Virginia school system

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I support Governor Younkins school policies. Stop teaching lies and total confusion to our children. Shame on the school system in Virginia. Put common decency and good moral values back in the schools. Thank you to our common sense Governor, We are proud of you!!


Oppose

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<p>I oppose the proposed guidelines.  Our schools need to protect all our children and meet them where they are. These guidelines are an overreach  of state authority. These decisions should be made by local school boards where the community voices can be heard.   </p>


Oppose - let people be free

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Let the youth be free. Why should you care about someone else's lifestyle when it doesn't impact you.


Strongly oppose

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<p>Strongly opposed to Youngkin’s policy for transgender youth. </p>


Oppose new guidance

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As a parent of 2 Virginia HS grads and 2 current students and as an educator, I strongly oppose this new guidance.  This new guidance is transphobic and a crazy step backward in supporting our students.  I pray that sanity prevails in this issue.  I support all students being called what they prefer (with or without parent support), their preferred pronouns being used, and most importantly, students should be able to use the bathrooms/locker rooms that are the most comfortable for them.


110% Support parental involvement and safe bathrooms

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Stop this weird leftist insanity. Allow our children to have safe places at school. If kids are suicidal then they need mental help… not the bathroom of their choice.


Do you really want suicides to increase

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To use children for your political and religious beliefs is disgusting.  The teen years is a time of self examination.  Allow these children to explore who they want to be.  Allow them to decide when they want to tell their parents.  Your rejection of the previous court rulings and the legislation protecting these children is not what you were elected for.  Your job is to protect all Virginia citizens not just those who share your undemocratic beliefs.  When the teen suicide rate climbs you will be responsible for their deaths and the pain their family will feel forever.


Protect trans rights

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I was someone who believed that the LGBT community was loved, but they were sinners because of their lifestyle, I don’t believe that anymore. Been a Christian for over 30 years and I believe that these kids deserve to feel safe, protected and loved.


I support

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Please allow only girls to use our bathrooms and locker rooms. Also I don’t want to compete against boys in sports games. That’s not fair to us that work hard on practicing our sports. Thanks.


Adamantly Oppose this Legislation

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This comment pertains to Youngkin's 2022 Anti-Transgender policy. I oppose this policy for many reasons, the most of which is because it puts Virginia youth in harm's Way. By mandating that teachers and school personnel must report to parents that their child needs to use different pronouns than used at birth invades the child's right to privacy and could potentially put them in harm's Way from their parents or other family members. As the governor well knows not everyone is accepting of the need to be  transgender and what it entails to make that individual feel safe in their environment. Until someone becomes 18 they are either in the care of their family or of the school system, both of which are required to keep the child safe. Our laws truly only pertain to the school system. Instead of forcing a child to be outed to their family, the school system is there to make the child feel safe and to educate that child on the history and potential future of our world. The school system is not there to put the child in danger. That danger may come in several forms. For instance, if a child is not allowed to be addressed as the gender that they believe they are or be able to use the appropriate bathroom according to their gender this can cause internal harm to their development. If a non-affirming parent is notified that their daughter wants to respond to he she pronouns that child could be put in emotional or physical harm at home. Mr Youngkin should be ashamed of himself for putting our children in danger.

There is still much more to learn about how transgender children and adults are affected and what drives them to realize that they are transgender. The goal should be to make them feel as comfortable as possible in an uncomfortable situation, instead of making that situation worse which could lead to death. I beg the governor of Virginia and the legislature to make the correct decision for our children. Thank you.


We support you and thank you

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<p>I am grateful for Governor Youngkin’s steps to protect children and to keep parents informed and involved in their children lives.  We support your strong stance for families. </p>


Everyone has a right to make the own decisions

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Allow people to made their own decisions about their lives


Oppose Government Sponsored Bullying

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<p>I strongly oppose this disgusting policy. This policy amounts to government sponsored bullying. Open minded thinking is required to acknowledge all people as equals. </p>


STRONGLY OPPOSE THIS HARMFUL POLICY

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I strongly oppose this harmful policy!

Youth, including those that are nonbinary and transgender, have a hard enough time navigating the world. It makes NO sense to make it harder on them. They already have sky high suicide rates. Do you really want to be responsible for more suicides? Get rid of this policy immediately!


Support New 2022 policies 100 %

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I highly support the new 2022 Model Policies on Privacy Dignity and Respect for all students and parents. It is absolutely needed to stop the madness taking place in our public schools. We should call these government schools instead of public schools. They do not get the right to do the parenting; this is my job to do. It is not up to the school to be in charge of my child's healthcare, mental care, spiritual care, or gender identity. The parent is the one in charge of such vital life decisions and issues.

