Oppose

I am a 35 year old transgender man. While I have known that my body did not match my brain since I was a child, there weren't a lot of options for me back then. I didn't learn the word "transgender" until I was in college. And even when I didn't know there was a description or medical options for me, I still knew that I was male.I look at the visibility available today and it is so very bittersweet. I've been thrilled for kids today and jealous as well. I can't help but dream of how much better my life could have been, how much more comfortable I would have been then and would be now if I had access to things like puberty blockers when I was younger.No one is being indoctrinated or forced to be trans. Gay, queer, trans -- we've all been here, all along, we've always been in the classrooms and bathrooms. But there is a reason the trope "in the closet" is so well known; we were scared and we were hiding. I fear that children will feel the terrors of hatred, violence, and isolation again with the policies that Youngkin's proposing. My first suicide attempt was when I was 12 years old. Today I am happy, healthy, and thriving after my transition. Children deserve to feel safe, supported, and accepted. No one should have to hide in a closet to appease the few who won't even take the time to talk to us or, more importantly, listen to us.Please support these kids. ALL of them.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am a 35 year old transgender man.  While I have known that my body did not match my brain since I was a child, there weren't a lot of options for me back then.  I didn't learn the word \"transgender\" until I was in college.  And even when I didn't know there was a description or medical options for me, I still knew that I was male.\n\nI look at the visibility available today and it is so very bittersweet.  I've been thrilled for kids today and jealous as well.  I can't help but dream of how much better my life could have been, how much more comfortable I would have been then and would be now if I had access to things like puberty blockers when I was younger.\n\nNo one is being indoctrinated or forced to be trans.  Gay, queer, trans -- we've all been here, all along, we've always been in the classrooms and bathrooms.  But there is a reason the trope \"in the closet\" is so well known; we were scared and we were hiding. \n\nI fear that children will feel the terrors of hatred, violence, and isolation again with the policies that Youngkin's proposing.  \n\nMy first suicide attempt was when I was 12 years old.  Today I am happy, healthy, and thriving after my transition.   Children deserve to feel safe, supported, and accepted.  No one should have to hide in a closet to appease the few who won't even take the time to talk to us or, more importantly, listen to us.\n\nPlease support these kids.  ALL of them. "}">I am a 35 year old transgender man. While I have known that my body did not match my brain since I was a child, there weren't a lot of options for me back then. I didn't learn the word "transgender" until I was in college. And even when I didn't know there was a description or medical options for me, I still knew that I was male.

I look at the visibility available today and it is so very bittersweet. I've been thrilled for kids today and jealous as well. I can't help but dream of how much better my life could have been, how much more comfortable I would have been then and would be now if I had access to things like puberty blockers when I was younger.

No one is being indoctrinated or forced to be trans. Gay, queer, trans -- we've all been here, all along, we've always been in the classrooms and bathrooms. But there is a reason the trope "in the closet" is so well known; we were scared and we were hiding.

I fear that children will feel the terrors of hatred, violence, and isolation again with the policies that Youngkin's proposing.

My first suicide attempt was when I was 12 years old. Today I am happy, healthy, and thriving after my transition. Children deserve to feel safe, supported, and accepted. No one should have to hide in a closet to appease the few who won't even take the time to talk to us or, more importantly, listen to us.

Please support these kids. ALL of them.


Strongly support

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly agree with the proposed changes. Schools are supposed to teach academic disciplines without bias or agenda. They are supposed to demonstrate and help develop critical thinking skills. Children should not be indoctrinated behind closed doors without parental knowledge.  Children should be educated in open partnership with parents. </p>


Oppose

I OPPOSE the proposed 2022 VDOE model policy.I belong to a group of women who met online when we were all expecting in 1996. We have been corresponding for 26 years, via email and eventually Facebook, and have watched each others’ children grow to young adulthood. And out of about 100 families, at least 10 of these young people are transgender. A number of others are non-binary, or LGBTQ. These are my son’s contemporaries, and they are wonderful people from wonderful families. Some of them had school experiences that were affirming, but most of them did not. I have heard their stories, and seen how the bullying and denial of their essential selves has negatively impacted their mental health. One developed a drug habit as a way of coping, and accidentally overdosed. Her mother was devastated by that loss, as we all were. Everyone’s child deserves to be welcomed at school and made to feel safe.My son attended a well-regarded Virginia HS and I can recall asking him if any of his classmates were transgender. His reply? “Oh, yeah. It’s no big deal”. And in 2014, it was not a big deal. Things have changed since then. Adults are not as tolerant of differences, and our children are suffering for it. Virginia schools must offer a safe and equitable learning environment to ALL students, teachers, and staff, and that includes those who are LGBTQ. I know a number of people here in Virginia who are trans or have children who are trans. And of course I have known gay people literally all my life. They are here, they are our friends and neighbors. And as the Lord said, we must love our neighbors as ourselves.Please use the model policies approved in 2021 that offer protections for transgender and non-binary youth.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I OPPOSE the proposed 2022 VDOE model policy.\n\nI belong to a group of women who met online when we were all expecting in 1996.   We have been corresponding for 26 years, via email and eventually Facebook, and have watched each others’ children grow to young adulthood.   And out of about 100 families, at least 10 of these young people are transgender.  A number of others are non-binary, or LGBTQ.    These are my son’s contemporaries, and they are wonderful people from wonderful families.   \n\nSome of them had school experiences that were affirming, but most of them did not.   I have heard their stories, and seen how the bullying and denial of their essential selves has negatively impacted their mental health.  One developed a drug habit as a way of coping, and accidentally overdosed.  Her mother was devastated by that loss, as we all were.    Everyone’s child deserves to be welcomed at school and made to feel safe.\n\nMy son attended a well-regarded Virginia HS and I can recall asking him if any of his classmates were transgender.  His reply?  “Oh, yeah.  It’s no big deal”.  And in 2014, it was not a big deal.   Things have changed since then.  Adults are not as tolerant of differences, and our children are suffering for it.  \n\nVirginia schools must offer a safe and equitable learning environment to ALL students, teachers, and staff, and that includes those who are LGBTQ.  I know a number of people here in Virginia who are trans or have children who are trans.  And of course I have known gay people literally all my life.   They are here, they are our friends and neighbors.  And as the Lord said, we must love our neighbors as ourselves.\n\nPlease use the model policies approved in 2021 that offer protections for transgender and non-binary youth.    \n"}'>I OPPOSE the proposed 2022 VDOE model policy.

I belong to a group of women who met online when we were all expecting in 1996. We have been corresponding for 26 years, via email and eventually Facebook, and have watched each others’ children grow to young adulthood. And out of about 100 families, at least 10 of these young people are transgender. A number of others are non-binary, or LGBTQ. These are my son’s contemporaries, and they are wonderful people from wonderful families.

Some of them had school experiences that were affirming, but most of them did not. I have heard their stories, and seen how the bullying and denial of their essential selves has negatively impacted their mental health. One developed a drug habit as a way of coping, and accidentally overdosed. Her mother was devastated by that loss, as we all were. Everyone’s child deserves to be welcomed at school and made to feel safe.

My son attended a well-regarded Virginia HS and I can recall asking him if any of his classmates were transgender. His reply? “Oh, yeah. It’s no big deal”. And in 2014, it was not a big deal. Things have changed since then. Adults are not as tolerant of differences, and our children are suffering for it.

Virginia schools must offer a safe and equitable learning environment to ALL students, teachers, and staff, and that includes those who are LGBTQ. I know a number of people here in Virginia who are trans or have children who are trans. And of course I have known gay people literally all my life. They are here, they are our friends and neighbors. And as the Lord said, we must love our neighbors as ourselves.

Please use the model policies approved in 2021 that offer protections for transgender and non-binary youth.


Opposed to draft model policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I'm a resident of Virginia and I strongly oppose this draft policy and I want the VDOE to reject it. I'm a wife, mother, and grandmother, and under no circumstances do I think a child's educational environment should include challenging their definition of themselves. That work is to be done with parents and doctors, it's the school's obligation to make the environment comfortable and productive for each and every student.

If a student struggles with others who aren't like them, school is an excellent opportunity for them to learn diversity and acceptance. Any other environment is oppressive to those who aren't mainstream.


Re: Governor Youngkin's proposal to Va, Dept. of Education on Transgender Youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

The proposed changes in how Virginia schools treat transgender students is not only discriminatory but also physically and emotionally harmful to these students and their families. There is a great deal of suffering all kids deal with if they are different in any way: when you make calling out this difference on specific issues and disallowing proper medical treatment, that is cruel and unusual punishment.

The proposed changes regarding transgender minors are not about parents' rights: this is about denying children the ability to accept who they (and their peers) are. It is harmful to all students to see that their classmates can be treated so callously.

Please back off. Politics do not belong in the classroom. Ever.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

No part of our community is made safer or stronger by outing and endangering queer youths. These children are uniquely vulnerable, and to further thwart their chances at living safely is utterly dispicable.


