential updates are terrifying for students and teachers, and will create a potentially hostile and harmful learning environment. By introducing this document, we restrict teachers' ability to support all students in their classrooms. I don't understand why we are even considering rolling back the previous guidance.


I fully oppose

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<p>I fully oppose this as both a mother and an educator. Parents, just like any humans, make mistakes. At times we make rash decisions out of fear of the unknown. Respecting “parents rights” when discussing a child’s chosen identity- could possibly make school a very unsafe space for certain kids. I myself had a male student who only felt comfortable wearing female s clothing (which he felt most comfortable in) at school because of the horrific names his mother would call him at home. This policy is opening itself up to kids having no safe space at all, and could even further lead to depression and an increase in suicide- both things that are already common to those who identify as LGBTQ due to the judgement they already face in our society.  This feels more like your own faith and beliefs trickling into your politics, and it is not fair to our children. Separate church and state. </p>


I fully oppose this.


Right to self

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<p>Please allow people to be who they are, it is not our business nor our right to invade other people's lives. </p>


Strongly Oppose - protect kids

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<p>As an educator, I see the effects of harassment and bullying. I especially see it in transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming students. Why does harassment protection stop at gender? Protect our youth, and stop projecting stereotypes and stigma onto them. Let kids live. Child/teen mental health is at an all-time low; this policy continues to harm the most vulnerable kids. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


I strongly support this policy.

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<p>I am a parent and a grandparent. I expect the school system to teach reading, writing, math, science, etc. It is NOT their job or right to knowingly subvert a parent's right to raise their child! The school needs to be transparent regarding all things that regard a minor student.  </p>


Respect parents and families

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<p>The academic, social, and emotional success of students relies on teachers, parents, abs students working together. Keeping one part of that triad in the dark will boy lead to success. Please implement the new model policy in the Commonwealth. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


We support you Youngkin!

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I applaud your efforts to remove the silliness enacted by Northram “protecting” the LBGT” students.


Trans rights are part of the right to the pursuit of happiness

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The pursuit of happiness ought not be restricted nor hindered by any bigotry or prejudice and the right of children to freely express their gender is an essential part of respecting children's rights. No parent nor authority may take any action or omission that would cause significant harm to kids on the basis of their gender identity.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly Oppose

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I strongly oppose this policy.


I vehemently oppose.

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This policy does not protect children but instead places many children in harms way. It is dangerous and scary for many students and families.


Absolutely disgusting

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It’s absolutely disgusting that an adult male is sitting here targeting children and pushing them to everything from mental illness, homelessness, to suicide for nothing more than political points. Enact this policy and the blood will be on your hands. Let kids be themselves. Their parents are NOT their wardens, they are fully realized human beings and can make their own decisions. Let them, support them in those decisions, and let them be THEMSELVES!!  I STRONGLY oppose this policy.


I strongly oppose

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The I strongly oppose the Governor's proposed policy because it is misguided and misinformed. It will make it harder for parents to support their kids because it required that the parent have to legally change their child's gender. This puts an undo burden on parents that they don't currently have in order to love and support their child in school.

It is likely to increase teen suicides and rip families apart.

Respectfully,

Elliot Kumpe


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Not what education is about

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I strongly oppose these proposed changes.  As a Virginia educator, I believe our role in education is not to bend over backwards to make parents feel in control of their child’s life.  Our job is to arm students with the tools to become educated citizens capable of making their own decisions.  These proposed changes will not allow students to make authentic connections with teachers and their peers and will therefore hinder their ability to realize that growth.  Do not change the current policy regarding transgender youth in Virginia.


This is a terrible policy decision.


I strongly oppose

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I have been a public school teacher now for six years and I can tell you without a doubt that Governor Youngkin's proposal will cause immeasurable harm to young Trans Virginians. School is meant to be a safe space where all children can learn, grow, and become the best versions of themselves - this proposal, however, will do just the opposite for many students. Trans kids who find themselves in unsupporting families will keep their identity secret not just from relatives but also from teachers and friends, people who could provide a quite literal lifeline for these students who so often suffer from depression and suicidal thoughts. Trans youth are already one of the most vulnerable populations in our society with some of the highest suicide rates. This proposal will only make these numbers worse. If you take away the last safe place these students have to be themselves you're taking away their chance at happiness, peace, and, in some cases, life. Please do not allow this proposal to take effect.


