Oppose

I am against the new model policies for students. These policies are not based in practices supported by any evidence or research and are guaranteed to lead to dangerous outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth. Specifically for high schools, accreditation is based on several categories including graduation and completion index, dropout rate, and chronic absenteeism. Policies like the newly introduced model policies will directly and negatively impact LGBTQ students' ability to meet these criteria and therefore impact their schools’ accreditation. Transgender youth in particular are six times more likely to miss school, while a third of surveyed LGBTQ students missed at least one entire day of school in the past month, all because they felt unsafe. If you want to address chronic absenteeism, addressing the reasons LGBTQ students feel unsafe in school is imperative. Creating more reasons for them to feel unsafe at school, for example by allowing teachers to misgender and misname them, will only exacerbate school avoidance and increase absenteeismEven when they are present, LGBTQ+ students are not effectively supported. 40% of LGBTQ students avoid Health/PE because they feel unsafe or uncomfortable, despite 2 credits of Health/PE being required for graduation. LGBTQ students who reported that they were considering dropping out of school cite two large issues as their reasoning: academic issues (68.4%) and hostile school climate (60.8%), including issues with harassment, unsupportive peers or educators, and gendered school policies/practices.When a student comes to a guidance counselor and says they want to get their GED because they can't stand being here anymore, which has happened on multiple occasions to one Henrico Co staff I know, the counselor does what is best for them. However, a GED does not count as a full graduation point, and a school environment that is so unsafe that they want to get their GED rather than stay long enough to graduate perpetuates lower scores on the graduation/completion index. When a student comes to talk about making it to graduation but cannot share that part of their struggle is transphobic bullying because the counselor will now be required to call their parents and explain why they are being bullied, the school cannot effectively support their success.These policies harm students. They do not set them up to be successful. Virginia schools made significant progress last year with the 2021 Model Policies. They were evidence-based, unlike the new policies. Parents already have a choice - to accept and love their children for who they are, or not to do so. Every decision made in schools should be made by answering the question “What is in the best interest of the student?” Adhering to these new policies is not in the best interest of the students.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am against the new model policies for students. These policies are not based in practices supported by any evidence or research and are guaranteed to lead to dangerous outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth.  \n\nSpecifically for high schools, accreditation is based on several categories including graduation and completion index, dropout rate, and chronic absenteeism. Policies like the newly introduced model policies will directly and negatively impact LGBTQ students' ability to meet these criteria and therefore impact their schools’ accreditation. Transgender youth in particular are six times more likely to miss school, while a third of surveyed LGBTQ students missed at least one entire day of school in the past month, all because they felt unsafe. If you want to address chronic absenteeism, addressing the reasons LGBTQ students feel unsafe in school is imperative. Creating more reasons for them to feel unsafe at school, for example by allowing teachers to misgender and misname them, will only exacerbate school avoidance and increase absenteeism\n\nEven when they are present, LGBTQ+ students are not effectively supported. 40% of LGBTQ students avoid Health/PE because they feel unsafe or uncomfortable, despite 2 credits of Health/PE being required for graduation. LGBTQ students who reported that they were considering dropping out of school  cite two large issues as their reasoning: academic issues (68.4%) and hostile school climate (60.8%), including issues with harassment, unsupportive peers or educators, and gendered school policies/practices.\n\nWhen a student comes to a guidance counselor and says they want to get their GED because they can't stand being here anymore, which has happened on multiple occasions to one Henrico Co staff I know, the counselor does what is best for them. However, a GED does not count as a full graduation point, and a school environment that is so unsafe that they want to get their GED rather than stay long enough to graduate perpetuates lower scores on the graduation/completion index. When a student comes to talk about making it to graduation but cannot share that part of their struggle is transphobic bullying because the counselor will now be required to call their parents and explain why they are being bullied, the school cannot effectively support their success.\n\nThese policies harm students. They do not set them up to be successful. Virginia schools made significant progress last year with the 2021 Model Policies. They were evidence-based, unlike the new policies. Parents already have a choice - to accept and love their children for who they are, or not to do so. Every decision made in schools should be made by answering the question “What is in the best interest of the student?” Adhering to these new policies is not in the best interest of the students."}">I am against the new model policies for students. These policies are not based in practices supported by any evidence or research and are guaranteed to lead to dangerous outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth.

Specifically for high schools, accreditation is based on several categories including graduation and completion index, dropout rate, and chronic absenteeism. Policies like the newly introduced model policies will directly and negatively impact LGBTQ students' ability to meet these criteria and therefore impact their schools’ accreditation. Transgender youth in particular are six times more likely to miss school, while a third of surveyed LGBTQ students missed at least one entire day of school in the past month, all because they felt unsafe. If you want to address chronic absenteeism, addressing the reasons LGBTQ students feel unsafe in school is imperative. Creating more reasons for them to feel unsafe at school, for example by allowing teachers to misgender and misname them, will only exacerbate school avoidance and increase absenteeism

Even when they are present, LGBTQ+ students are not effectively supported. 40% of LGBTQ students avoid Health/PE because they feel unsafe or uncomfortable, despite 2 credits of Health/PE being required for graduation. LGBTQ students who reported that they were considering dropping out of school cite two large issues as their reasoning: academic issues (68.4%) and hostile school climate (60.8%), including issues with harassment, unsupportive peers or educators, and gendered school policies/practices.

When a student comes to a guidance counselor and says they want to get their GED because they can't stand being here anymore, which has happened on multiple occasions to one Henrico Co staff I know, the counselor does what is best for them. However, a GED does not count as a full graduation point, and a school environment that is so unsafe that they want to get their GED rather than stay long enough to graduate perpetuates lower scores on the graduation/completion index. When a student comes to talk about making it to graduation but cannot share that part of their struggle is transphobic bullying because the counselor will now be required to call their parents and explain why they are being bullied, the school cannot effectively support their success.

These policies harm students. They do not set them up to be successful. Virginia schools made significant progress last year with the 2021 Model Policies. They were evidence-based, unlike the new policies. Parents already have a choice - to accept and love their children for who they are, or not to do so. Every decision made in schools should be made by answering the question “What is in the best interest of the student?” Adhering to these new policies is not in the best interest of the students.


Youngkin's "Student Policy" is a Cynical Ploy

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Let's face it, Youngkin's bill to take support away from trans & non-binary students is just a cynical ploy to rally the mob against some of the most vulnerable people in our society. Yes, he'll even go after defenseless young people if he thinks he can collect votes that way. We should be figuring out how to support all minorities, including trans & non-binary youth."}">Let's face it, Youngkin's bill to take support away from trans & non-binary students is just a cynical ploy to rally the mob against some of the most vulnerable people in our society. Yes, he'll even go after defenseless young people if he thinks he can collect votes that way. We should be figuring out how to support all minorities, including trans & non-binary youth.


Opposing these new model polices as they are harmful to trans and nonbinary kids

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I am writing to ask that you rescind these new model policies. They are harmful to transgender and nonbinary students and contrary to state law. Please stop targeting trans and nonbinary kids for harmful treatment.


Denying Trans people of all ages visibility and protection is immoral

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Childhood is a time of immense vulnerability.  Embracing our differences in childhood defines the line between encouraging growth/learning/development and bullying the vunerable. .  To deny protections to these incredibly vulnerable young people under our societies guidance is the essence of immorality and demonstrates the tendency of those who do to enjoy employing their power to abuse and terrorize those who are vulnerable.  The immorality of not protecting Trans or non-binary youth cannot be embraced by thoughtful, kind, loving, faithful, or religiously graced adults without shining a light on their loathsome hypocrisy.


STRONGLY OPPOSE!!!


ALL kids need parental support, Parents need to know what their children are doing/feeling

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If children in elementary school and middle school are mature enough to make life-altering decisions about their physical body and their sex, then why are they not mature enough to Drink, drive, serve in the military, hold ANY job they please???  There is a good reason why parents are responsible for their children until they turn 18......their minds and emotions and judgement are not developed enough or experienced enough to make those kind of decisions.  As a parent, I was involved with my children's schools, so teachers approached me while I was there.    But if something happened in my absence, I was grateful to teachers who helped me know what was going on!  Parents have a right to know what is going on with their children, and have the right to influence those children, hopefully in a loving, supportive way.