Concerned Grandmother

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a grandmother of 2, I want to advocate for all children.  I strongly opposed the proposed policy which would require virginia schools to discriminate against transgender youth.  Evidence-based best practices trans-inclusive policies need to continue to keep our children safe.  I believe that children who are trans will be at increased risk of suicide if the proposed policies are implemented.

Thank you,

Dorothy Smith


I oppose these guidelines

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"These guidelines are unnecessary in schools. Let these students live their lives, and if Youngkin wants to do something for schools, he should increase pay for teachers and staff, and get more counselors. We are all suffering because of the stress of the last few years, and trans and binary students are subject to higher levels of stress and bullying. These guidelines create more problems for an already extremely vulnerable population. It is sad that Youngkin chooses to oppress instead of using his office to be a real leader and find ways to help. This is not what Virginia schools need or want."}'>These guidelines are unnecessary in schools. Let these students live their lives, and if Youngkin wants to do something for schools, he should increase pay for teachers and staff, and get more counselors. We are all suffering because of the stress of the last few years, and trans and binary students are subject to higher levels of stress and bullying. These guidelines create more problems for an already extremely vulnerable population. It is sad that Youngkin chooses to oppress instead of using his office to be a real leader and find ways to help. This is not what Virginia schools need or want.


Protect our Trans and nonbinary kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a straight ally of the LGBTQ community, I OPPOSE the guidance! It will harm our children.


Oppose The Virginia governor’s proposed model

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is moral and humanistic to support all members of our society. Further, it is not the place of our board of education to judge LGBTQ+ individuals. Instead, it is our public education’s job to accept and provide access to ALL (learning differences, physical differences, and gender differences)!


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Governor Youngkin’s policy will be a disaster for our kids. As a Virginia public school employee, queer person, and ally to my trans and non-binary friends and community, I demand that the state government abandon this abhorrent proposal. Queer children must be able to live freely as themselves, with no exceptions. This is a life-or-death issue, so if our elected officials truly care about children’s lives, they will condemn this policy."}'>Governor Youngkin’s policy will be a disaster for our kids. As a Virginia public school employee, queer person, and ally to my trans and non-binary friends and community, I demand that the state government abandon this abhorrent proposal. Queer children must be able to live freely as themselves, with no exceptions. This is a life-or-death issue, so if our elected officials truly care about children’s lives, they will condemn this policy.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support trans and non-binary students in our schools. Our responsibility is to educate ALL students. Their gender identity is irrelevant. I viciously oppose what Governor Youngkin is doing to turn his back on our students. That is simply inhumane.


Protect ALL children

<!DOCTYPE html>

You should be ashamed of yourself for not protecting children that are trans or bi. What does it matter where they go to the bathroom. Do you share a bathroom with your wife and kids? Of course, not. Why don't you attempt to grow a brain. Quit listening to these "christian" adults. They throw that word around like it makes them better than everybody else and they know everything. Actually, the majority have no understanding of the word "Christian" or "Godly". The majority of them are racist, ignorant, homophobic imbecils. All words they can't comprehend because they chose not to, not because they can't. Again, the difference between intelligence and education. And, anyone who still supports Dumb Ass Trump is a coward. This means you! You are more concerned with power and money, than with treating people with empathy and kindness. Again, SHAME on you!


Leave our trans children alone

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I vehemently oppose this anti trans legislation and fully believe in the rights of transgender people of all ages </p>


Parent OPPOSES Guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am a parent of a trans person. My child has already completed K-12 public education in the state of Virginia and has gone on to earn a BA with honors and is a current law student. However, the guidance as it is proposed would have completely devastated my child, and I have every reason to believe my child might have spiraled into depression and/or suicide. NO child should ever be subjected to policies such as these now or in the future."}'>I am a parent of a trans person. My child has already completed K-12 public education in the state of Virginia and has gone on to earn a BA with honors and is a current law student. However, the guidance as it is proposed would have completely devastated my child, and I have every reason to believe my child might have spiraled into depression and/or suicide. NO child should ever be subjected to policies such as these now or in the future.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I’ve worked in education for several years, including as an administrative assistant at a very good school in Fairfax County. Throughout my time there, I came to know and help several trans students who would use the bathrooms in the Main Office or come to the nurse’s office while I worked in there. \nThey were all able to go about their schooling with the names they chose as well as their preferred pronouns. Without that, school would have been immensely harder. These kids deserve to have their identities respected where they spend the majority of their time. To be denied their names or identity would create a mental health and bullying crisis in our schools."}'>I’ve worked in education for several years, including as an administrative assistant at a very good school in Fairfax County. Throughout my time there, I came to know and help several trans students who would use the bathrooms in the Main Office or come to the nurse’s office while I worked in there.
They were all able to go about their schooling with the names they chose as well as their preferred pronouns. Without that, school would have been immensely harder. These kids deserve to have their identities respected where they spend the majority of their time. To be denied their names or identity would create a mental health and bullying crisis in our schools.


I oppose the 2022 Model Policies, which violate children's rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a Virginia native, and I work in Virginia, serving Virginians, but I now live in the District of Columbia because of the rights afforded to LGBTQIA+ people in the District but denied in Virginia. It is a privilege that I was able to leave a state that denies my rights; many do not have a choice, least of all children. I oppose VDOE’s 2022 Model Policies and stand in support of all LGBTQIA+ Virginians, especially children, who are still subject to the state’s discrimination.

The 2022 Model Policies are blatantly discriminatory, directly contradict the VDOE’s mission to advance equitable and innovative learning, and violate children’s basic rights as prescribed in Virginia state and U.S. federal law, as well as international human rights agreements. I oppose the 2022 Model Policies in their entirety and demand that the VDOE rescind them, leaving the existing 2021 Model Policies in place.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

A friend I oppose the guidance!


Trans off our kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

Forcing children to assent to the belief that they should have the right to decide what gender they feel like being by parents who bow to the mantra of "do whatever feels right" is just folly. If they want to promote transgenderism as an adult, go right ahead (though I don't believe switching someone's gender via surgical or other means actually leads them to a more happy/satisfied life as the number of those people trying to or having committed suicide after the fact show). Kuddos to Gov. Youngkin for promoting parent-first and family-first policies that respect the fact that until someone is 18 their parents have the right and duty to act in their best interest. Parents may sometimes not know best or be small-minded on things, but on something as large as changing one's gender, I ALWAYS think they have their child's long-term future in mind when they are weary of having a hands-off "do whatever feels right" attitude.

On a side-note, for whoever is reading this that believes their life is or would be better as a transgender person, my heart goes out to you. But I respectfully ask that you do not seek to impose your way of life on everyone else (especially impressionable children). "Do whatever feels right" will only get you so far. We have to live in some stable universe, not one we invent. Maybe believe that in your next life you'll be the gender you'd rather be and leave it at that. Going against nature is never right. Glad our new governor seems to get this!


Oppose

I oppose this guidance. having teachers use my preferred name and pronouns, has significantly improved my mental health and interest in school. it makes me feel safe, and supported in my identity- and i feel like it would be extremely harmful to prevent teachers from doing so.Also, the whole thing about outing students is absurd. I have so many friends who want to use their preferred names and pronouns in school because that is their only place they can be who they are. Outing trans students to their potentially transphobic parents, would be doing so much more harm than good. In total, I believe this guidance has no real positive effects, and only helps create an uncomfortable and unsafe school environment. Passing this motion would only normalize bullying of trans students (since they aren’t being supported by the school) and making life even more difficult than it already is for trans youth.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I oppose this guidance. having teachers use my preferred name and pronouns, has significantly improved my mental health and interest in school. it makes me feel safe, and supported in my identity- and i feel like it would be extremely harmful to prevent teachers from doing so.\n\nAlso, the whole thing about outing students is absurd. I have so many friends who want to use their preferred names and pronouns in school because that is their only place they can be who they are. Outing trans students to their potentially transphobic parents, would be doing so much more harm than good. \n\nIn total, I believe this guidance has no real positive effects, and only helps create an uncomfortable and unsafe school environment. Passing this motion would only normalize bullying of trans students (since they aren’t being supported by the school) and making life even more difficult than it already is for trans youth. "}'>I oppose this guidance. having teachers use my preferred name and pronouns, has significantly improved my mental health and interest in school. it makes me feel safe, and supported in my identity- and i feel like it would be extremely harmful to prevent teachers from doing so.

Also, the whole thing about outing students is absurd. I have so many friends who want to use their preferred names and pronouns in school because that is their only place they can be who they are. Outing trans students to their potentially transphobic parents, would be doing so much more harm than good.

In total, I believe this guidance has no real positive effects, and only helps create an uncomfortable and unsafe school environment. Passing this motion would only normalize bullying of trans students (since they aren’t being supported by the school) and making life even more difficult than it already is for trans youth.