I Oppose the Governor's 2022 Model Policies

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Dear Governor,

I'm writing to oppose your 2022 Model Policies.  Regardless of your intentions, these policies will have tangible impact on marginalized young people. It will also place educators in tenuous positions, and further discourage teachers from wanting to stay in the field.

I know that my words will have little impact. However, your policies will leave lasting harm.

Please reconsider your position.

James abrenio


Trans policies proposed

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<p>I am totally opposed to the governor's trans policies. </p>


Strongly oppose.


Protect Trans Kids

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<p>I am a registered Virginia voter and I strongly oppose this guidance. </p>


Oppose Discrimination

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<p>I strongly oppose these regressive divisive policies.  </p>


I oppose this fully.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Prevent suicide! Don't do this!

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Here's a novel idea. How about we protect the most vulnerable people in our state? How can we help educate our students instead? How can we become a better, kinder society? Not like this. I strongly oppose this bill.


Support Trans Youth! Do Not Pass

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LGBTQ+ students are our most vulnerable population and have the highest rate of suicide when they are not supported and validated! You are only hurting them by passing legislation like this. You are risking them being outed to their families and possibly abandoned or abused. This will cause them mental anguish and lead to an increase in suicide rates. Not passing this will in no way negatively affect any other students but it will negatively affect these students. Despite your personal beliefs the evidence is clear, passing this legislation will harm LGBTQ+ youth.


Stop making life harder for trans kids

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Instead of spending energy to take down an already marginalized community further, focus on ways to improve the lives of Virginians.  I strongly oppose this. You are creating a school environment that is toxic and potentially deadly to these children.  Transgender people already have a suicide rate higher than the general population because they do not feel welcome in this world. Your plan contributes to this pain.


Oppose

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Transgender youth are at higher risk of being victims of violence than cisgender youth of the same age. They are sexually assaulted more often than their cisgender peers.  Trans kids need the previously proposed protections. They are also at a higher risk of suicide because of transphobic policies. “Suicidality is associated with desiring gender affirming surgery in the future, gender based victimisation and institutionalised cissexism. Interventions to increase social inclusion, reduce transphobia and enable access to gender affirming care, particularly surgical interventions, are potential areas of intervention.”

Zwickl, S., Wong, A.F.Q., Dowers, E. et al. Factors associated with suicide attempts among Australian transgender adults. BMC Psychiatry 21, 81 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-021-03084-7

Trans kids need their rights and safety protected.


Very much opposed.

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<p>If you claim to care about our children you should support their voice. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


I strongly support these policy changes

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I strongly support these policy changes.


I strongly oppose these model policies

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<p>These model policies betray an absolute lack of care, understanding, and support for the trans kids in our communities. </p>


I Oppose

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This measure interferes with the development of children as they are learning concepts of identity and self expression.  Inflicting trauma serves no purpose and has no place in our educational system.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


As an educator I do not support

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As an educator I do not support anything that puts kids' mental health and physical health at risk


No good

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<p>This policy is harmful to our Trans youth, it invades the family unit, inserts government where it doesn't belong, and could cause serious damage and even death toothed youth it would affect. Please don't set our country back this way. Just because you don't understand or agree Governor doesn't mean you have the right to take away a person's civil liberties and autonomy.  Please....do not do this. Talk to some actual Trans adults. Do not make decisions across the board like this in ignorance. You were elected for ALL the people of Virginia. </p>


I am strongly opposed.


Policies for treatment of transgender board of education

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Strongly oppose!  All children identify how they want to be called with nicknames or Anglicized names or family pet names. We don’t require parents to confirm these names. We all deserve to be called what we want to be called. Keep the Commonwealth out of these choices.


Transgender individuals belong in VA and I oppose this policy.