Strongly support parental rights

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Board of education, policy on treatment of Virginia transgender students.


Strongly opposed - worried about trans kids and educators

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I support my own trans kid, so my child is referred to by the name and gender they feel is right for them. To date, this has not been an issue at school - either with classmates or educators. In fact, my child has blossomed and is doing well both socially and academically.

When my own child is occasionally referred to by the wrong (for them) gender, they either shutdown completely or act out, which creates two issues in a school setting: 1. my kid's mental health is significantly at risk when they feel like their true identity isn't respected (or even recognized) and 2. educators are going to have a really hard time trying to teach a kid in that position.

Parents insisting that their trans boy be called "she" or their trans girl be called "he" at school aren't helping anyone. I know it's uncomfortable to make this change (even for me!), but you can't make it untrue. If a kid is trans, they're trans. Let's just love them for who they are and move on.


OPPOSE

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Strongly oppose. Protect trans kids!


Non trans kids have rights too!!!! I support!

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Keep your opinions away from my kid. You are the bullies. Spend some time

in public school and you will see which kids are being bullied. It’s the ones who nicely try to disagree. You slam them into the ground AND you want to remove parent rights? No way!


Oppose

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I oppose anti trans policies in schools. As a non-binary person I wish I had the language and support to accept and understand myself and others in school. This is an important mental health issue! Kids need support to feel safe and seen. I OPPOSE the draft policy and hope the VDEO rejects them.


PROTECT TRANS YOUTH - OPPOSE

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Strongly oppose the proposed legislation. This will have one result: more dead kids. But I guess that's all part of the plan since most folks supporting this heinous bill also REFUSE to support common sense gun laws and America's leading cause of death for ALL kids is gun violence, so, on brand for y'all ing losers. Get your head out of your ass and think of helping kids instead of your own stupid ass ignorant  agendas.


Strongly Oppose this Policy

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<p>I am 100% against this policy.  </p>


I Support It


Transgender rights matter even to me

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I'm a cis-gender woman, a word I didn't even know existed or what it meant until a few years ago. I find a lot of things about the transgender movement to be kind of weird and hard to get used to. But I also understand that transgender rights matter even to me. I was not \"lady-like\" enough growing up to escape condemnation. I needed unconditional love, not condemnation. I needed to be accepted for who I was and to grow up without crippling depression that took years to get over. That is all the transgender community wants and all of us should have this. From what I understand about medical treatment for transgender children, puberty blockers only give kids time to either grow out of a phase they may be in, or grow into future decisions about treatment in a way that gives them more time to decide before there are permanent changes to their bodies. Should they be certain that transition is what they truly want, they can attain a transition where they won't have secondary physical traits that make the transition less achievable. It keeps them safe as children and later as adults. The disinformation about this is dangerous and immoral. We all need to be more caring and rational about all of this and not allow zealous power-hungry politicians find new ways to interfere in our medical decisions."}">I'm a cis-gender woman, a word I didn't even know existed or what it meant until a few years ago. I find a lot of things about the transgender movement to be kind of weird and hard to get used to. But I also understand that transgender rights matter even to me. I was not "lady-like" enough growing up to escape condemnation. I needed unconditional love, not condemnation. I needed to be accepted for who I was and to grow up without crippling depression that took years to get over. That is all the transgender community wants and all of us should have this. From what I understand about medical treatment for transgender children, puberty blockers only give kids time to either grow out of a phase they may be in, or grow into future decisions about treatment in a way that gives them more time to decide before there are permanent changes to their bodies. Should they be certain that transition is what they truly want, they can attain a transition where they won't have secondary physical traits that make the transition less achievable. It keeps them safe as children and later as adults. The disinformation about this is dangerous and immoral. We all need to be more caring and rational about all of this and not allow zealous power-hungry politicians find new ways to interfere in our medical decisions.


OPPOSE transphobic student standards

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These proposed standards are absolutely transphobic, exclusionary, and harmful toward trans and gender-expansive LGBTQ+ students. Not only are these standards against current Virginia statute, but they are just using children as political pawns. Children deserve to have learning environments where they can focus on learning, not fear or invalidation. Gov. Youngkin's standards are not rooted in science or best practices. Just pure hate. He should leave both children and educators alone and stop trying to "legislate".


I stand against the Governor's Transgender Policy

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am a clergy person in Hanover County and have transgender students in my church, and active in my youth group. They are fearful of having to go to school under the draconian rules established by our county and in coordination with the governor's new standards. I deeply oppose the new, and urge us to go to the DOE established guidelines. Please act on science and knowledge and not fear. As a person of faith, I deeply believe that God loves all of us and does not make anyone flawed or wrong. These precious children are beloved, all of them, and the transgendered youth in our schools and churches are being targeted in unfair and ignorant ways."}">I am a clergy person in Hanover County and have transgender students in my church, and active in my youth group. They are fearful of having to go to school under the draconian rules established by our county and in coordination with the governor's new standards. I deeply oppose the new, and urge us to go to the DOE established guidelines. Please act on science and knowledge and not fear. As a person of faith, I deeply believe that God loves all of us and does not make anyone flawed or wrong. These precious children are beloved, all of them, and the transgendered youth in our schools and churches are being targeted in unfair and ignorant ways.


Transgender input

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THIS IS ABSURD - I'm totally opposed - we should be teaching our kids the 3 Rs in school - not about their 'born' identity.  We are a few selected trying to change God's way of life.


Unconstitutional and Purely Discriminatory

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We must protect trans children, at the end of the day they are our children and future. Being trans causes no harm but what causes harm is being bullied and being forced into a box. These kids need their freedom


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>The Commonwealth prides itself on being a place of love. This bill completely contradicts that. Children WILL be homeless and potentially killed because of legislature like this. It stands in opposition of existing legislature, and if the state of Virginia wants to protect its children, it will not allow this to pass. I STRONGLY urge every member of our state government to oppose these heinous policies. Do the right thing - make the Commonwealth safe for your children. </p>


Strongly Oppose new standards.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I strongly oppose new standards set by the Youngkin administration, as a parent and as a psychologist in training.  Being able to be themselves is ESSENTIAL for the mental health of children (see statistics below).  When children are brought up in an accepting environment, everyone wins. Parents do not get to choose the identities of someone else's children for them. Parents do not get to and should not get to dictate the demographic makeup of a classroom. True American values is finding strength in our differences, and it is exceptionally weak of your administration to not find it within yourselves to be good people and accept reality as it exists.\n\n"}">I strongly oppose new standards set by the Youngkin administration, as a parent and as a psychologist in training. Being able to be themselves is ESSENTIAL for the mental health of children (see statistics below). When children are brought up in an accepting environment, everyone wins. Parents do not get to choose the identities of someone else's children for them. Parents do not get to and should not get to dictate the demographic makeup of a classroom. True American values is finding strength in our differences, and it is exceptionally weak of your administration to not find it within yourselves to be good people and accept reality as it exists.


Support youth of the entire spectrum

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Legislation should not victimize minors in any way nor should it be used to preclude any expression harmless to others. The purpose of law is to protect and only through that effort should we act to punish. Who is being “protected” by discrimination against trans youth? I know who is being punished those who harmlessly seek to fulfill the richness and complexity of their gender identity. Support trans youth.


Strongly oppose Support Trans & LGBT children

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These policies introduced are going to increase suicide rates of children, homelessness rate of children, abuse rates of children, and bullying statistics of children. These policies hurt our kids and Virginia will do everything we can to stop them.


The policy is not internally consistent - should not be passed

The policy sounds confused. It states it's up to parents to determine their children's pronouns, see number 2:
"Schools shall defer to parents to make the best decisions with respect to theirchildren: Parents are in the best position to work with their children and, whereappropriate, their children’s health care providers to determine (a) what names,nicknames, and/or pronouns, if any, shall be used for their child by teachers andschool staff while their child is at school"
Then later states"Practices such as compelling others to use preferred pronouns is premised on theideological belief that gender is a matter of personal choice or subjective experience, notsex"
and
"School Division] shall not compel [School Division] personnel or other students toaddress or refer to students in any manner that would violate theirconstitutionally protected rights."

The rights of students and parents will be endangered with this policy.