Keep our kids safe

<!DOCTYPE html>

These new changes to how schools and teachers interact with LGBTQ kids are dangerous. I do not support this. Do not move forward with this and endanger our children.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

It's about COMPASSION, NOT COMPREHENSION of queers


I OPPOSE the guidance.


Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

Support . . . mother of 6


Oppose


Virginia Schools should not tolerate bullying, harassment, and discrimination

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"There is no place for bullying, harassment, and discrimination in Virginia schools. I strongly oppose Governor Youngkin's 2022 proposed policy to remove the important protections for transgender and non-binary youth protected in the 2021 guidance. As a mother of a teenager in Virginia public schools and as a queer citizen, I strongly stand for protecting those most at risk for bullying and harrassment. Virginia should be a model of inclusivity and nondiscrimination in public spaces - the 2022 policy sets us back and is the wrong thing to do for Virginian families."}">There is no place for bullying, harassment, and discrimination in Virginia schools. I strongly oppose Governor Youngkin's 2022 proposed policy to remove the important protections for transgender and non-binary youth protected in the 2021 guidance. As a mother of a teenager in Virginia public schools and as a queer citizen, I strongly stand for protecting those most at risk for bullying and harrassment. Virginia should be a model of inclusivity and nondiscrimination in public spaces - the 2022 policy sets us back and is the wrong thing to do for Virginian families.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this guidance. It will hurt kids. I have a gay son in college and a daughter still in high school and I worry for them every day, even before this guidance.


DEI &  SEL & CRT

<!DOCTYPE html>

Please focus on academic education for Virginia's children. Emphasis on reading, writing, speaking, & mathematics has been neglected in favor of political social movements. Too much tax money has been wasted on "Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion" training  and "Social & Emotional Learning." Please leave socialization of children to their parents. Please spend education dollars on academic subjects. Too many children have fallen below standards for reading & mathematics due to the pandemic lockdowns & virtual "learning." Even before the pandemic, writing & public speaking has been all but ignored due to the emphasis on digital learning at the expense of all other methods. The only entity benefitting from the exponential increase in digital teaching is the digital manufacturing & marketing sector. Students are not being taught how to think and reason. Please refrain from teaching any form of "Critical Race Theory." This divisive theory is neither factual nor scientific. CRT drives competition and dislike between groups. The theory itself reinforces a negative fixed mindset, instead of a positive growth mindset. All of these detrimental outcomes are the opposite of the intent of DEI, so including both CRT and DEI only increases financial expenditures and confusion amongst students. Please allow teachers time & autonomy to teach; stop the unnecessary and overbearing bueraucratic paperwork that eats up their time and energy at the expense of their ability to teach.


I support governor’s pro parent policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

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.


Strongly oppose this and discrimination in all forms

<!DOCTYPE html>

There is absolutely no reason to discriminate against these individuals.  They should be treated with dignity and respect, not subjected to this shameful bigotry.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I oppose these regulations. This is not protecting kids. Trans and queer kids commit suicide at a much high rate than non queer kids. Often, school is the only place kids feel safe to be themselves. You can’t stop kids from being trans. You just can’t. Not affirming them doesn’t protect them. Outing queer kids to their parents doesn’t protect them. What research is this initiative based on? Talk to the experts, read the research. Talk to teachers. This is not right."}'>I oppose these regulations. This is not protecting kids. Trans and queer kids commit suicide at a much high rate than non queer kids. Often, school is the only place kids feel safe to be themselves. You can’t stop kids from being trans. You just can’t. Not affirming them doesn’t protect them. Outing queer kids to their parents doesn’t protect them. What research is this initiative based on? Talk to the experts, read the research. Talk to teachers. This is not right.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans children are far more likely to commit suicide from being forbidden to be who they really are. Protect trans kids' lives!


Oppose - Virginia should be ashamed of this discriminatory guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a parent, I’m horrified that you would put a child’s needs at the lowest priority.  The child should always be met where they are.  Not all parents embrace their children for who they are.  But those children should be educated in a safe place. Any guidance to the contrary has no place in Virginia.  </p>


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

As the parent of a trans child and a human being, I strongly protest the proposed changes to Virginia's policy. My child should feel safe and supported in school, not questioned and afraid.


Keep Trans Rights!

As a teacher in CCPS, I know students who would be directly affected by these regressive policies. My students learn best when they feel affirmed in the classroom. When I can use their names, their pronouns, and treat them with the basic respect that all human beings deserve. I feel sad to see how happy students are to hear me respect them after they share their experiences and fears with me, knowing that they have often had negative ones. However, I know that in my classroom, I can offer at least one place where the student(s) can feel safe. Please, do not force educators to share information about students' pronouns or names with their parents--keep previous policies in effect which safeguarded students well-beings and encouraged educators to protect students' private information. I work with students who do not feel ready to share with their families yet, and knowing that queer populations, especially trans populations, are at the highest risk for suicide, makes it so important that we allow them the space to wait to share what they want with who they want on their own terms. Forcibly outing students is UNSAFE! Further, requiring students to out themselves to use the correct bathrooms follows the same logic. We need to protect our youth and not force them to jump through hoops to get the care they need at school.I OPPOSE the new guidance. I will not be able to teach effectively in my classroom or build meaningful relationships with students if this guidance goes into effect.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"As a teacher in CCPS, I know students who would be directly affected by these regressive policies. \nMy students learn best when they feel affirmed in the classroom. When I can use their names, their pronouns, and treat them with the basic respect that all human beings deserve. I feel sad to see how happy students are to hear me respect them after they share their experiences and fears with me, knowing that they have often had negative ones. However, I know that in my classroom, I can offer at least one place where the student(s) can feel safe. \nPlease, do not force educators to share information about students' pronouns or names with their parents--keep previous policies in effect which safeguarded students well-beings and encouraged educators to protect students' private information. \nI work with students who do not feel ready to share with their families yet, and knowing that queer populations, especially trans populations, are at the highest risk for suicide, makes it so important that we allow them the space to wait to share what they want with who they want on their own terms. Forcibly outing students is UNSAFE! Further, requiring students to out themselves to use the correct bathrooms follows the same logic. We need to protect our youth and not force them to jump through hoops to get the care they need at school.\nI OPPOSE the new guidance. I will not be able to teach effectively in my classroom or build meaningful relationships with students if this guidance goes into effect."}">As a teacher in CCPS, I know students who would be directly affected by these regressive policies.
My students learn best when they feel affirmed in the classroom. When I can use their names, their pronouns, and treat them with the basic respect that all human beings deserve. I feel sad to see how happy students are to hear me respect them after they share their experiences and fears with me, knowing that they have often had negative ones. However, I know that in my classroom, I can offer at least one place where the student(s) can feel safe.
Please, do not force educators to share information about students' pronouns or names with their parents--keep previous policies in effect which safeguarded students well-beings and encouraged educators to protect students' private information.
I work with students who do not feel ready to share with their families yet, and knowing that queer populations, especially trans populations, are at the highest risk for suicide, makes it so important that we allow them the space to wait to share what they want with who they want on their own terms. Forcibly outing students is UNSAFE! Further, requiring students to out themselves to use the correct bathrooms follows the same logic. We need to protect our youth and not force them to jump through hoops to get the care they need at school.
I OPPOSE the new guidance. I will not be able to teach effectively in my classroom or build meaningful relationships with students if this guidance goes into effect.