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I strongly oppose this policy. Transgender students must be provided an inclusive environment in schools.


Strongly oppose this measure

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<p>Do not impose your limited religious and ideological beliefs on us. </p>


Strongly oppose.


This policy is abhorrent

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<p>As a Fairfax County Public Schools middle school student who is not transgender, I find this policy abhorrent.  First of all, sometimes parents are not willing to let students be called their rightful/preferred names (like Liz for Elizabeth or TJ for Terrence John).  Second of all, this policy attacks innocent students who have not done anything wrong by restricting the right to free speech in a supposed safe place.  The government does not have any right to take away freedom of speech and freedom of expression (which are two founding principles of this country) over pronouns and nicknames.  </p>


Stop these pedos now.


Hurting kids

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<p>Gender dysmorphia is a real thing that leads to the death of thousands of kids a year. Not only will this cause psychological harm to students, it could lead to physical harm as well. We need to love and support ALL our students, not just the ones who fit a cookie cutter image of "perfection". </p>


Vehemently Oppose

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<p>This is absurd, a red herring, and a purposeful wedge issue. Keep your eye on the ball and stop with this hateful, murderous pandering to your ever-shrinking base. </p>


I fully oppose this.


I am completely opposed.


Strongly Agree

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All, a friend of mine who lives in the midwest has had other kids try to pressure his teenage daughter into transgender and homosexuality.   This is a movement across the united states that is unhealthy and started by a deeply sick person(s). It is meant to destroy the American way of life. Pass this legislation!!!


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly recommend


Please stop this madness and help kids, not hurt them

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Consider what adults caused you to be whatever gender you are now. Was there a moment you decided to be heterosexual, homosexual, or whatever? Of course not. You are what you were born to be. Quit pretending children aren't aware of their sexuality and let them grow up in their own normal. It is the right thing to do.

Otherwise, the mental health issues and inevitable suicides are on you and it won't be forgotten.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Youngkin’s policy endangers kids. I vehemently oppose.

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This abusive policy has nothing to do with parental rights. It is purely designed to appeal to the bigoted Trump base of the GOP. It will bring harm to Virginia’s trans youth, but the governor doesn’t care. He is only interested in his political future. I find it very interesting that most who support this egregious policy only post anonymously. That speaks volumes.


I absolutely SUPPORT and agree with this policy

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As a 'birthing parent', I support this policy.

I reject the agenda that the political left is attempting to force on students (of minor age) while they are in school or involved in school-sponsored activities.  The motives are appalling and the consequences are dangerous to the health and well-being of many, many students.

Children have no choice in whether or which school they attend. They must attend school for many hours a day, five days a week.  Without the protections for children and important parental decisions that are covered in this policy, students will be at greater risk of being placed in vulnerable situations without their parents knowledge and support, and importantly, without the ability to be able to successfully navigate their current school environment (given the clearly visible and voiced personal beliefs of too many teachers, counselors and administrators who are supposed to be protecting children).  No wonder children loathe going to school now more than ever!

Clearly, Gov. Youngkin and his team have designed an important policy to PROTECT children from administrators, teachers and school board trustees that DO NOT have the best interests of XX and XY students in mind.


I oppose this!

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I oppose this and feel the kids need to have a place they can feel safe!


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


support support support

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<p>Woo hoo thank you </p>


support support support


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Protect all children

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Youngkin is pandering to his base for political gain, transgender people have always been around and his focus on this issue is not designed to protect anything. It only harms the students most in need of our protection. Trans people ARE people


This is a terrible policy decision.


Oppose!!

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<p>I strongly oppose this! </p>


Fully support this measure

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A public school has no right to push or even support any gender transitioning of a minor without parental consent. Maybe if we stopped treating this as a choice that can be made by a child, we wouldn’t have to spell it out for the schools.

if a child genuinely experiences gender dysphoria, they should be in counseling to attempt to align the feelings with their biological sex. In 9 out of 10 cases, the dysphoria is resolved post puberty. Encouraging gender swap in a child is child abuse from my point of view.