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The policy sounds confused. It states it's up to parents to determine their children's pronouns, see number 2:

"Schools shall defer to parents to make the best decisions with respect to their
children: Parents are in the best position to work with their children and, where
appropriate, their children’s health care providers to determine (a) 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"

Then later states
"Practices such as compelling others to use preferred pronouns is premised on the
ideological belief that gender is a matter of personal choice or subjective experience, not
sex"

and

"School Division] shall not compel [School Division] personnel or other students to
address or refer to students in any manner that would violate their
constitutionally protected rights."

The rights of students and parents will be endangered with this policy.


SUPPORT 1000% It is NOT kind or LOVING to lie to children

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A boy is a boy and a girl is a girl. Some kids may “feel” like their body is a mistake but will eventually outgrow it. He may become gay, she may become a lesbian. But northern can he “become” a she nor can she “become” a he. Don’t lie to these kids and encourage life choices that cannot be undone. Look at the physical damage as they age and look at the lack of improvement to mental health. And listen to detarnsitioners stories.Learn from mistakes of the past. Keep parents rights for their minor children.


common sense - schools should work with parents

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The new policies honor the inherent role of parents in the care of their children during school, athletics and other activities. Parents know their children’s needs better than anyone. If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and emotional support from parents. Under the new policies, school officials must keep parents fully informed, and require schools to enforce laws, regulations and policies that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.


Protect all children

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I strongly OPPOSE Gov. Younkin's model trans policy as it does not protect the mental health and physical safety of all children.


I support the Governor 100% and the restoration of parental rights.

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I support the Governor and his education department.  Parents should be included in every decision that involves their children!


Stop the denial I knew at age 5

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Children know at a very young age.  I knew I was gay around the age of five.  With no class or “grooming” I just knew how I felt.  Trans kids know who they are better than anyone.  I can only imagine how trapped a trans child feels when being forced to be someone they aren’t or having additional attention as they have to prove who they are.  That’s what this policy does.  It brings additional attention to children.  That is not needed and could create serious mental health concerns for that child. I oppose this new policy.  Let these kids be who they are."}'>Children know at a very young age. I knew I was gay around the age of five. With no class or “grooming” I just knew how I felt. Trans kids know who they are better than anyone. I can only imagine how trapped a trans child feels when being forced to be someone they aren’t or having additional attention as they have to prove who they are. That’s what this policy does. It brings additional attention to children. That is not needed and could create serious mental health concerns for that child. I oppose this new policy. Let these kids be who they are.


Strongly Opposed to the Proposed Changes to Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students

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These proposed changes are just another example of someone trying to send our Commonwealth back 100 years in time.  The partisan politics that are being used to twist the U.S. Constitution and our public policies are one of the primary reasons our children are so depressed and anxious about their futures.  Every time we take a step forward to providing them with a safe and secure environment where they can growth and learn without judgement, there is someone, like Gov. Youngkin, trying to push things backwards to a time when schools were segregated, women were to be kept bare-foot and pregnant, and homosexuals were jailed for not being "normal".  The majority of Virginians do not want this change.  It is just a political ploy that should remind us why it is so important to vote in every single election, especially at the state level.  The policies that guide the day-to-day practices in our schools should not be changed in this manner.  This will have long term negative effects on our children.  No matter what Gov. Youngkin says his actions clearly show that he is not interested in giving our educators the tools to make Virginia schools better.  The welfare of our children is obviously not one of his priorities.


Parental rights are paramount

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Parental rights are paramount. Children do not have the mentalcapacity to make life-changing decisions on their own and it is not the responsibility of the schools. Accommodations for a group of people can’t compromise the rights of others.


Protect Trans and Non-Binary Youth

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<p>The laws are barbaric and aimed at maintaining the comfort of the few unwilling to treat other humans as they wished to be treated. Protect trans and non binary youth. </p>


oppose this legislation

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This whole subject is pandering to another fringe group.


oppose this legislation


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>Youngkin doesn’t know what’s best for our kids </p>


Oppose

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I OPPOSE the guidance. Policies like these which don't support trans rights and don't protect transgender youth are one of the reason that my daughter and her trans wife moved to Canada. Don't drive our best and brightest away with policies that harm them! Please demonstrate young people that they are valued and protected as they are, by not passing the new guidance.


Common sense

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<p>I agree with the governor. The power should be with the parents.  </p>


Compassion

Kids have trouble enough growing up considering school shootings, Covid, parental separations and the deaths of friends or family members without being further traumatized by any part of the government giving them a hard time because of gender uncertainty. I could have been harassed for 'playing with th boys" but wasn't, because that sort of shaming was inconceivable at the time. I remained a tomboy all the way though high school, playing baseball with the boys 0often better than they were, working on the farm, and being otherwise very athletic. It did not hurt me, and certainly didn't hurt the guys to find gal that could do 'boy things' as well or better than them- including collegemate level maths, physics,, computing or car maintaince.Gender is internal, and not determined by either sex assigned at birth, or the things that interest a child or what they're skilled with doing. Similarly, sexuality is as much determined by the culture a child is raised in as any internal drive. Were this a pre -Christian society, most of these choices would not be at issue.Given that Jesus preached tolerance, not hate, it is UN-Christian to berate others just because they're different from you: Keep the story of the Sumerian woman at the well. Given that exile in Sumer, they were a hated people, yet JC accepted water from such a water--- water being the absolute necessity, in a desert environment.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Kids have trouble enough growing up considering school shootings, Covid, parental separations and the deaths of friends or family members without being further traumatized by any part of the government giving them a hard time because of gender uncertainty.  I could have been harassed for 'playing with th boys\" but wasn't, because that sort of shaming was inconceivable at the time.  I remained a tomboy all the way though high school, playing baseball with the boys 0often better than they were, working on the farm, and being otherwise very athletic.   It did not hurt me, and certainly didn't hurt the guys to find gal that could do 'boy things' as well or better than them- including collegemate level maths,  physics,, computing or car maintaince.\n    Gender is internal, and not determined by either sex assigned at birth, or the things that interest a child or what they're  skilled with doing.  Similarly, sexuality is as much determined by the culture a child is raised in as any internal drive.  Were this a pre -Christian society, most of these choices would not be at issue.\nGiven that Jesus preached tolerance, not hate, it is UN-Christian to berate others just because they're different from you:  Keep the story of the Sumerian woman at the well. Given that exile in Sumer, they were a hated people, yet JC accepted water from such a water--- water being the absolute necessity, in a desert environment."}">Kids have trouble enough growing up considering school shootings, Covid, parental separations and the deaths of friends or family members without being further traumatized by any part of the government giving them a hard time because of gender uncertainty. I could have been harassed for 'playing with th boys" but wasn't, because that sort of shaming was inconceivable at the time. I remained a tomboy all the way though high school, playing baseball with the boys 0often better than they were, working on the farm, and being otherwise very athletic. It did not hurt me, and certainly didn't hurt the guys to find gal that could do 'boy things' as well or better than them- including collegemate level maths, physics,, computing or car maintaince.
Gender is internal, and not determined by either sex assigned at birth, or the things that interest a child or what they're skilled with doing. Similarly, sexuality is as much determined by the culture a child is raised in as any internal drive. Were this a pre -Christian society, most of these choices would not be at issue.
Given that Jesus preached tolerance, not hate, it is UN-Christian to berate others just because they're different from you: Keep the story of the Sumerian woman at the well. Given that exile in Sumer, they were a hated people, yet JC accepted water from such a water--- water being the absolute necessity, in a desert environment.


Strongly opposed

Luke Litwiller, Eastern Mennonite University

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I strongly oppose this. As an education enrollment professional, it is indisputable that schools should be places where all people can learn in an environment that is emotional and physically safe, free from bullying, and one that honors, celebrates, and respects their identities such that they can be their authentic selves. I have walked alongside trans and genderqueer students in their journey from k-12 systems into higher ed, and those stories of bullying, systemic identity erasure, and lack of institutional support have reinforced my belief that policies such as this which cause these students to be outed are so harmful and so wrong. Implementing this policy literally is the difference between life and death for many Virginian LGBTQ+ youth.

Please oppose this policy.

Luke Litwiller

Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment at Eastern Mennonite University


This is an anathema!