Kid's Lives

This policy is so harmful to trans and nonbinary students. I work with kids in a school setting, and when we told our GSA students about the policy, the first comment that came out of a child's mouth was, "This will cause deaths." Then there was shock and sadness and fear. So many kids, even ones with very supportive parents, come out at school first. They find their community of peers and hopefully supportive adults, and they gradually expand the circle of people they are out to. Sometimes they are just questioning and exploring while they figure out who they are, and school is a safe place to do that. Sometimes school is the only safe place for that child. While I can understand parents wanting to know what is going on with their children, it's just a reality that some kids, in the absence of any safe space to be themselves, will suffer great harm.I want parents to know that those of us who work with these kids are not grooming them or trying to make them any sort of identity. Being trans or nonbinary right now is not easy. What we want to do is provide them with a chance to be whoever they are, and to figure out who they are in a supportive environment. ALL kids. That includes cisgender kids and religious kids and kids who aren't thinking about any of this stuff yet. But to support all kids, we have to let all kids be who they are. Our children need to be able to sit next to children who aren't like them, who have different beliefs, and be respectful. Our teachers need to be able to set aside their personal beliefs and be respectful. Pronouns and names and bathrooms and sports teams are not, in the end, such a difficult thing to deal with. It just requires seeing the humanity of another person and respecting that they know better than anyone else who they are.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"This policy is so harmful to trans and nonbinary students. I work with kids in a school setting, and when we told our GSA students about the policy, the first comment that came out of a child's mouth was, \"This will cause deaths.\" Then there was shock and sadness and fear. So many kids, even ones with very supportive parents, come out at school first. They find their community of peers and hopefully supportive adults, and they gradually expand the circle of people they are out to. Sometimes they are just questioning and exploring while they figure out who they are, and school is a safe place to do that. Sometimes school is the only safe place for that child. While I can understand parents wanting to know what is going on with their children, it's just a reality that some kids, in the absence of any safe space to be themselves, will suffer great harm.\nI want parents to know that those of us who work with these kids are not grooming them or trying to make them any sort of identity. Being trans or nonbinary right now is not easy. What we want to do is provide them with a chance to be whoever they are, and to figure out who they are in a supportive environment. ALL kids. That includes cisgender kids and religious kids and kids who aren't thinking about any of this stuff yet. But to support all kids, we have to let all kids be who they are. Our children need to be able to sit next to children who aren't like them, who have different beliefs, and be respectful. Our teachers need to be able to set aside their personal beliefs and be respectful. Pronouns and names and bathrooms and sports teams are not, in the end, such a difficult thing to deal with. It just requires seeing the humanity of another person and respecting that they know better than anyone else who they are."}">This policy is so harmful to trans and nonbinary students. I work with kids in a school setting, and when we told our GSA students about the policy, the first comment that came out of a child's mouth was, "This will cause deaths." Then there was shock and sadness and fear. So many kids, even ones with very supportive parents, come out at school first. They find their community of peers and hopefully supportive adults, and they gradually expand the circle of people they are out to. Sometimes they are just questioning and exploring while they figure out who they are, and school is a safe place to do that. Sometimes school is the only safe place for that child. While I can understand parents wanting to know what is going on with their children, it's just a reality that some kids, in the absence of any safe space to be themselves, will suffer great harm.
I want parents to know that those of us who work with these kids are not grooming them or trying to make them any sort of identity. Being trans or nonbinary right now is not easy. What we want to do is provide them with a chance to be whoever they are, and to figure out who they are in a supportive environment. ALL kids. That includes cisgender kids and religious kids and kids who aren't thinking about any of this stuff yet. But to support all kids, we have to let all kids be who they are. Our children need to be able to sit next to children who aren't like them, who have different beliefs, and be respectful. Our teachers need to be able to set aside their personal beliefs and be respectful. Pronouns and names and bathrooms and sports teams are not, in the end, such a difficult thing to deal with. It just requires seeing the humanity of another person and respecting that they know better than anyone else who they are.


Protections for Trans & Non-binary Students - VDO#

<!DOCTYPE html>

Last month, Governor Youngkin and the Virginia Department of Education proposed a deeply disturbing policy that endangers LGBTQI+ students.

Governor Youngkin's draft model policy is draconian, controlling, and rooted in transphobia. Trans and nonbinary students under this policy will be in danger of suffering:

Misgendering on a daily basis

Bullying and a learning environment with no accountability systems in place to address harassment

The inability to access sex-separated spaces matching their gender identity, which includes being prevented from using bathrooms or participating on sports teams matching their gender identity

Being “outed” to their parents by teachers without the student’s consent

LGBTQI+ students are already at a higher risk of suicide because of the isolation and stigmatization they face as a result of policies like the Virginia Department of Education’s that deny their identities and leave them unprotected. Virginia’s policy would only further ostracize already-marginalized students and leave them vulnerable to violence and ridicule in a world where their existence is not just denied, but increasingly labeled as dangerous-and even criminal-by extremists.

Protections for Trans & Non-Binary students must be kept in place.  If the VDOE's priority is protecting students, then these protections must be kept.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose anti-trans policies and hate in our schools. Shame on you, Youngkin. These are children.


Oppose 2022 model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a concerned community member, I oppose these proposed model policies, which are contrary to state law, are not evidence-based, and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids. </p>


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I strongly oppose this policy decision. Trans students in unsafe home environments will be harmed. Trans students at risk of suicide will be at higher risk. If this legislation had been passed and implemented when I, a trans person, was a student at an FCPS high school, I would have killed myself. I am now a successful graduate student and I have worked at some of the world's premier research laboratories. Do not do this to people like me."}">I strongly oppose this policy decision. Trans students in unsafe home environments will be harmed. Trans students at risk of suicide will be at higher risk. If this legislation had been passed and implemented when I, a trans person, was a student at an FCPS high school, I would have killed myself. I am now a successful graduate student and I have worked at some of the world's premier research laboratories. Do not do this to people like me.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am a 14 year old freshman in Fairfax County. I am also a queer trans kid. I know for at least myself, the removal of the 2021 model policies would leave me feeling unsafe in school. In the past I have struggled with mental health and attending school due to dysphoria, and I know for a fact that if I had to be misgendered and deadnamed all day every day I would do everything in my power to never attend school again. This may sound like an exaggeration, but please believe me when I say it’s not. If you looked at the suicide rates for transgender people, especially youth, who have had to face bigotry and discrimination you would know I am not being dramatic. So many kids like me are in fear of their rights so simply be addressed correctly. Transgender students are not threatening anyone or anything, yet you threaten us. The removal of the 2021 model policies is blatant transphobia and shows an extremely apparent lack of care for transgender students. Do better."}'>I am a 14 year old freshman in Fairfax County. I am also a queer trans kid. I know for at least myself, the removal of the 2021 model policies would leave me feeling unsafe in school. In the past I have struggled with mental health and attending school due to dysphoria, and I know for a fact that if I had to be misgendered and deadnamed all day every day I would do everything in my power to never attend school again. This may sound like an exaggeration, but please believe me when I say it’s not. If you looked at the suicide rates for transgender people, especially youth, who have had to face bigotry and discrimination you would know I am not being dramatic. So many kids like me are in fear of their rights so simply be addressed correctly. Transgender students are not threatening anyone or anything, yet you threaten us. The removal of the 2021 model policies is blatant transphobia and shows an extremely apparent lack of care for transgender students. Do better.


From a teacher who cares about her students

<!DOCTYPE html>

So many of my students are looking for safe places to express themselves And by enacting this law you are removing the ability for school to be one of those places.


Please protect ALL our kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p style="padding-left: 40px;">All kids need adults who will protect them and love them. They have no choice about what color their skin will be or who their parents will w. It’s our responsibility to protect our children no matter what type of skin they have or where they live, what they eat, who their parents are. Please ?? give all kids what they need. </p>


Please approve new law and protect children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support giving parents more power as they are the people primarily tasked with taking care of and raising their own children. These children are the children of parents and not the governments children therefore parents should have the ultimate say in how their children are identified. These current issues, among many others, are a major reason why I would never send my future children to a public school. I personally believe that God has assigned to each individual their sex at the moment of conception and until that person is 18 years old they should be referred to by their actual biological sex. A person over the age of 18 would have a greater ability to discern what is best for them and a deeper understanding of what these things mean. Most children do not fully understand concepts about sex and gender identity and this topic entering the classroom is more confusing for children. Parents should be the people discussing such personal issues with their children and determining what is best for their children. This is a slippery slope if we do not approve this new law: next a child could perhaps get an abortion without parental consent, or take transgender medications without parental consent. Children are children and they need their parents, not government stepping in unnecessarily. Please restore power to the parents and make our commonwealth a righteous one. </p>


OPPOSE

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I oppose the VDOE proposed revised policies. These are transphobic policies that put transgender children at greater risk in our educational system. </p>