I am completely opposed.


Strongly oppose this.

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This will mean their pronouns will not be honored if passed!


No.

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100% oppose this.  Stop these pedophiles now.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Fully Support/This Policy is Completely Unconstitutional. It should not exist.

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Transgender Accommodation Policy Changes from the VDOE:

This policy violates the rights of students all across Virginia. The VDOE cannot afford special privileges to certain students (a very small percentage at that) while stepping on the rights of others (over 98% of the student population.) This is a constitutional violation. I fully support these changes and suggest that this policy be abolished all together. A person is free to live their life as they like, but they must not impose their way of thinking or lifestyle on others especially whey it violates their constructional rights. No one has the right to enforce this type of policy and that includes the VDOE.

 All students have the right to attend school in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying. The VDOE has the responsibility to protect and encourage respect for all students and this includes non-transgender students.  The VDOE must fully acknowledges the rights of parents to exercise their fundamental rights granted by the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Virginia state Code {Parent Bill of Rights) to direct the care, upbringing, and education of their children. Empowering parents is not only a fundamental right, but it is essential to improving outcomes for all children in Virginia. The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees religious freedom and prohibits the government from compelling speech that is contrary to an individual’s personal or religious beliefs. Further the Virginia State Code prohibits indoctrination of students in schools. The 2021 Model Policies disregarded the rights of parents and ignored other legal and constitutional principles that significantly impact how schools educate students.

This policy is an affront to Virginia students and parents. Schools have no right to tell student or parents what they should think or how to live. The school’s job is to teach students to think critically and nothing more. Give the power back to the parents and stay in your lane VDOE.


Don't use trans children as political pawns!

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<p>Preventing communities and schools from providing support and affirmation to trans youth is not the way to get elected. Cruelty hurts all of us and diminishes the current administration. Good public policy that improves the lives of all of us would be a better start. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Absolutely support! Thank you for advocating for our kids and teachers!

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As a parent with a child who feels compelled to follow the agenda, I have seen the manipulation, hurt and unhappiness follow. My daughter for the first time in a few years is finally adjusted, productive and happy. A year ago she was not in a good place, suicidal and lonely. She was choosing to follow her peers and influences around her at school and making choices about sexuality she thought was good based on world views. I can honestly say she is a different kid today in many ways, but mostly back to her old self, cracking jokes and carefree. She would be the first to say kids feel pressured to be a part of the trend, being told they can be/do whatever they want. However, she would tell you it did not bring the happiness she was seeking. Thank you, Youngkin, for letting parents have rights over their kids, and not allowing the schools to manipulate.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>What supposed problem is this trying to fix? This seems like a waste of time and energy and money. If a kid wants to be referred to as He/Him who is that hurting? If a homosexual doesn’t want to come out to their parents don’t you think there’s a reason? You will be hindering the mental and emotional growth of so many children and teenagers. Please focus  Virginia’s time and money on actual issues like homelessness. </p>


I strongly oppose

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<p>It costs us nothing to accept children for who they are. When we don’t the cost to them can be life threatening. We can choose to take steps to meet the promise of our democracy or we can choose to traumatize the most vulnerable in our care. Virginia, please be better than this. </p>


Support this stomgly


I oppose this fully.


Oppose transgender policy

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I strongly oppose Gov. Youngkin’s transgender policy.  All children should be cared for and treated equally .  My job is to protect and nurture all students!


I fully oppose this.


Strongly opposed


oppose


I am strongly opposed.


Absolutely horrific

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<p>Passing this would be absolutely tragic and would result in the increase in mental health issues and suicide for transgender and all LGBT children. This is not where our energy and resources need to go and this would make Virginia a dangerous and unsafe place for many. </p>


Support this


Support

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This brings schools back in line with where they should have been all along on this issue.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


STRONGLY OPPOSE!!


Strongly Oppose

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<p>Trans kids deserve to feel safe and respected in schools. I strongly oppose the policy change. </p>


Transgender policy

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The governor’s policy on transgender students is shortsighted and hateful. I oppose it. It is bad policy and this hate and discrimination is going to lead to tragedy for some transgender students.