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Let kids be kids. Tales a rights are human rights. I strongly oppose!


Tragic error by youngkin.

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The 2021 guidelines are fine; this is unnecessary hate and fear-mongering. Lives matter, and this guidance will cost and hurt lives. Parents have always been free to be involved in their children’s education, if they try even a little.


This is transphobic bull targeting our most vulnerable citizens

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Forcing trans kids to endure insults from their peers is not acceptable. That is exactly what will happen as soon as school employees start using children's dead names and incorrect pronouns. I think middle school and high school are hard enough without putting a target on a kid's back simply because they're trans.

Shame on you, Mr. Youngkin. I hope you fully realize - at some point in your life - how hateful and damaging your actions are to the unguarded trans kids put into your care as the Governor of the great state of Virginia. I beg you to reconsider and put children first.


Oppose

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I hope when you look in the mirror you like what you see. You cant love someone if you are too busy judging them. I hope that GOD judges your action for condeming the Trans children. Burn in hell!!!!!!!


Protecting trans youth is undeniably necessary for a safe and healthy community.

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PROTECT TRANS YOUTH. This is not simply a political matter, or a matter of opinion. DOCTORS AGREE AND STATISTICS SHOW that supporting our kids can be the difference between life and death. Anyone suggesting otherwise is both highly ignorant and extremely bigoted. There is absolutely no room for intolerance in our schools, and the lack of compassion seen here in these comments is astounding to me. Those opposed are fostering a hostile environment ripe for bullying and violence. As parents, as adults, we are responsible for teaching our children kindness, respect, empathy, and acceptance, and modeling these values. Anyone expressing opposition or even hesitance has a duty to educate themselves on this matter from reliable primary and secondary sources (as I was taught in this very school district) before taking such a harmful stance with the potential for devastating, life-threatening consequences. Finally, if the student outcry has shown us anything, we should know that the student body largely supports their trans classmates. Parents could learn a thing or two from their kids, about LGBTQIA+ issues, and about being a decent human being with the capacity for learning, empathy, and compassion.


Leave trans people alone

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Our live are not yours to toy with, to hurt, or to deny.


Oppose

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I'm of the belief that this country was founded on the principle that we're all created equal. If we can't honor that, we are failing. Similarly, if VDOE can't protect the safety of its students, all of its students, it is failing.


Strongly Oppose - Protect Trans Youth

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When I attended a Virginia high school over ten years ago, I was an officer of the GSA (then known as the Gay Straight Alliance). We established a safe space program in our school where teachers could put stickers on their doors to signal to kids that they would support LGBTQ students. Our goal was to provide spaces where students would feel safe being themselves and supported unconditionally if they needed to speak with an adult. I hope that this program is still in place today and I strongly oppose any legislation that would effectively remove this essential service.

Studies have shown that having the support of an adult can reduce suicide rates among transgender youth (https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/trgh.2021.0079). Many students do not feel safe coming out to their parents. So a teacher may be the only adult that they trust.

If a parent is worried about their child keeping something from them, then they should consider if they are actually providing an environment where their child feels safe enough to talk to them or not. Instead of mistrusting kids and putting this on teachers (who have way more important work to do), please consider educating legislators and the public on gender, sexuality and mental health.


STRONGLY OPPOSE - THIS IS HORRENDOUS

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This is absolute  - PROTECT TRANS YOUTH


Utter nonsense and a smokescreen

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I have a lot I could say. But the trans \"issue\" is completely fabricated. As trans people we are hardly relevant to most of the population. We have some things that make us unique in certain ways, and it's hard enough as-is to come to a place of self-acceptance without so much extra hatred directed at us. This is a made up issue to distract people from the actual catastrophes that the politicians can't or won't do anything about. The state of the economy is an issue. The environment is an issue. Houselessness is an issue. Lack of nutrition and proper medical care are issues. Violence in our communities is an issue. And all of these issues are connected. Trans children playing sports? Not an issue. Not relevant. Why are we nitpicking their hormones and genitalia as it relates to \"fairness\" in sports? These are children playing sports. How about we focus first and foremost on whether these children feel welcome and included where they are. We don't need to project Darwinian, capitalist, survival-of-the-fittest nonsense onto them. Can we aspire to raise a generation that is less broken, more emotionally intelligent, more community-minded, more whole? This is all BS, and mister empty-eyed plastic face knows it."}">I have a lot I could say. But the trans "issue" is completely fabricated. As trans people we are hardly relevant to most of the population. We have some things that make us unique in certain ways, and it's hard enough as-is to come to a place of self-acceptance without so much extra hatred directed at us. This is a made up issue to distract people from the actual catastrophes that the politicians can't or won't do anything about. The state of the economy is an issue. The environment is an issue. Houselessness is an issue. Lack of nutrition and proper medical care are issues. Violence in our communities is an issue. And all of these issues are connected. Trans children playing sports? Not an issue. Not relevant. Why are we nitpicking their hormones and genitalia as it relates to "fairness" in sports? These are children playing sports. How about we focus first and foremost on whether these children feel welcome and included where they are. We don't need to project Darwinian, capitalist, survival-of-the-fittest nonsense onto them. Can we aspire to raise a generation that is less broken, more emotionally intelligent, more community-minded, more whole? This is all BS, and mister empty-eyed plastic face knows it.


Oppose the 2022 Policies; they are harmful to children

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<p>The proposed changes will have potentially devastating effects on the mental and physical health and safety of children and youth in the Commonwealth’s public schools by failing to affirm the personal identities of transgender students. I am also concerned about the negative impacts the policy changes would have on the Commonwealth’s education, health, and child welfare systems. I absolutely oppose the 2022 policies and recommend reinstating the policies that were developed with broad input in 2021. </p>


Oppose

I vehemently oppose Governor Youngkin's draft model policy on the treatment of transgender (trans) and non-binary youth in schools. I ask the VDOE to reject the draft model policy.The policy would require teachers and school staff to forcibly “out” students to their parents against their will in some circumstances, such as where a student seeks counseling. I have seen adults be harmed by being outed. I cannot imagine a child or teenager trying to deal with that type of harm and rejection/betrayal. Furthermore, it angers me to think that under the policy, teachers and other school staff would have no choice in how they treated trans and non-binary youth. No state policy should interfere with a teacher showing compassion to a student.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I vehemently oppose Governor Youngkin's draft model policy on the treatment of transgender (trans) and non-binary youth in schools. I ask the VDOE to reject the draft model policy.\n\nThe policy would require teachers and school staff to forcibly “out” students to their parents against their will in some circumstances, such as where a student seeks counseling. I have seen adults be harmed by being outed. I cannot imagine a child or teenager trying to deal with that type of harm and rejection/betrayal. \n\nFurthermore, it angers me to think that under the policy, teachers and other school staff would have no choice in how they treated trans and non-binary youth. No state policy should interfere with a teacher showing compassion to a student."}">I vehemently oppose Governor Youngkin's draft model policy on the treatment of transgender (trans) and non-binary youth in schools. I ask the VDOE to reject the draft model policy.

The policy would require teachers and school staff to forcibly “out” students to their parents against their will in some circumstances, such as where a student seeks counseling. I have seen adults be harmed by being outed. I cannot imagine a child or teenager trying to deal with that type of harm and rejection/betrayal.

Furthermore, it angers me to think that under the policy, teachers and other school staff would have no choice in how they treated trans and non-binary youth. No state policy should interfere with a teacher showing compassion to a student.


Oppose this hateful proposed policy

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As an educator for 20+ years, I oppose these hateful proposed policies that would deny students their dignity and safety. In my classrooms and programs, I have witnessed time and again how fostering a safe environment where all students learn to be themselves and respect others who are similarly developing into the people they know themselves to be, benefits a community of learners. It is healthy to maintain supportive educational environments.

It is a fact of life and truth of human existence that trans and gender non conforming people exist. We live in a world of great and beautiful gender diversity. I myself am a proud transgender non-binary person. No amount of hate will deny our existence and right to flourish.

Nationally certified boards of pediatrics support gender affirming care. Their recommendations include simple respect and gender affirming accommodations. By denying these protocols you will cause harm, outlined by many comments herein. What you propose is fueled by hate, and fear mongering for political gain. It threatens to degrade Virginia’s Educational system and our fabric of democracy by attacking the smallest & most vulnerable population of students.