Oppose

I OPPOSE the 2022 MODEL POLICIES ON THE PRIVACY, DIGNITY, AND RESPECTFOR ALL STUDENTS AND PARENTS IN VIRGINIA’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS proposed by Governor Youngkin and VDOE. I am a trans woman who went through public school in South Carolina in the 1980s and 90s. At that time, our society had much less awareness about the diversity of gender identity and expression, and trans people suffered from that general ignorance. Affirming policies for transgender youth in schools are designed to correct the historical social oversight of the existence and experiences of a minority population in schools. They have been designed in a way that is inclusive and offers what is nothing more or less than the protection of the human rights of trans and gender diverse individuals. I have taken dramatic and bold steps in my life in order to discover who I am and show up daily as the woman that I am. I harm no one by doing that. Yet, if I were legally forced to use the men's restroom in public, that would harm me and be very confusing and acutely uncomfortable for the men whose private restroom space I would be forced to invade. I am familiar with the mental health crises and chronic mental illness that often afflict closeted transgender people. I personally experienced decades of frequently debilitating depression. At points, I was unable to work; and even when I worked, I was unable to work to my potential, because I was unable to see and know myself. This is an exhausting and crippling way to live. We are well past the point where transgender youth should suffer in similar ways to how I did as a child. We are well past the point where transgender people sjould suffer in similar ways to how I suffered as a young adult, and throughout my adult life until I transitioned at age 43.The newly proposed draft policies regarding transgender youth in schools, while ostensibly aiming to protect all youth, restigmatize and isolate transgender students. These policies are dangerous and destructive for the minority population of transgender children in our schools. I strongly oppose these policies and suggest that they be abandoned and forgotten, as they are based in ignorance, social stigma, unexamined bias and privilege, and prejudice.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I OPPOSE the 2022 MODEL POLICIES ON THE PRIVACY, DIGNITY, AND RESPECT\nFOR ALL STUDENTS AND PARENTS IN VIRGINIA’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS proposed by Governor Youngkin and VDOE. I am a trans woman who went through public school in South Carolina in the 1980s and 90s. At that time, our society had much less awareness about the diversity of gender identity and expression, and trans people suffered from that general ignorance. Affirming policies for transgender youth in schools are designed to correct the historical social oversight of the existence and experiences of a minority population in schools. They have been designed in a way that is inclusive and offers what is nothing more or less than the protection of the human rights of trans and gender diverse individuals. \n\nI have taken dramatic and bold steps in my life in order to discover who I am and show up daily as the woman that I am. I harm no one by doing that. Yet, if I were legally forced to use the men's restroom in public, that would harm me and be very confusing and acutely uncomfortable for the men whose private restroom space I would be forced to invade. \n\nI am familiar with the mental health crises and chronic mental illness that often afflict closeted transgender people. I personally experienced decades of frequently debilitating depression. At points, I was unable to work; and even when I worked, I was unable to work to my potential, because I was unable to see and know myself. This is an exhausting and crippling way to live. \n\nWe are well past the point where transgender youth should suffer in similar ways to how I did as a child. We are well past the point where transgender people sjould suffer in similar ways to how I suffered as a young adult, and throughout my adult life until I transitioned at age 43.\n\nThe newly proposed draft policies regarding transgender youth in schools, while ostensibly aiming to protect all youth, restigmatize and isolate transgender students. These policies are dangerous and destructive for the minority population of transgender children in our schools. I strongly oppose these policies and suggest that they be abandoned and forgotten, as they are based in ignorance, social stigma, unexamined bias and privilege, and prejudice."}">I OPPOSE the 2022 MODEL POLICIES ON THE PRIVACY, DIGNITY, AND RESPECT
FOR ALL STUDENTS AND PARENTS IN VIRGINIA’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS proposed by Governor Youngkin and VDOE. I am a trans woman who went through public school in South Carolina in the 1980s and 90s. At that time, our society had much less awareness about the diversity of gender identity and expression, and trans people suffered from that general ignorance. Affirming policies for transgender youth in schools are designed to correct the historical social oversight of the existence and experiences of a minority population in schools. They have been designed in a way that is inclusive and offers what is nothing more or less than the protection of the human rights of trans and gender diverse individuals.

I have taken dramatic and bold steps in my life in order to discover who I am and show up daily as the woman that I am. I harm no one by doing that. Yet, if I were legally forced to use the men's restroom in public, that would harm me and be very confusing and acutely uncomfortable for the men whose private restroom space I would be forced to invade.

I am familiar with the mental health crises and chronic mental illness that often afflict closeted transgender people. I personally experienced decades of frequently debilitating depression. At points, I was unable to work; and even when I worked, I was unable to work to my potential, because I was unable to see and know myself. This is an exhausting and crippling way to live.

We are well past the point where transgender youth should suffer in similar ways to how I did as a child. We are well past the point where transgender people sjould suffer in similar ways to how I suffered as a young adult, and throughout my adult life until I transitioned at age 43.

The newly proposed draft policies regarding transgender youth in schools, while ostensibly aiming to protect all youth, restigmatize and isolate transgender students. These policies are dangerous and destructive for the minority population of transgender children in our schools. I strongly oppose these policies and suggest that they be abandoned and forgotten, as they are based in ignorance, social stigma, unexamined bias and privilege, and prejudice.


Trans kids in public schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

Why can’t we just let people be?  I am strongly opposed to younkins policies to transgender students in our public schools!


strongly support

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Strongly support Gov Youngkin/schools should be about education NOTHING else </p>


Oppose


Resist

<!DOCTYPE html>

“I Oppose the Guidance !”


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Gov. Youngkin's proposed model policy, if implemented, will create devastating consequences for trans kids.  While I do empathize with parents who are arguing that they have a right to know when their child informs school staff that they want to go by another name or pronouns, I believe there are better ways to address that concern.  I also do not believe that that is the true motivating factor of this model policy.  One factor, perhaps, but part of a bigger picture of a national effort by some far right groups to ultimately defund public schools so that they can use tax payer money to send their kids to private religious schools.  Trans kids are merely a political pawn that easily stokes fear in their base. This model policy is especially CRUEL.  I completely oppose the model policy put forth and call on Governor Youngkin to rescind the policy NOW. \n"}">Gov. Youngkin's proposed model policy, if implemented, will create devastating consequences for trans kids. While I do empathize with parents who are arguing that they have a right to know when their child informs school staff that they want to go by another name or pronouns, I believe there are better ways to address that concern. I also do not believe that that is the true motivating factor of this model policy. One factor, perhaps, but part of a bigger picture of a national effort by some far right groups to ultimately defund public schools so that they can use tax payer money to send their kids to private religious schools. Trans kids are merely a political pawn that easily stokes fear in their base. This model policy is especially CRUEL. I completely oppose the model policy put forth and call on Governor Youngkin to rescind the policy NOW.


Governor Youngkin's Proposal should be adopted by all school boards.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Governor Youngkin's Proposal makes common sense and should be adopted by all school boards because it reflects common sense.  </p>


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose this policy, these children need to be protected and have adults they can trust.


PRIORITY: ACADEMICS, not touchy feely and not shutting out parents

<!DOCTYPE html>

Acadmeics and classes should be the focus, not mental wellness or making bathrooms comfortable for trans.  The non-trans kids need to feel comfortable too.  They are not bad or wrong for feeling uncomfortable. Don't make the rest pay the price for more trans accommodations.  It is exhausting and frustrating to sit in school every day and live through this.  Trans are "so special" and need "special accommodations.  Teach me math and then shut up about your politics.  You aren't nice about it.  You're bullies.


Oppose (before high school)

<!DOCTYPE html>

There is no reason kids should be learning about transgenderism before high school, and certainly not before middle school when they haven't even become sexual beings yet (puberty), let alone gotten used to being that - puberty hits people hard! Transgender "learning" should only be opt-in at most, and only for Juniors and Seniors.

K-6 schooling needs to focus on basic learning, especially considering many students now lag behind because of COVID policies.


Support


do not support imposition of 'gender transition' experimentation on children

Lisa Hill, Catholic Secular Carmelite (OCDS)

<!DOCTYPE html>

I call out government and school support for the abuse of power by means of which doctors and institutions are profiting by mutilating, irreversible human experimentation on the bodies and minds of children: without informed consent. This is not a lack of support for children suffering from dysphoria, for children perceived as different, for children who experience discrimination or bullying. I also call out discrimination against citizens who, because of religious faith and/or conscientious objection, resist imposition of ideology by the government and public institutions. The original Hippocratic Oath explicitly forbade inducing abortion or assisting suicide, and I believe would have forbade attempting 'gender transition' of children. The principle of 'first do no harm', as well as the principle of informed consent enshrined in the Nuremberg legislation and in federal law 1981, are being bulldozed.


Strongly oppose - Protect trans kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

If this policy is put into place many kids will feel unsafe in school. Bullying and suicide rates will increase. Trans students will not be able to report bullying or talk to anyone about how they are feeling. This may also impact cisgender students who may use nicknames.
Governor Youngkin claims he’s for the parents, but parents who support their trans child do not get a say. For their child to be called the name they use and approve of they would have to legally change their child’s name and sex. This is a lengthy process requiring a lot of work. Governor Youngkin does not support that parents right to chose for their child unless it’s for a child he approves of.
There are also trans educators and supportive educators that will now feel out of place while teaching. There is already a teacher shortage, why push more teachers away?
The Governor does not actually care about parental rights, religious freedom, or children.


I OPPOSE the guidance.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

These proposed policies are against state law and will be harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids. Our kids should feel safe and respected in schools.


I SUPPORT!  ITS ABOUT TIME! Schools are for academics not "mental health"

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support!  It's why he got my vote for governor.  Schools and government are stepping and reaching too far.  too much!


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am strongly opposed, this will bring harm to trans kids/teens


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I’m a Virginia resident and I firmly oppose the new anti-trans policies for schools in this state. We need to protect LGBTQ+ students, not harm them, and these new policies are targeting a marginalized group for nothing more than political points. It’s wrong and I reiterate that again, I’m against these new policies.


Support Governor's policy changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a grandparent, father and born again Christian,I am really concerned about the public school system today. The Bible says children are a gift from God, it also says train up a child in the way he should go (God's way)and when he is old he won't depart from it. The word of God gives us direction, we need to follow it. I believe parents should be included in the decisions regarding these issues.I  pray for VA ,the USA and myself to follow God's word.Thank you Governor for standing up!