I strongly oppose

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I am writing from the perspective of my 40 years of experience as a mental health counselor.  For 17 years, I concurrently ran a school for students with disabilities.  This school partnered with the local school division.

This policy is truly horrific and constitutes bullying of an already vulnerable group of children and youth.  These young people already have a high incidence of self harm; and many are from families who would harm them if they were outed.

Schools are charged with the responsibility of protecting students. This policy directly undermines this responsibility and puts struggling students at unnecessary risk of abuse at school and possibly at home.  Subsequently, education of  students is severely compromised.

This policy also undermines those parents who are supportive of their transgender children.

Contrary to proponents claims of "grooming"of young people to be transgender, it's actually this policy that is "grooming" schools and communities to be hateful towards these struggling students.

Please don't let this happen.

Carol O.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Fantastic change from 2021

Good evening,
 I read through the proposed changes and am very excited to see them through. The 2021 revision is an obvious intrusion into the parent/child life by several means including omission. The 2022 change ensures that parents (guardians) are in discussions regarding their minor child.
It can be argued that individuals against this change are driven by their political beliefs and / or didn’t read the changes. If so, they would realize the changes protect children in many ways during this time in their life… there’s no discrimination allowed rather, it reinforces the simple notion of involving family in challenging times.
Would love to see additional guidance for teachers and staff as well. Meaning, the way I understand the changes, if a parent does not speak with schools about <topic> (let’s say pronoun uses) then does the school or staff have to refer to a child with their preferred pronoun? I don’t believe they do. But if the parent is good with this, then the teachers / staff do? For names, sure, as those can be legally changed quite easily.. For sex identity, it’s a violation of basic biological facts. Can teachers or staff just refer to a child by their name and avoid the problem altogether?Thank you for this. Bring normalcy back to this great state.

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Good evening,

 I read through the proposed changes and am very excited to see them through. The 2021 revision is an obvious intrusion into the parent/child life by several means including omission. The 2022 change ensures that parents (guardians) are in discussions regarding their minor child.

It can be argued that individuals against this change are driven by their political beliefs and / or didn’t read the changes. If so, they would realize the changes protect children in many ways during this time in their life… there’s no discrimination allowed rather, it reinforces the simple notion of involving family in challenging times.

Would love to see additional guidance for teachers and staff as well. Meaning, the way I understand the changes, if a parent does not speak with schools about <topic> (let’s say pronoun uses) then does the school or staff have to refer to a child with their preferred pronoun? I don’t believe they do. But if the parent is good with this, then the teachers / staff do? For names, sure, as those can be legally changed quite easily.. For sex identity, it’s a violation of basic biological facts. Can teachers or staff just refer to a child by their name and avoid the problem altogether?

Thank you for this. Bring normalcy back to this great state.


OPPOSE


Vehemently opposed

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<p>I am absolutely opposed to this measure. </p>


Strongly support my governor


LOL! Hey guys,

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I was browsing YouTube the other day and found a HILLARIOUS video!!! Please check out The Man Song.

youtu.be/t7Y0I91rubg


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Support

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I have recently had friends who were teachers in the VA public school system leave their positions due to the 2021 Model Policies. I have also known students that left the public school system and enrolled in private Christian schools because of the current document in effect. The governor's proposal is sound and I am in support of this change.


Whole heartedly OPPOSE

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As a mother of three children, I cannot disagree with this more. Our children need to be safe to be themselves. Our world needs more authentically whole people in the world. I strongly oppose this.


I strongly oppose this

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<p>Asking teachers or other school personnel to "out" kids to their parents or guardians endangers kids. I have personally witnessed kids being kicked out of their homes, physically abused, and/or psychologically and emotionally abused for revealing their identity to a parent who was unaccepting, or worse, outright opposed. Kids who identify as LGBTQ+ are at high risk of abuse; this policy only enhances that risk in the name of parental rights. The child also has a right to privacy, and absent an immediate threat of harm to a child, it is not the teacher's job to inform a parent of the trans or other identity of a kid. </p>


I support


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


I fully oppose this.