I OPPOSE the guidance


We have to do better for are future

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This is wrong on so many level and if I have anything to do with our family the building five until I die this how serious I am about the situation


Full support of 2022 Guidelines

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<p>I support the rights of parents to raise their children, not the state. The state (schools) should never be allowed to usurp those rights in any way. Parents have the right to know any information about their children’s well-being while they are in school. Parents need to know their children are safe and not being indoctrinated in any agenda.  </p>
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Strongly Oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose the proposed policy changes. </p>


Stop objecting to people's existence!!

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I oppose Youngkin's proposed measures that will make life harder for trans kids. He and the rest of his garbage party need to stop making people's lives harder! It is not up to them how people are allowed to exist in the world!


Strong Opposition to the new Model Policies

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You wouldn't trust a fireman for advice on farming. You wouldn't trust a farmer for advice on brain surgery. And you wouldn't trust a surgeon for advice on plumbing. And yet, the Youngkin Administration believes that we should trust them on the treatment of transgender students, despite the fact that doctors, educators, researchers, and most importantly other transgender people have strongly opposed these policies since they were proposed. The original protections put in place had the input from dozens of experts in their field and were litigated meticulously in order to make them as comprehensive as they could. Why does Governor Youngkin believe that he has more expertise than any of them? He has neither experience in education, nor with transgender people. On top of that, just because someone is a parent, that does not give them the authority to decide how people should be treated outside their household. And yes, I do consider children to be people, not property. This whole thing is a big charade to cover up Glenn Youngkin's disregard for others' humanity and brings shame upon our commonwealth.


Oppose

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All children should feel safe and protected at school. As a citizen and social worker, I oppose Gov. Youngkin's policy targeting trans kids in school.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"In my 62 years: raised as a Christian, at 17 coerced (with fear) into marriage, at 21 left the church under pressure \"to change\" my ways by quitting softball, at 22 realized I could not \"be married\" for the rest of my life. Attempted suicide a handful of times, over 25 years. Few will ever know the hundreds of ugly comments, death threats, fired from one job for refusing the sexual advances of a supervisor, the life complications that arise from these things. I never told a living soul that I'm a trans man until I was 58, that is my therapist. At my age and experience I could write a book about the things I've experienced that would blow your mind. The MOST important thing I need to say to trans and gay youth and PARENTS of these children: A loving Creator made all of us with Love. Every one of us humans, all of nature and further than we can see beyond His earth. I am compelled to speak of Him on this subject because so often He has been used as a weapon in this discussion. The variety of humans, color, facial features etc., and nature with all its diversity and humor put on full display the Creator's Love and desire to be surrounded by ALL of His Creation. HE is diverse, HE is LOVE."}">In my 62 years: raised as a Christian, at 17 coerced (with fear) into marriage, at 21 left the church under pressure "to change" my ways by quitting softball, at 22 realized I could not "be married" for the rest of my life. Attempted suicide a handful of times, over 25 years. Few will ever know the hundreds of ugly comments, death threats, fired from one job for refusing the sexual advances of a supervisor, the life complications that arise from these things. I never told a living soul that I'm a trans man until I was 58, that is my therapist. At my age and experience I could write a book about the things I've experienced that would blow your mind. The MOST important thing I need to say to trans and gay youth and PARENTS of these children: A loving Creator made all of us with Love. Every one of us humans, all of nature and further than we can see beyond His earth. I am compelled to speak of Him on this subject because so often He has been used as a weapon in this discussion. The variety of humans, color, facial features etc., and nature with all its diversity and humor put on full display the Creator's Love and desire to be surrounded by ALL of His Creation. HE is diverse, HE is LOVE.


Strongly agree with the policy change

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This policy change is common sense and I strongly support it as well as parental rights to direct their children's education.  I am all for treating gender confused young people with the utmost respect and providing all the support, treatment, etc. that may need to help them through this confusing situation.  But we are doing no one any good when we encourage the denial of fundamental truths and observable facts, such as the sex you are is based on the body you were born with.  How someone feels about something or what someone wants does not determine facts.  The old policy that allowed for students to choose bathrooms/locker rooms, etc. based on the sex they felt like they were instead of what they really are is fundamentally unfair to other students, particularly young women including my own daughters, who may not be comfortable sharing intimate settings with members of the opposite sex.   Those students have as much right as transgender students to feel comfortable in their surroundings as well.  It's certainly unfair for young women to have to directly compete in sports with males who have an inherent physical advantage.


Opposing Youngkin 2022 draft policy on trans and non-binary youth in schools

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I oppose the proposed 2022 policy on trans and non-binary youth in schools as discriminatory, cruel, and inhumane.


Reject the proposed 2022 Model Policies

I am writing as a parent of a transgender child who lives in Arlington. Our daughter was assigned male at birth and let us know beginning at age 2 that she was not a boy. We spent the next three years watching her growth and development while conferring with medical and mental health professionals. When she was five, we all agreed that we should let her socially transition to living full time as a girl. She was so excited and happy when her kindergarten classmates knew her as a girl, when her teachers called her by her chosen feminine name, and when she was allowed to join her girl scout troop and her girls recreational soccer team. We kept meeting with medical and mental health professionals and eventually changed her legal name and gender and corrected all her legal documents to reflect her chosen name. She is generally happy at school and in our community and has a great group of friends. She is busy with school, Girl Scouts, soccer, and other activities typical of girls her age.She would be harmed if the proposed 2022 Model Policies went into effect. Any teacher or employee in our otherwise trans-affirming school district in Arlington could, according to these proposed policies, find her dead name from old school records and decide to call her that name, even though she has not answered to that name in several years. She would likely be subjected to harassment when classmates learned that she is transgender. Students would feel free to challenge her every time she uses the girls bathroom. Frankly, I can’t even imagine how awful she would feel because no one has treated her as a boy for her entire school career. I believe that her anxiety over being misgendered by teachers would make it impossible for her to feel safe enough in school to learn. We would likely have to remove her from school and either homeschool her or find the money for an affirming private school - money that we don’t have. These proposed 2022 model policies purport to provide “privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents” do not do what they say. The proposed policies expressly reject my parental right to raise my daughter in a state that provides protections for her. They reject my parental right to raise my daughter in a state that encourages schools to affirm her gender identity. These proposed model policies violate my First Amendment rights by imposing the religious beliefs of a minority - who believe that gender identity is an ideology that they can reject - on my personal religious belief system that incorporates gender identity as part of accepting a person as they are and as who they profess themselves to be. The proposed model policies violate my daughter’s First Amendment right not to have another group’s religious beliefs imposed on her life.Furthermore, I am opposed to these proposed model policies on behalf of other transgender and nonbinary students in Virginia. Many transgender students do not have the support of their parents and fear abuse if their parents learn that they are transgender. The proposed model policies would actively harm these students and leave many with no safe space and no safe adults. Please don’t take this step backward in Virginia. Follow the Virginia Human Rights Act that provides protection against discrimination based on gender identity. Reject these proposed 2022 model policies that would make school a frightening and unsafe place for my daughter and for other transgender and nonbinary students.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am writing as a parent of a transgender child who lives in Arlington. Our daughter was assigned male at birth and let us know beginning at age 2 that she was not a boy. We spent the next three years watching her growth and development while conferring with medical and mental health professionals. When she was five, we all agreed that we should let her socially transition to living full time as a girl. She was so excited and happy when her kindergarten classmates knew her as a girl, when her teachers called her by her chosen feminine name, and when she was allowed to join her girl scout troop and her girls recreational soccer team. We kept meeting with medical and mental health professionals and eventually changed her legal name and gender and corrected all her legal documents to reflect her chosen name. She is generally happy at school and in our community and has a great group of friends. She is busy with school, Girl Scouts, soccer, and other activities typical of girls her age.\n\nShe would be harmed if the proposed 2022 Model Policies went into effect. Any teacher or employee in our otherwise trans-affirming school district in Arlington could, according to these proposed policies, find her dead name from old school records and decide to call her that name, even though she has not answered to that name in several years. She would likely be subjected to harassment when classmates learned that she is transgender. Students would feel free to challenge her every time she uses the girls bathroom. Frankly, I can’t even imagine how awful she would feel because no one has treated her as a boy for her entire school career. I believe that her anxiety over being misgendered by teachers would make it impossible for her to feel safe enough in school to learn. We would likely have to remove her from school and either homeschool her or find the money for an affirming private school - money that we don’t have. \n\nThese proposed 2022 model policies purport to provide “privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents” do not do what they say. The proposed policies expressly reject my parental right to raise my daughter in a state that provides protections for her. They reject my parental right to raise my daughter in a state that encourages schools to affirm her gender identity. \n\nThese proposed model policies violate my First Amendment rights by imposing the religious beliefs of a minority - who believe that gender identity is an ideology  that they can reject - on my personal religious belief system that incorporates gender identity as part of accepting a person as they are and as who they profess themselves to be. The proposed model policies violate my daughter’s First Amendment right not to have another group’s religious beliefs imposed on her life.\n\nFurthermore, I am opposed to these proposed model policies on behalf of other transgender and nonbinary students in Virginia. Many transgender students do not have the support of their parents and fear abuse if their parents learn that they are transgender. The proposed model policies would actively harm these students and leave many with no safe space and no safe adults. \n\nPlease don’t take this step backward in Virginia. Follow the Virginia Human Rights Act that provides protection against discrimination based on gender identity. Reject these proposed 2022 model policies that would make school a frightening and unsafe place for my daughter and for other transgender and nonbinary students. \n"}'>I am writing as a parent of a transgender child who lives in Arlington. Our daughter was assigned male at birth and let us know beginning at age 2 that she was not a boy. We spent the next three years watching her growth and development while conferring with medical and mental health professionals. When she was five, we all agreed that we should let her socially transition to living full time as a girl. She was so excited and happy when her kindergarten classmates knew her as a girl, when her teachers called her by her chosen feminine name, and when she was allowed to join her girl scout troop and her girls recreational soccer team. We kept meeting with medical and mental health professionals and eventually changed her legal name and gender and corrected all her legal documents to reflect her chosen name. She is generally happy at school and in our community and has a great group of friends. She is busy with school, Girl Scouts, soccer, and other activities typical of girls her age.