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Support all students. Students should be able to feel safe and respected in schoool.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I oppose Youngkin’s student policy. I have a family friend that would be directly impacted by this. They struggle so much already and this is such a private, medical situation that does further harm to children and their support systems. There are si many other educational issues, I don’t understand how this can be a focal point for his administration. The disinformation is a unbelievable from him and his party. I. Are about children and families thriving and this is not helpful."}'>I oppose Youngkin’s student policy. I have a family friend that would be directly impacted by this. They struggle so much already and this is such a private, medical situation that does further harm to children and their support systems. There are si many other educational issues, I don’t understand how this can be a focal point for his administration. The disinformation is a unbelievable from him and his party. I. Are about children and families thriving and this is not helpful.


I oppose restrictions on trans students

I oppose the placement of restrictions on trans students. Schools are a place of learning and every person, regardless of how they identify, should feel safe to be themselves.I am the sister of a transgender adult, friends of a parent of a transgender child, and am a concerned community member. I worry about the mental health of students that do not feel they can be themselves at school. Growing up and trying to be a functional human is hard enough without making students endure the abuse of a lack of basic respect (such as privacy, preferred names, bathroom privileges, and preferred pronouns). As a straight, cis woman, I grew up not liking my full name and went by a nickname at school and was referred to by she. These basic preferences hurt no other student or hurt their or my learning. Transgender children deserve those same show of respect. These regulations would only harm these students and would be a poor use of time that would take away from every student.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I oppose the placement of restrictions on trans students. Schools are a place of learning and every person, regardless of how they identify, should feel safe to be themselves.\nI am the sister of a transgender adult, friends of a parent of a transgender child, and am a concerned community member. I worry about the mental health of students that do not feel they can be themselves at school. Growing up and trying to be a functional human is hard enough without making students endure the abuse of a lack of basic respect (such as privacy, preferred names, bathroom privileges, and preferred pronouns). As a straight, cis woman, I grew up not liking my full name and went by a nickname at school and was referred to by she. These basic preferences hurt no other student or hurt their or my learning. Transgender children deserve those same show of respect. These regulations would only harm these students and would be a poor use of time that would take away from every student."}'>I oppose the placement of restrictions on trans students. Schools are a place of learning and every person, regardless of how they identify, should feel safe to be themselves.
I am the sister of a transgender adult, friends of a parent of a transgender child, and am a concerned community member. I worry about the mental health of students that do not feel they can be themselves at school. Growing up and trying to be a functional human is hard enough without making students endure the abuse of a lack of basic respect (such as privacy, preferred names, bathroom privileges, and preferred pronouns). As a straight, cis woman, I grew up not liking my full name and went by a nickname at school and was referred to by she. These basic preferences hurt no other student or hurt their or my learning. Transgender children deserve those same show of respect. These regulations would only harm these students and would be a poor use of time that would take away from every student.


I support

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you.  It has been horrible under the current guidelines.  I support Youngkin's changes.


Oppose


These policies undermine Virginia values and endanger Virginia kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

These "model" policies treat Virginians with utter disrespect and must not be implemented. They defy courtesy, decency, historical lessons, and current academic understanding. They undermine the values of Virginia and will lead to worse outcomes for Virginia children. I respectfully request these policies be delayed until they can be modified to avoid the harm they are likely to cause in current form.

Most obviously, they undermine basic courtesy and decency. I enjoy living and working in a state where people still use "sir" and "ma'am" and treat others with respect. This is how I am raising my children. When they were young, they sometimes said "sir" to Miss Carrie or "ma'am" to Mr. John, and I taught them to apologize and use the terms that those adults used for themselves. I did not teach them to argue that they thought Miss Carrie looked like a boy, and therefore should answer to "sir" and I CERTAINLY did not tell them to demand medical proof of specific genitalia. And yet, the state of Virginia thinks what we expect of preschoolers is unreasonable to expect from school staff. That is shameful. Asking for the sex on a birth certificate places anatomy in a role it has no business in. Let Virginia students be Virginia students; accord them the courtesy of offering polite corrections to people applying the wrong labels to them, and in general, expect Virginia educators to behave as well as I expected my children to behave before they started kindergarten.

Second, if a plea to common decency is insufficient, as Virginians we should remember lessons, even uncomfortable ones, from the past. This proposal dictates that anatomy be at the center of how we treat children. I find that disturbing, but I understand that the sex on a birth certificate seems to provide a clear certainly that we otherwise lack. Unfortunately, that is illusory. One example is found where scientific studies illustrate how a deficiency in 5a-reductase can cause genetically male babies to appear physically female or with ambiguous genitalia until puberty.1 Perhaps more widely known is that in the past, when children possessed ambiguous genitalia or significantly traumatized genitalia they would frequently have female genitalia surgically constructed, because the medical profession had greater ability to so than to create functioning male genitalia.2 While it is impossible to know how all of those children fared, many of them did not adapt well to the gender others assigned them, and went on to experience various challenges with that; some struggles with what we now consider gender dysphoria and at least one unfortunate case ended in suicide.3 These kids knew the labels applied to them were not right, even though their parents, teachers, and doctors all told them they were female -- believing that message would help them grow into happy, healthy females -- but something within them said those adults were wrong. The medical field now understands that gender is far more than anatomy and what names and pronouns are used, but these "model" policies fall back on such discredited thinking by placing so much emphasis on anatomy observed at birth. Let us not repeat the mistakes of the past and leave kids to struggle. Let's learn, and understand that sometimes kids understand things about themselves that even well-meaning adults don't.

Finally, I ask the government to remember Virginia as a center of learning, where our students and professors learn from others and make impressive discoveries. Virginia is the home of many great institutes of higher learning, and we need not rely on gut feelings in this case. I cited a few studies of intersex individuals, but there are academic studies directly on what impact there is to kids when the adults around them either do or do not listen to them on what pronouns and names are appropriate. The take-away is that listening to kids on their pronouns and chosen names -- not asking their parents, not asking for proof of what genitalia was observed at birth -- is life-saving.4 Children who are surrounded by those who address them the way the child asks have fewer depressive symptoms and less suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior than children whose wishes are not respected.5 The 2018 University of Texas study with this finding looked at whether the people around a student used their chosen name in four settings: at home, at school, at work, and among friends. While the individuals with the greatest support across the four areas were those with the fewest instances of depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts, each area mattered: an increase of one area where their chosen name was used was associated with a 29% decrease in suicidal ideation and a 56% decrease in suicidal behavior.6

To put it more bluntly, a child who can't use their chosen name at home but is called by it at school is less likely to attempt suicide. What could possibly be more important to Virginians than to keep our kids from dying? Why would we implement policies that make it harder for Virginia educators to protect the lives of students?

Is being slightly uncomfortable addressing someone as "Mason" when you might think of that person as "Madison" more important than that child's life?

No.

Is it reasonable for an educator to request information about a person's genitalia before using the pronouns that person requests?

No.

These are common sense conclusions, despite what some with political agendas might argue.

I ask the reader to put our kids above politics, and maintain Virginia values by treating people with decency, learning from past mistakes, and use the academic understanding others have built to continue improving Virginia. Please help parents raise the leaders of tomorrow's Virginia -- or at very least, don't put in place policies that will cost us some of those young Virginians. There can be nothing more important.

1. Imperato-McGinley, Julianne; Guerrero, Luis; Gautier, Teofilo; Peterson, Ralph Edward (December 1974). "Steroid 5alpha-reductase deficiency in man: an inherited form of male pseudohermaphroditism". Science. 186 (4170): 1213–1215. doi:10.1126/science.186.4170.1213. PMID 4432067. S2CID 36427689.

2. Diamond, Milton; Sigmundson, H. Keith (1997). "Sex Reassignment at Birth: Long-Term Review and Clinical Implications". Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. 151 (3): 298–304. doi:10.1001/archpedi.1997.02170400084015. PMID 9080940. Archived from the original on 8 June 2019. Retrieved 15 May 2013 – via University of Hawaii

3. Beh, Hazel Glenn; Diamond, Milton (2005). "David Reimer's Legacy: Limiting Parental Discretion". Cardozo Journal of Law and Gender. 12 (5): 5–30. hdl:10125/34765. ISSN 1074-5785. SSRN 1446966.

4. Minnesota Department of Health (2022). "Using a Person's Correct Pronouns Saves Lives." https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/suicide/documents/pronounssuicideprev.pdf. Retrieved 25 October 2022.

5. Russel, Stephen T.; Pollitt, Amanda M.; Gu, Li; Grossman, Arnold H. Grossman. "Chosen Name Use is Linked to Reduced Depressive Symptoms, Suicidal Ideation and Behavior among Transgender Youth." Journal of Adolescent Health. 2018 Oct; 63(4): 503–505. Published online 2018 Mar 30. doi: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.02.003

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6165713/ . Retrieved 25 October 2022.