I stand in opposition

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<p>I vehemently oppose endangering young people in order to score political points. We get it, Youngkin wants to be POTUS but the very real possibility of putting lives at risk is not the way to do it. This will backfire spectacularly. </p>


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Support strongly


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Thank you for caring about families, parents and children


I oppose this fully.


Fully oppose this dangerous policy change

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This change which states it protects all youth, including transgender youth, will certainly cause irreparable harm to LGBTQ+ youth, specifically trans youth.  If you don't need parental consent for Robert to be called Bobby, then why would you need parental consent for any other name preference?  This specifically targets trans youth, who are some of the most vulnerable -because- of policies like this.  Some kids cannot be out to their families, and schools are one of the only places they can safely authentically be themselves without fear of parental abuse.  You do realize that some parents will physically and psychologically abuse their trans children if those kids are outed to their parents, right?  Physical. Harm.  Bruises....Welts....This is not a joke.  What if, instead, you helped provide a supportive environment for these kids, no different than cis gender kids, who want to learn, play, explore, socialize, and be themselves?


Support the governor


This is a terrible policy decision.


I am completely opposed.


The concept of gender is not "ideological"

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As a parent of two Virginia public school students, I am in favor of policies that encourage and empower parents to be involved in their children's education and school experience. It seems to me that every school administrator and teacher is looking for that from parents, too. That's not what this guidance is about. It states that a person's gender, as an identity that exists separate from biological sex, is a mere ideological concept. Science refutes this, as do millions of people's lived experiences. The guidance claims a person's religious freedom may be restricted if they are required to be so MINIMALLY respectful as to use a student's preferred name. Where, in any major religion, is it a violation of practice to respect a trans person's identity? These rationales are a screen for some true reason to target and discriminate against trans youth, which I can only guess at because I don't understand how anyone could be afraid of a world where there are more choices, more safe spaces, more words for identity, and more education.

As a parent, it would be my dream for my child to learn more than I could teach them from a compassionate professional educator. It would be my dream for my child to feel so safe in their classroom that they can explore complex ideas like gender.


Attack on trans children is disgusting and intolerable

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Please do NOT pass this.


keep politics out of our school and leave the kids alone

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<p>Harmful policy proposal. We need to support our trans kids not alienate them. </p>


Strongly support our governor


I fully support Youngkin!

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There's a reason we elected Governor Youngkin... School policy and parental rights are vitally important!


Strongly opposed

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As a Virginia educator who puts their students first, I don’t believe in any legislation that

aims at harming or discriminating against children.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


I oppose this proposed rule

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<p>As an LGBTQ+ college student, I am vehemently opposed to this proposed rule because it would severely limit LGBTQ+ students safety, rights, and happiness. A supportive school environment is extremely important for all students to thrive and succeed--academically and emotionally. This proposed rule encourages staff members to out students, creating an environment of distrust and fear for some students. Students should feel safe to talk with staff members about things that are bothering them or issues they're having. By elevating "parents rights" over the safety and privacy of students, this rule could cause some students to be outed while in a home environment that is unsafe and non-accepting. I can't stress how much harm and anxiety this rule would cause for so many students. While parents have a right to some information about their children, students also have a right to privacy that should be respected. I grew up in a public school system in Maryland where the identity of students was respected and value--not suppressed and feared. I recommend that the Virginia government and educational system incorporate some of guidelines that Montgomery County Public Schools used for transgender and gender non-conforming students. Doing so would make students feel safer--which should be the ultimate goal when creating educational policy. Continuing forward with this policy could mean condemning so many LGBTQ+ students to unsafe and unwelcoming school and home environment. They deserve better. </p>


Giving parents their rights back

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<p>Too long have we gone astray from the kind of values that made our country better than others. I work in public school and I have seen the wormhole we have been digging and it keeps getting g deeper and many kids are now than ever having to faced too many issues. Parents are to raise their kids accordingly. Don’t confuse the kids anymore. They need guidance from their guardians, not the government. I fully support Youngkin’s change. </p>


I fully oppose this.