She would be harmed if the proposed 2022 Model Policies went into effect. Any teacher or employee in our otherwise trans-affirming school district in Arlington could, according to these proposed policies, find her dead name from old school records and decide to call her that name, even though she has not answered to that name in several years. She would likely be subjected to harassment when classmates learned that she is transgender. Students would feel free to challenge her every time she uses the girls bathroom. Frankly, I can’t even imagine how awful she would feel because no one has treated her as a boy for her entire school career. I believe that her anxiety over being misgendered by teachers would make it impossible for her to feel safe enough in school to learn. We would likely have to remove her from school and either homeschool her or find the money for an affirming private school - money that we don’t have.

These proposed 2022 model policies purport to provide “privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents” do not do what they say. The proposed policies expressly reject my parental right to raise my daughter in a state that provides protections for her. They reject my parental right to raise my daughter in a state that encourages schools to affirm her gender identity.

These proposed model policies violate my First Amendment rights by imposing the religious beliefs of a minority - who believe that gender identity is an ideology that they can reject - on my personal religious belief system that incorporates gender identity as part of accepting a person as they are and as who they profess themselves to be. The proposed model policies violate my daughter’s First Amendment right not to have another group’s religious beliefs imposed on her life.

Furthermore, I am opposed to these proposed model policies on behalf of other transgender and nonbinary students in Virginia. Many transgender students do not have the support of their parents and fear abuse if their parents learn that they are transgender. The proposed model policies would actively harm these students and leave many with no safe space and no safe adults.

Please don’t take this step backward in Virginia. Follow the Virginia Human Rights Act that provides protection against discrimination based on gender identity. Reject these proposed 2022 model policies that would make school a frightening and unsafe place for my daughter and for other transgender and nonbinary students.


Change of policy is GOOD, change of gender not good

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Stop confusing the youth of today. Stop messing with their brains and bodies. Give them a chance to grow up and most will grow out of this phase with seems to be a social justice fad.


Oppose

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Shame on Youngkin and those who support this abdominal indifference.


Disgusting and hurtful!!

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Younkin's proposed policy is discriminatory, narrow-minded, and hurtful.  I hope he is blessed with grandchildren that fall under this proposal so he personally feels the harm he intends to propagate.  His proposal Is rooted in transphobia and seeks to further harm trans and nonbinary kids. It would erase trans and nonbinary youth from the classroom. It would require teachers and school staff to forcibly “out” students to their parents against their will in some circumstances, such as when a student seeks counseling.  It would prohibit teachers and school staff from supporting trans & nonbinary students, such as using a student’s affirming name & pronouns. It will create bathroom and sports policies that prohibit access and/or participation in activities consistent with their gender identity.  May he have a change of heart and consciousness and forget this politically-motivated proposal!\n"}">Younkin's proposed policy is discriminatory, narrow-minded, and hurtful. I hope he is blessed with grandchildren that fall under this proposal so he personally feels the harm he intends to propagate. His proposal Is rooted in transphobia and seeks to further harm trans and nonbinary kids. It would erase trans and nonbinary youth from the classroom. It would require teachers and school staff to forcibly “out” students to their parents against their will in some circumstances, such as when a student seeks counseling. It would prohibit teachers and school staff from supporting trans & nonbinary students, such as using a student’s affirming name & pronouns. It will create bathroom and sports policies that prohibit access and/or participation in activities consistent with their gender identity. May he have a change of heart and consciousness and forget this politically-motivated proposal!


Protect Emotionally Vulnerable Children and Parental Rights!

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.

The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians."

I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.

Sincerely,
Stephanie Pacheco
7604 Rudyard St
Falls Church, VA 22043

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Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Stephanie Pacheco
<br />7604 Rudyard St<br />Falls Church, VA 22043<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148815327" width="1" height="1" />


Strongly opposed

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Let's see. If we are all created in God's image then the image of God must also include trans people. To discriminate against this community is to sin against God.


Parent, Educator, and Church Leader Advocating for Trans/Non-Binary Students

I am a parent, special education teacher of trans/non-binary students, and Christian Educator and Deacon in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) and this is far more than a parent's right to know and choose what is best for their children. Children are not going to change who they are, but instead they will hide, and they will die due to the stress and anxiety of not being their true selves. My daughter (assigned male at birth) is fourteen years old and diagnosed as high-functioning autistic. She is brilliant and the school system never gave her a second thought as she has always passed everything and just didn't fit in with her neurotypical peers because she was so far advanced. The stresses became more apparent as she got older. We went on more medicines to help her fit in, and then in April 2022 she came out to me as transgender. I work in education and unlike many of my family members, am familiar with children's developmental psychology due to my graduate studies. So many of the walls that have been built through the years have came down as my daughter has been able to live her true identity. Sadly, so many of our youth do not have families that have been educated in psychology or are open enough to learn a new way of thinking, and even if they are, the students might be scared of reaching out to the adults in their lives not realizing how accepting can become. This stress leads to suicidal ideation and unhealthy spirals of dangerous behaviors. I would much rather have a transgender/non-binary child that is alive, than a child that never felt the ability to explore their identity with people they trust that is dead.I am writing for my students and my children's peers that do not have advocates or do not know they have advocates. Perhaps a 15 year-old doesn't know what is right for them at the time, but we need to give them the advantage of knowing that we trust them. If a small child says someone touches them inappropriately we are not going to question that, but if a teen says they identify as a gender that differs from the biological sex they were assigned at birth, we feel the need to say they do not know what they are talking about? We have came so far, and do not need to go backwards in a crisis of mental health affecting our young people.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am a parent, special education teacher of trans/non-binary students, and Christian Educator and Deacon in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) and this is far more than a parent's right to know and choose what is best for their children. Children are not going to change who they are, but instead they will hide, and they will die due to the stress and anxiety of not being their true selves. My daughter (assigned male at birth) is fourteen years old and diagnosed as high-functioning autistic. She is brilliant and the school system never gave her a second thought as she has always passed everything and just didn't fit in with her neurotypical peers because she was so far advanced. The stresses became more apparent as she got older. We went on more medicines to help her fit in, and then in April 2022 she came out to me as transgender. I work in education and unlike many of my family members, am familiar with children's developmental psychology due to my graduate studies. \n\nSo many of the walls that have been built through the years have came down as my daughter has been able to live her true identity. Sadly, so many of our youth do not have families that have been educated in psychology or are open enough to learn a new way of thinking, and even if they are, the students might be scared of reaching out to the adults in their lives not realizing how accepting can become. This stress leads to suicidal ideation and unhealthy spirals of dangerous behaviors. I would much rather have a transgender/non-binary child that is alive, than a child that never felt the ability to explore their identity with people they trust that is dead.\n\nI am writing for my students and my children's peers that do not have advocates or do not know they have advocates. Perhaps a 15 year-old doesn't know what is right for them at the time, but we need to give them the advantage of knowing that we trust them. If a small child says someone touches them inappropriately we are not going to question that, but if a teen says they identify as a gender that differs from the biological sex they were assigned at birth, we feel the need to say they do not know what they are talking about? \n\nWe have came so far, and do not need to go backwards in a crisis of mental health affecting our young people. "}">I am a parent, special education teacher of trans/non-binary students, and Christian Educator and Deacon in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) and this is far more than a parent's right to know and choose what is best for their children. Children are not going to change who they are, but instead they will hide, and they will die due to the stress and anxiety of not being their true selves. My daughter (assigned male at birth) is fourteen years old and diagnosed as high-functioning autistic. She is brilliant and the school system never gave her a second thought as she has always passed everything and just didn't fit in with her neurotypical peers because she was so far advanced. The stresses became more apparent as she got older. We went on more medicines to help her fit in, and then in April 2022 she came out to me as transgender. I work in education and unlike many of my family members, am familiar with children's developmental psychology due to my graduate studies.