6. Ibid.


prioitize kids mental health

<!DOCTYPE html>

you need to defend trans kids' rights. these policies are there to out kids to people they were not ready to share themselves with and single them out. it is not an easy thing to realize that your identity is not widely accepted, adding laws about it just makes it cruel. these kids deserve protection and mental health supports not anti-trans laws!


STRONGLY SUPPORT

<!DOCTYPE html>

With my wife I STRONGLY support.  It all began with a trans book for kindergardeners.  "Let's play nice, be open minded and think of the confused little kid in a random class."  Now it's kicking me out of the room, out of my own child's life? No way.  SUPPORT ALL THE WAY.


Oppose

Children are our most precious resource, and therefore need to be protected. Every child has a right to identify as they wish and feel respected in school. It's sad enough children go to school fearing they'll be massacred. We need them to feel comfortable and safe so they can learn and live up to their full potential.Provide individual bathrooms and changing areas for any student who prefers using these.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Children are our most precious resource, and therefore need to be protected. Every child has a right to identify as they wish and feel respected in school. It's sad enough children go to school fearing they'll be massacred. We need them to feel comfortable and safe so they can learn and live up to their full potential.\nProvide individual bathrooms and changing areas for any student who prefers using these."}">Children are our most precious resource, and therefore need to be protected. Every child has a right to identify as they wish and feel respected in school. It's sad enough children go to school fearing they'll be massacred. We need them to feel comfortable and safe so they can learn and live up to their full potential.
Provide individual bathrooms and changing areas for any student who prefers using these.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I oppose the draft policy and wish fro the Virginia Department Of Education to reject this policy. This policy, if enacted, will cause significant danger to trans students and their peers alike. This policy will force educators to loose trust for students, and will disable the right for educators to affirm to their proper identities. I have been a student leader though college in a LGBTQ+ organization that affirms all sexual orientations, identity, and gender; we have seen what harm inducing policies have contributed and this is one of those! I have known friends who have com out as trans after becoming an adult and leaving home, then their families giving death threats, during of cars, vandalizing apartment doors, theft, etc. In high school, three of my friends each took their own life after coming out as trans to their families. That type of trauma carries with their close friends and even their classmates. School should her a place of safety and well-being, this policy erases that for many students."}'>I oppose the draft policy and wish fro the Virginia Department Of Education to reject this policy. This policy, if enacted, will cause significant danger to trans students and their peers alike. This policy will force educators to loose trust for students, and will disable the right for educators to affirm to their proper identities. I have been a student leader though college in a LGBTQ+ organization that affirms all sexual orientations, identity, and gender; we have seen what harm inducing policies have contributed and this is one of those! I have known friends who have com out as trans after becoming an adult and leaving home, then their families giving death threats, during of cars, vandalizing apartment doors, theft, etc. In high school, three of my friends each took their own life after coming out as trans to their families. That type of trauma carries with their close friends and even their classmates. School should her a place of safety and well-being, this policy erases that for many students.


Protect  our kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor Youngkin ,   I am asking you or your office to not take any hash decisions, harassment towards nonbinary individuals or transgender individuals  nor rejecting them because is only going to cause more problems in our various communities and the families of this individuals are the ones that suffer most because it leads them into rejection and other violence problems with no protections in place for them regarding their safety.  If you had one of these as your own would you reject or harass them daily?


STRONGLY SUPPORT!  :-)

<!DOCTYPE html>

What a refreshing change to what we've been living through.  Yes!  Support!


I oppose Youngkin's LGBTQ suggestions!

<!DOCTYPE html>

Protect this marginalized group, and affirm LGBTQ+ rights by creating recommendations that apply to all students across the board. Don't make trans kids get a background check to use the bathroom! That is absurd!


I oppose the new draft policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the draft policy and ask the VDOE to reject such hateful and bigoted guidelines. As a person of faith, I fully support trans-affirming policies. What the Governor is proposing is cruel and will do nothing but compound the difficulties trans youth face. Please do the kind thing.


I support new policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support, and hope the future generations don't suffer as a result of this current generation's destructive efforts in the name of "love" </p>


I strongly OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"As a concerned Virginia resident and member of a faith community, I strongly oppose this proposed policy and I urge VDOE to swiftly reject the changes. Transgender and non-binary students have the right to be protected from discrimination and to be able to learn in an environment that affirms their identities. \n\nThis policy would only increase mental health challenges experienced by trans and non-binary students. A 2021 peer-reviewed study by The Trevor Project’s researchers found that transgender and nonbinary youth who reported gender identity acceptance from teachers and peers had significantly lower odds of attempting suicide in the past year. Having at least one accepting adult can reduce the risk of a suicide attempt among LGBTQ young people by 40 percent. Protect all Virginia students by rejecting this proposed policy. "}'>As a concerned Virginia resident and member of a faith community, I strongly oppose this proposed policy and I urge VDOE to swiftly reject the changes. Transgender and non-binary students have the right to be protected from discrimination and to be able to learn in an environment that affirms their identities.

This policy would only increase mental health challenges experienced by trans and non-binary students. A 2021 peer-reviewed study by The Trevor Project’s researchers found that transgender and nonbinary youth who reported gender identity acceptance from teachers and peers had significantly lower odds of attempting suicide in the past year. Having at least one accepting adult can reduce the risk of a suicide attempt among LGBTQ young people by 40 percent. Protect all Virginia students by rejecting this proposed policy.


Strongly oppose proposed policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

The proposed policy is harmful to students.

Scientific evidence is clear that biological gender exists on a spectrum. This policy continues to adhere to outdated and incorrect beliefs that there is only a binary. There is also evidence that nonbinary students are at greater risk of suicide. This risk is reduced in students who report feeling supported at school.

This policy will put students at much greater risk not only for suicide and self-harm, but also for depression, anxiety, abuse, bullying, and substance use.

Students should feel supported in their mental health and learning at school, regardless of parental intervention.


We support Governor Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you for supporting the rights of parents and the religious rights of families and teachers. If children are dealing with gender dysphoria, they need the help of parents and caring psychologists to overcome it.


Support All Students

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"As a teacher, it is my job to protect and put my students first. Not other teachers, not parents, not the governor, but the kids in my school. If that means I support them in what they're going through, with or without parent approval, then that is what I should be able to do. I refuse to contribute to teenage suicide rates, depression/anxiety rates, and self-harm because I cannot be an ally in my own job. I was once that student who struggled being in the LGBTQIA+ group and also fell intro all of the rates mentioned above. I vowed to help students, not make my classroom an unsafe space. I will stand my ground against this policy."}">As a teacher, it is my job to protect and put my students first. Not other teachers, not parents, not the governor, but the kids in my school. If that means I support them in what they're going through, with or without parent approval, then that is what I should be able to do. I refuse to contribute to teenage suicide rates, depression/anxiety rates, and self-harm because I cannot be an ally in my own job. I was once that student who struggled being in the LGBTQIA+ group and also fell intro all of the rates mentioned above. I vowed to help students, not make my classroom an unsafe space. I will stand my ground against this policy.


Protect our trans kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

LGBTQI+ students are already at a higher risk of suicide because of the isolation and stigmatization they face as a result of policies like the Virginia Department of Education’s that deny their identities and leave them unprotected. I strongly OPPOSE this guidance.


I support youngkins policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

I could not agree more with the governor’s polices . The left wing policies are destroying our country!


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans kids are kids - let them be. Let them play. Let them be loved. Stop trying to harm them.


School

<!DOCTYPE html>

The new policies honor the sacred 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.

Student participation in sex-specific athletics, school activities and events should be determined by sex, e.g., for overnight travel accommodations and locker rooms.

Students should use the bathrooms that correspond to their sex. Single-user bathrooms and facilities should be made available in accessible areas and provided with appropriate signage, indicating accessibility for all students.

The new policies protect the fundamental religious liberty interests of personnel and students.


They have my support

<!DOCTYPE html>

It boils down to this: no one gets to tell another person that their lived experiences are wrong. When a kid tells you they don't identify with how the world has told them to be, the only correct response is to remind them that they can be whomever they are and still be valid and loved.


STRONGLY SUPPORT

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support this new policy


Support Trans Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"My trans teen daughter attends a supportive and inclusive public high school. Politicians promoting anti-trans policy changes in order to advance their own careers are doing so by actively hurting all kids. Educating kids in an environment that models basic human dignity and respect for difference is actual education, not indoctrination. Please, please—don’t create social division within public schools by reversing existing policy. Our communities are best served by seeking common ground, not by ostracizing those among us who are most in need of safety and support. Trans kids exist—blocking bathroom access and ignoring their pronouns serves no one."}'>My trans teen daughter attends a supportive and inclusive public high school. Politicians promoting anti-trans policy changes in order to advance their own careers are doing so by actively hurting all kids. Educating kids in an environment that models basic human dignity and respect for difference is actual education, not indoctrination. Please, please—don’t create social division within public schools by reversing existing policy. Our communities are best served by seeking common ground, not by ostracizing those among us who are most in need of safety and support. Trans kids exist—blocking bathroom access and ignoring their pronouns serves no one.