This is dangerous and cruel

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<p>This is an illegal and dangerous policy. It clearly violates state and federal laws. Please do not harm trans kids for political points. </p>


I am strongly opposed.


Don't force trans students to come out to unsupportive parents in order to get support at school!

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On the surface, this looks like it will protect trans kids at school. However, it will only further alienate those students who are not in a safe environment at home to express their true gender identity. To require a parent to sign off on name and pronoun changes in order to support kids at school is going to keep many students silent. Please reconsider this! Strongly oppose!


Strongly support


Oppose this disgusting plan

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This policy will lead to hate and violence against literal children. Not only that, but it will seriously increase the risk of youth self-harm, depression, anxiety, and additional physical and mental health issues. This is not the Virginia school system we should be.


This guidance is dangerous

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The proposed guidance for schools in VA will be dangerous for our students.  I have kids in Fairfax county schools who deserve teachers who can be civil enough to treat them with respect.  Using religion as an excuse to bully or endanger a child is wrong.  Virginia law states that no government employee or office shall discriminate on the basis of sex or gender identity (among other things.). Your guidance to schools is misguided and will expose queer and trans kids to harm from teachers and administrators who should be there to help.


Do not do this.


I am strongly opposed to this order.

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<p>This policy sets us back in time, to a point where students lived in fear, and we’re not feee to express themselves how they saw fit. This will put students lives at risk, and make our schools a less open and safe place for students to be who they are. As a parent and educator, this makes me angry, sad, and defiant. I will always stand on the side of protecting students and hearing them when they tell me who they are and who they want to be. Governor Youngkin should be ashamed of himself. Virginia deserves a governor who wants to govern the state, not run for president in his first year as governor. </p>


Transgender policy

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The changes you are trying to make will do immeasurable damage to young Virginians. Your actions are a disgrace to the Commonwealth. Shame on you.


I strongly oppose

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<p>Please protect trans kids. They need a place to be safe and seen for who they are. </p>


Policy

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Strongly opposed to this new policy.  Will hurt our trans kids and those who support the,.


Virginia transgender policy for schools.

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<p>Leave the kids alone unless they are being disruptive.  Half of them may be kidding.  The other half have understanding and supportive parents or could be in serious jeopardy.  </p>


I oppose this fully.


I support sanity


Strongly oppose.


I OPPOSE this cruel and inhumane treatment of trans students

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All of our students deserve to be happy and to be treated with respect and dignity. It shouldn't matter what gender someone is! Their lives are precious and we need to protect them and let them know they are loved regardless of their gender! Please reconsider this and think of how it will negatively impact so many kids.


I strongly support this. As a young woman, I want to feel safe in my sport and bathrooms.

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<p>As a young female student athlete, I strongly support this policy. Not only is it unfair to women to have to compete against men, but it’s also extremely uncomfortable to share a bathroom or locker room with a member of the opposite sex. Not only do I feel violated, but I feel unsafe. Don’t take away women’s rights to feel SAFE in their own bathroom or  locker room. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Strongly oppose this harmful policy

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Our students should be protected, supported and not made to feel less-than human. Children are children no matter their gender identity and the state of Virginia should do everything in it's power to provide a safe, inclusive environment not this despicable policy.  Appalling.!


This is a terrible policy decision.


This policy change is an invasion of trans kid’s privacy

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<p>Please stop stop taking advantage of the general public’s lack of understanding of/empathy for LGBTQ+ experience to win votes. We need to be teaching children (and adults) to have empathy for those with different life experiences to them including trans kids. </p>


Strongly oppose.

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<p>As a mother and a fellow human being, I strongly oppose. </p>


Strongly support


Support the updated policy submitted to vdoe

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<p>I support the updated draft for submission to the VDOE.  As parents we should be involved in any of these situations affecting our own children in school as they are minors. Thank you for the updates. </p>


Opposed.

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I completely oppose this and am horrified.


Strongly oppose

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As a Virginia resident, I strongly oppose this hateful attack against trans students.