So many of the walls that have been built through the years have came down as my daughter has been able to live her true identity. Sadly, so many of our youth do not have families that have been educated in psychology or are open enough to learn a new way of thinking, and even if they are, the students might be scared of reaching out to the adults in their lives not realizing how accepting can become. This stress leads to suicidal ideation and unhealthy spirals of dangerous behaviors. I would much rather have a transgender/non-binary child that is alive, than a child that never felt the ability to explore their identity with people they trust that is dead.

I am writing for my students and my children's peers that do not have advocates or do not know they have advocates. Perhaps a 15 year-old doesn't know what is right for them at the time, but we need to give them the advantage of knowing that we trust them. If a small child says someone touches them inappropriately we are not going to question that, but if a teen says they identify as a gender that differs from the biological sex they were assigned at birth, we feel the need to say they do not know what they are talking about?

We have came so far, and do not need to go backwards in a crisis of mental health affecting our young people.


Absolutely Support

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<p>This supports Biblical guidelines established by God Himself.  God's way is the only way, whether you agree or not.  I would not want my granddaughter to be harmed going into a restroom with a male - who pretends that he is otherwise.  Romans 1:26-27, "For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections; for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly.... America up until now has been a blessed nation - standing on the principles of God.  What a shame it will be to lose these blessings.  </p>


Strongly support

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The state does not own our children.  Departments of education need to get back to the basics reading, writing and arithmetic.  Biology, even to the casual observer, is not public educators strong suit.  There are only two genders!


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Elected leaders should stop tormenting vulnerable trans and queer children, and get to work fixing the substantive issues facing this country! Shame on Glenn Youngkin for demonizing trans youth as a way to distract from their lackluster plans to address real issues like housing and health care. We won't be fooled by Youngkin's attempt to turn trans kids into a sideshow for votes, instead of making sure they can go to school safely and get the care they need."}">Elected leaders should stop tormenting vulnerable trans and queer children, and get to work fixing the substantive issues facing this country! Shame on Glenn Youngkin for demonizing trans youth as a way to distract from their lackluster plans to address real issues like housing and health care. We won't be fooled by Youngkin's attempt to turn trans kids into a sideshow for votes, instead of making sure they can go to school safely and get the care they need.


Keep the State Policy as is

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am firmly against Youngkin’s team’s attempts at dismantling the current policy for transgender youth in school. As a registered nurse, I can assure you that the proposed changes will bring harm to transgender children and put their lives at risk. I have had the privilege of providing care to multiple transgender individuals throughout my 15 year career and every single one on these people shared how hard it is to find acceptance and belonging. Many were tortured as children for not fitting society’s mold and the majority were being treated for depression and suicidal ideation. Several of these individuals expressed to me how much it meant to be treated as human by me and how big of a difference that makes for them. They want to feel safe and belonging. These are very basic human needs that we ALL share. The proposed changes will make a difficult situation even harder and will further isolate children who are simply trying to go about their day and fit in where they feel comfortable while being true to themselves. As a society, we need to stop criminalizing people for being different and learn to respect and accept them."}'>I am firmly against Youngkin’s team’s attempts at dismantling the current policy for transgender youth in school. As a registered nurse, I can assure you that the proposed changes will bring harm to transgender children and put their lives at risk. I have had the privilege of providing care to multiple transgender individuals throughout my 15 year career and every single one on these people shared how hard it is to find acceptance and belonging. Many were tortured as children for not fitting society’s mold and the majority were being treated for depression and suicidal ideation. Several of these individuals expressed to me how much it meant to be treated as human by me and how big of a difference that makes for them. They want to feel safe and belonging. These are very basic human needs that we ALL share. The proposed changes will make a difficult situation even harder and will further isolate children who are simply trying to go about their day and fit in where they feel comfortable while being true to themselves. As a society, we need to stop criminalizing people for being different and learn to respect and accept them.


I oppose Youngkin’s transgender policy.

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I strongly oppose this action.


Support For Youngkin policy

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It is  mental illness to think hormone modifying drugs and pronoun changes will make someone happier. If a trans kid is as messed up as it seems the problem is in the brain. Seek individual help not county or state wide changes and adjustments that the majority have to make for a small % of mentally Ill kids.


I support the new policies, but don't hate those of a differing opinion.

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I support the new policy, but don’t hate those who have a differing opinion

I am appalled at some of the comments submitted in this forum. Each side hating the other will never resolve anything. Where did civil discourse go? Where has the American value of diplomacy gone? If each side would honestly listen to the other, and have a true American spirit of respect and love and finding a win-win solution, or at least the closest thing possible, perhaps we could get somewhere in our society. I am grateful for Governor Youngkin's wisdom and decisive action on these issues. Schools should be a safe environment for everyone on every side of the issues.

The issue of encouraging teachers and staff to let parents know about a student’s change of gender or name/pronoun reveals a deeper issue. What are the beliefs surrounding the role of parents in a child’s life? What is the purpose of a family? Why are some using our school culture to encourage students to keep secrets from their parents? I understand that not every child finds themselves in a relationship with their parents that is favorable. If such a relationship exists that a child feels uncomfortable with their parent finding out about their sexual orientation, then the real need is for the parent-child relationship to become more secure, open and to be healed. Understanding that this is easier said than done, perhaps efforts could be made to strengthen family relationships and foster understanding and trust between parent and child, rather than cater to the fear-based idea of keeping a child’s life secret from parents, or the unsound idea that children should be protected from the influence of a parent. Of course, there is no place in the home for abuse, and those who abuse will be held accountable by a Higher Power. But it is wrong to automatically assume and act as though all parents will resort to abuse upon becoming aware of their child’s choices regarding gender orientation. It is not fair to the majority of families, who do have compassionate parents who care very much about their children feeling accepted and receiving the best mentoring possible for their development and growth into a happy human being.

Parents ought to be given a chance to be the mentor their children need in their search for truth and understanding about who they are or anything else they struggle with. If public schools won’t respect their self-evident right to do so, then parents should reconsider to whom they are delegating the responsibility of educating their children. Parents have the right to decide how their children should be educated and should be much more involved in the decisions about the daily environment their children are in.

The family is the fundamental unit of a healthy society. Even if you don’t believe that God exists and that God put us into families for a reason, no parent I know can deny the absolute joy and love that overwhelms you when you have a child. The connection and deep desire to protect and love them is real. How about we work on resources for families to learn how to heal their relationships, find common ground and truth and to love and accept one another, instead of pitting children against parents and modeling divisiveness, secrecy, and hate?