NO

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose the model policies because they de-humanize, stigmatize, and endanger transgender children throughout the Commonwealth. Governor Youngkin and his so-called "moderate" administration should be ashamed at the radical right-wing policies they are pushing out of cruelty and bigotry.


sharp rise in gender clinic referrals is INSANE - SUPPORT

progressives are running toward a cliff and pushing children over it

<!DOCTYPE html>

We are allowing adults, influencers and even (with Northam's policy, which Youngkin's overrules) teachers and school admin to play pretend with today's youth, to confuse them.  Why is there such a hyper focus on sexuality in ones so young?  Why isn't the focus music, art, recess, academics and sports?  Why can't the youth find their identity in non-sexual things?  Kids so young don't need to hear about sexuality.  Wake up, those who oppose and think this is a good thing.  These are 5, 6, 7 year olds who you thikn have the "right" to try to change their biology?  May you be judged harshly for the cruelty you so misguidedly serve to them.


<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor Youngkin is clearly a transphobe. Leave protections in place for trans kids.


Oppose


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this guidance. Creating gender affirming schools is what makes school a safe environment for everyone.


Protect trans kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

I do not support the new trans policies set forth by the VDOE.


I Support Governor Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents, students and school staff can treat each other with dignity and respect due to each human being without the restrictions and potential punishment of current policy. A child’s life choices must be guided by their parents and not the DOE.  I fully support Governor Youngkin’s common sense changes!


fairness for trans and non-binary students

<!DOCTYPE html>

Please do not implement the Governor's proposed change to treatment of students. All students deserve to be safe and free from discrimination and harassment. Singling out trans and non-binary student is both discrimination and harassment.


Parental rights for students, Dept of Education

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents, as the first teachers of their children, have a moral obligation to ensure their well-being as they continue their education in schools.  No child should be co-erced into behavior which parents find repugnant and antithetical to their religious beliefs.  Parents know their child's needs better than anyone else.  If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and support from their parents.  School participation in gender-specific activities and events should be determined by their sex for overnight travel accommodations, lockers, etc.  Students should use bathrooms that correspond to their sex.  A single-user bathroom and facility - with appropriate signage - should be accessible for all students.


Tax paying citizen and our rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Our children have rights as well!!!  I am a tax-paying citizen of the state of Virginia and I ask that you reject any form of harassment or discrimination against the citizens of our state no matter their color, sex, or sexual preference; including nonbinary and transgender. </p>


I support this new policy and thank you Gov Youngkin!

Cris - watching the UK come back to its senses

<!DOCTYPE html>

England NHS now recognizes children experience transient phases and warns doctors not to encourage changing names and pronouns, as "social transition" is not a neutral act an could have SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS in terms of psychological functioning.  Please stop hurting our own children.  In most cases gender incongruence does not persist into adolescence for young children.  Let boys feel like girls, let girls feel like unicorns.  But don't encourage and support that.  Say, "Now let's get back to math - or spelling - or science..."  The parents can help kids work through who they are and what they are supposed to be/become.  NHS also says any services for these confused children will not be led by medical doctors - those who know the damage permanent decisions at a young age can do - and not by therapists who smile, hug, coddle etc.  We need facts, biology and practical, common sense.  Who would leave a mom or dad out of such important information of child is really that confused?  It is not job of the school.  It is me and my spouse's responsibility and privilege.  Back off progressives who think you're being kind.  You're being cruel and focusing on adult issues, politics and social activism NOT needs of children.  And dont even get me started on those family friendly drag shows.  Insane.  What has our world become?


STRONGLY OPPOSE.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>this is just enabling abusive behaviour. y’all should be ashamed of yourselves. </p>


I support Youngkin's proposed policy changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The governor's proposed changes put parents back in the role of supporting and helping their children, and they protect the majority of students who might be traumatized by the current policies. </p>


Stop the hate

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Stop the hate and open your minds.  Stop the harassment against non binary students.  They are your constituents too.  </p>


VA will be on the right track with Governor Youngkin.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly support Gov Youngkin administration. </p>


Support governor policy changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support the changes that are being made by our governor. My Lord and savior gave my husband and me two beautiful children to raise not the school system. </p>


Do not do this.


Protect Parental Rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The Governor's proposals are necessary to protect the rights of parents and students alike.  The proposal is reasonable and I support it as written.  Contrary to the extreme claims of certain groups, the new policy fully respects the rights of all students, including transgender and all LGTBQI+ individuals.  </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>


<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The new pro-parent policies help us to do what we do best for our children. </p>


Vehemently against this policy of fear and hate

<!DOCTYPE html>

The Youngkin administration has failed to produce a shred of evidence that these new policies are targeted at any existing problem in VA schools.

It's a purely partisan attempt to whip up fear and hatred in a small but very loud voter base. I reject this hatred and instead would like to see some policies from this administration that support the LGBTQ+ community.


Oppose changes to the guidance document

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The guidance document was a huge step forward in basic human rights, privacy, and civility.  The proposed changes, under the banner of parental involvement, seek actually a return to state control through cruel and rigid policy.   LGBTQ youth are placed at higher risk because of how they are targeted and stigmatized by this proposal.  </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>


Support because COMPASSION is speaking TRUTH not coddling lies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>"You can't milk a bull" no matter how much the bull self identifies as a cow. And the experimental abuse that adults are willing to do - and to keep secret/remove permission of parents - is cruel.  The compassionate choice is to deal with one on one cases and let the mom/dad be involved.  Adulthood comes soon enough and trans kids can make their own choices then.  But until then, slow down and give life time to catch up with them.  Don't create opportunities for false compassion by teacher meddling in things that should be kept in the family.</p>


I Support the Governor's Pro Parent Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Any care and counciling offered at school shall be done by parental consent only and always. Students who wish to play sports are to participate according to the sex assigned to them at birth and the same shall apply for single sex dressing areas and bathrooms. This is common sense policy.


Supporting Gov. Youngkin's newly proposed pro-parent policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parents know their children's needs better than anyone. If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and emotional support from parents. This new pro-parent policies help us to do what we do best for our children. </p>


I fully support

<!DOCTYPE html>

 I strongly agree that student rights should be upheld.  They should be able to attend a discrimination free schools.  However, I also, fully support, that until the child reaches the "age of majority - 18yo", parental consent is definitely required.

Our schools should really stick and concentrate on teaching our students, Reading, Writing, Science, Math, History (real one).  Let's leave the domestic challenges to the families to resolve them. We are lagging behind already in the academic aspects of education.  It is a very sad plight now.

We educate and welcome our kids to the school so that we can get out of this downward spiral where the school system wants to be in the business of everything but educating our children.

Definitely, parental consent required for anyone who are below 18yo.  Why would the school system/district think that they can make better decision for my child.


I oppose this new guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

Our schools should be safe places for all children. People who are trans/nonbinary are not a threat to others and should be treated with respect and dignity. I oppose this new guidance.


STRONGLY OPPOSE - protect children and parent's rights!!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

SUPPORT PRO PARENT POLICIES


Strongly Opposed to bigotry directed at children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This policy is bigotry under the guise of parents rights. There are no attempts to shield trans kids from harm and the policy places undue burden on kids who already have difficulty in schools. All kids are worthy of respect and dignity and this policy not only undermines the hard work trans kids have done in understanding who they are but provides opportunities for teachers and parents to debase trans students when it suits them. No one should be provided the tools to assail another person, especially a vulnerable student population when they are at school. Parents of trans kids have rights too, and they demand that the dignity of trans kids not be subjected to the bigotry of the Youngkin administration for political gain and societal division. </p>


Oppose Governor's Damaging Changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

Saving the lives of children is NOT a culture war.

Protecting those who cannot protect themselves is noble, not a culture war.  Culture war is code for something else … and is a highly unproductive way (i.e. political way) to frame what is otherwise an important discussion to have.  Numerous studies show a significant reduction in teen/transgender suicide for children who are accepted for who they are.  No studies have shown an increase in anything hazardous when a straight child learns about the struggles a peer might be enduring ... and by the way we’re kidding ourselves if we think the kids are not already aware.  Thus, the only identifiable danger of talking publicly about what is directly in front of us seems to be brief parental "discomfort" through an awkward conversation.  Surely, as adults, we ought to be able to navigate that.

A parent who suppresses or denies the reality of their child’s situation actually endangers that child’s life … be it knowingly or unknowingly.  If an environment is created that prevents a child from sharing their reality with their parents, a school should be able to help … just as they do with physical abuse. If the Governor truly cared, if he wants to save actual lives, he should not reverse policy direction so dramatically on this issue (in part because it will likely be reversed again in 3 years) but rather he should work across the aisle to find a compromise that is genuinely in the interests of our children’s well-being and not driven by a person political agenda … which is how it now appears.