Concerning the bathrooms - experience has shown how unsafe it truly is for those claiming transgender identity to be allowed into the bathroom of their choice. Bullying doesn’t disappear just because they are allowed to go in the bathroom of their choice. If any children in schools are afraid of bullying by their own schoolmates in any way (regardless of the bathroom they use), then there is a problem with the Character Education of the schoolmates. Focus on teaching acceptance, love, and tolerance, diplomacy, respect, etc, instead of making the majority of children uncomfortable by allowing anyone in any bathroom at any time. Bullying has been a problem for a long time, not just because of transgender issues.


I OPPOSE the guidance

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I OPPOSE the guidance. On every level it is wrong and puts our youth at great risk.


Support Trans Children

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I am a retired Virginia Public Schools educator, and I am writing to voice my opposition to the governor’s proposed VDOE policy change for the treatment of transgender children. I request that the current 2021 model policies remain.
I was aware of children who identified as LBGTQ+, and I am confident that they were treated with respect and felt safe to be themselves in my classroom. It saddens me to think that, with the proposed anti-trans policy, children would be made to feel that it is necessary to hide who they truly are, to feel shame, experience discrimination, or feel unsafe in the school environment. School may be their only safe haven.
It is the duty of all educators to serve all children regardless of their physical, mental or emotional needs and differences. Diversity is one of strengths and beauties of humankind and should be appreciated, not destroyed by those who might have little understanding or appreciation for those children and their differences. School should be a place of acceptance, safety, encouragement, a place to build confidence and a place of fulfillment. All are crucial for creating a healthy learning environment and for the general health and safety of the children. Don’t let prejudice leave our LBGTQ+ children behind.


Transgender “crackdown”

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Why so much more worry about transgender issues affecting kids, than about school shootings? You guys try so hard to force all women to have children, then do not care a whit about what those children then have to go through. If you are not transgender, allowing transgender people to have rights does not affect you at sll.


Support!

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<p>I can only hope that my child gets an education from the school system that is centered around arithmetic, NOT SEXUALITY. And I hope that my rights and beliefs as a parent are honored to the fullest extent when it comes to raising my child. Bring on the 2022 Model Policies PLEASE! </p>


Keep your hands off kids and schools!

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<p>Your attempt at such a model is not law!  Your hands and ideations of what you think parents and students want/need is way out of line! This is not your domain and if you have ever taught or seen the fear of students going through such tumultuous times in school or seeing a name that they don’t feel is part of them, then you have no business trying to mandate some asinine model.  Keep your grubby hands out of schools and way from rights of parents and students who know what’s best for themselves and their family! </p>


Oppose


LBGTQ+

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A person’s sexuality or sexual orientation is not the business of the government, except to uphold every person’s civil rights.


Strongly oppose

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I strongly oppose the model policy


I strongly oppose this model policy

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I strongly oppose the model policy. When I was young I never felt comfortable with being seen in a certain group of people, girls. It was only after I figured out that what I wanted was to be treated and perceived as a boy and those around me did as such that I was able to academically and socially flourish. It was by being able to use the restroom that I wanted to and by being treated with respect and dignity that I was able to flourish. All anyone ever really wants is to be treated with dignity. That is all most transgender people want, to be treated as human. This policy strips that away from transgender youth. I strongly oppose this model policy."}'>I strongly oppose the model policy. When I was young I never felt comfortable with being seen in a certain group of people, girls. It was only after I figured out that what I wanted was to be treated and perceived as a boy and those around me did as such that I was able to academically and socially flourish. It was by being able to use the restroom that I wanted to and by being treated with respect and dignity that I was able to flourish. All anyone ever really wants is to be treated with dignity. That is all most transgender people want, to be treated as human. This policy strips that away from transgender youth. I strongly oppose this model policy.


Strongly Oppose, Stop state sanctioned transphobia

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Students should feel free to explore gender identity without any adults trying to address them based on what genitals they assume the kids have. Respect childrens autonomy and privacy. Transgender people aren’t going away and codifying hatred/fear will only isolate and harm more generations of people.


Protect trans & non-binary youth in Virginia

Friends –Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin’s administration and the Virginia Department of Education have released a proposed policy reversing evidence-based best practice trans-inclusive policies requiring Virginia’s schools to discriminate against transgender youth. We can’t let these policies take effect.The proposed policies seek to erase trans and non-binary youth from the classroom and create a hostile and even dangerous school environment. They restrict restroom access and sports participation for transgender and nonbinary students, require faculty and staff to “out” trans and nonbinary students to their parents, and prohibit teachers and staff from supporting trans students in a range of ways, including blocking them from using a student’s affirming name and pronouns.Every parent hopes our laws will ensure our children’s safety, protection, and freedom. But the Virginia Department of Education is rejecting those values and advancing a policy that would target LGBTQ kids for bullying and mistreatment just because of who they are.Can you take action today by submitting a public comment opposing these proposed changes and telling the Governor and Department of Education that #TransYouthBelongVA? Click here to learn more and submit – it takes two minutes. Let's send a rallying cry that hate does not belong in Virginia schools – and tell LGBTQ+ students that they deserve the safety to thrive, no matter where they are.Thank you,ReiP.S. Want to learn more about the public comment period and background on this attack? Click here for Equality Virginia’s “Take Action” hub: bit.ly/EQVAguide

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Friends –\nVirginia Governor Glenn Youngkin’s administration and the Virginia Department of Education have released a proposed policy reversing evidence-based best practice trans-inclusive policies requiring Virginia’s schools to discriminate against transgender youth. We can’t let these policies take effect.\nThe proposed policies seek to erase trans and non-binary youth from the classroom and create a hostile and even dangerous school environment. They restrict restroom access and sports participation for transgender and nonbinary students, require faculty and staff to “out” trans and nonbinary students to their parents, and prohibit teachers and staff from supporting trans students in a range of ways, including blocking them from using a student’s affirming name and pronouns.\n\nEvery parent hopes our laws will ensure our children’s safety, protection, and freedom. But the Virginia Department of Education is rejecting those values and advancing a policy that would target LGBTQ kids for bullying and mistreatment just because of who they are.\n\nCan you take action today by submitting a public comment opposing these proposed changes and telling the Governor and Department of Education that #TransYouthBelongVA? Click here to learn more and submit – it takes two minutes. \n\nLet's send a rallying cry that hate does not belong in Virginia schools – and tell LGBTQ+ students that they deserve the safety to thrive, no matter where they are.\n\nThank you,\nRei\n\nP.S. Want to learn more about the public comment period and background on this attack? Click here for Equality Virginia’s “Take Action” hub: bit.ly/EQVAguide"}">Friends –
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin’s administration and the Virginia Department of Education have released a proposed policy reversing evidence-based best practice trans-inclusive policies requiring Virginia’s schools to discriminate against transgender youth. We can’t let these policies take effect.
The proposed policies seek to erase trans and non-binary youth from the classroom and create a hostile and even dangerous school environment. They restrict restroom access and sports participation for transgender and nonbinary students, require faculty and staff to “out” trans and nonbinary students to their parents, and prohibit teachers and staff from supporting trans students in a range of ways, including blocking them from using a student’s affirming name and pronouns.

Every parent hopes our laws will ensure our children’s safety, protection, and freedom. But the Virginia Department of Education is rejecting those values and advancing a policy that would target LGBTQ kids for bullying and mistreatment just because of who they are.

Can you take action today by submitting a public comment opposing these proposed changes and telling the Governor and Department of Education that #TransYouthBelongVA? Click here to learn more and submit – it takes two minutes.

Let's send a rallying cry that hate does not belong in Virginia schools – and tell LGBTQ+ students that they deserve the safety to thrive, no matter where they are.

Thank you,
Rei

P.S. Want to learn more about the public comment period and background on this attack? Click here for Equality Virginia’s “Take Action” hub: bit.ly/EQVAguide


Gov. Youngkin's Trans policy

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No.  Just no.  Transgender rights are human rights.

And have we forgotten what state's miscegenation law, which forbade the marriage of Blacks and Whites, had to be struck down by the US Supreme Court?  That involved human rights, too.  Hasn't Virginia learned anything in the over 50 years since Loving v. Virginia?