The previous 2021 policies went against State and Federal law by taking parents authority and decision making as if the schools were the parent. No we do not need schools to be given parental status. The policies pretended to protect LGBTQ Children but these old policies where nothing more than a vise to take control of our children's and exclude parents of their fundamental right to raise and educate their child how they see appropriate. The new policy covers fair treatment to all children, not just to a small minority as before. It is a sad day and time when parents have to protect their kids from these so called public schools. Someone's gender is a private matter. Schools are harming families when they undermine parents authority. The schools need to teach academics not all these political and gender ideologies that basically create ignorant kids who cannot read, write, or do arithmetic. This is a main reason why we are failing in education compared to so many other countries now.

As the policy was prior, schools were allowing students to keep secrets from their parents and even fostering deceit that is harmful to the child and the family unit. This was absolutely unacceptable. It really is a slippery slope. These old policies allowed for our kids to be sexually groomed, physically castrated, mentally abused, boys in girls locker rooms, boys competing in girls sports, even rape in school bathrooms. Also, it has allowed school boards to make very inappropriate decisions and policies that are very harmful for parents, children, and the community. Children should not be encouraged to question their gender by teachers or the education system. Schools should never ever be involved in influencing or teaching anything related to gender identity or practices.

There is also a very large community of LBGTQ who are against these previous policies in the schools, "Gays Against Groomers." You can google it, great info. Schools that allow and hide information from parents about their children making life altering decisions concerning their sexuality should be sued. This gender ideology being forced upon our kids in schools should be criminalized. Something also needs to be done about the pornographic books they supply to our kids in the school libraries! Often times children choose LGBTQ lifestyle because they are confused, experimenting, think it's cool, or are even groomed by teachers or grown ups. Many who use hormones and go as far as sexual changes to their bodies such as breast removal often regret it.  Many who de-transition later in life regret that they mutilated themselves. They struggle with self worth, severe depression, many even commit suicide.


Protect our daughters!  Strongly support!!!!


If you stand up to pee then go the boys bathroom.

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If you are suicidal then go see a psychiatrist. But get the hell out of my daughter’s locker room.


2022 Revised Model Transgender-Issue Policies Under Youngkin Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Opposed

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<p>I strongly oppose this legislation. All people, regardless of age, have to right to be who they are. No one has the right to deny a person’s identity. </p>


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Please rescind these transphobic policies. The only thing they will do is hurt kids. Trans people know who they are - believe and respect them. These policies will cause irreparable harm. You say you want to respect parents rights. What about the parents who are supporting their trans student and asking you to call them by their name and pronouns? You say this about free speech. What about the supportive teacher who wants to call their trans student by their chosen name and pronouns? You say you want to keep kids safe. Trans kids have higher rates of suicide. Policies like these seek to erase trans students and that kind of transphobic environment will only lead to more suicides. Trans students need our love and support, not hateful policies like these. Please rescind!


Leave the Kids Alone

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<p>Another big government bill from the party of “small government” designed to harm marginalized communities. Standard GOP modus operandi to distract from their moral and intellectual bankruptcy.  </p>


OPPOSE

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I strongly oppose youngkin.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose Governor Youngkin’s transgender student policies.  Our Virginia schools should support each child academically and emotionally.  Discriminating against non-binary people is emotionally damaging to them.  On what doctrine are Youngkin’s transgender policies based?  If it’s a religious one, it has no place in public schools. </p>


Strongly oppose, Youngkin is overstepping and causing further division in Virginia

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<p>The Governor race of 2021 is over. Isn't it time to start being Governor to all of Virginia? Why all this division and conflict? This policy assumes parents are 100% always loving, always supportive and in tune with their children's needs and autonomy. What world are you living in that you assume that all homes are welcoming and nurturing to their children? Where are the  protections for children who are struggling to understand themselves? Also, how is Virginia going to retain and recruit great teachers when the environment they work in is so toxic and angry? Governor Youngkin's ambition and desire for minority rule is out of control. I'm so tired of all this stirring up of the culture wars by his administration and his desire to be a Republican star. </p>


Support Youngkin Change

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Children are the RESPONSIBILITY of their parents!

NOT the state or any government in the USA!


Strongly Oppose this Attempt to Deceive

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This is a culture war and our schools have become a battle ground for the far left woke crowd that wants to shape the hearts and minds of our children.  STOP IT!  American citizens must start saying NO to the left's constant deception and politicization.  Get prayer back in schools, stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance, teach family values and respect for authority, and proudly say one nation under God....these things are of value for schools and not a divisive disregard to parental rights.

We should have faith is our education system to raise up future generation of America citizens that are full of Godly character and virtue.

America can no afford for you to not get this right!!!


Oppose! This policy does not stand for equality

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I strongly oppose this policy! Keep the 2021 VDOE Model Policy for the treatment of transgender and non binary students!


Oppose


I oppose this policy


Transgender student policy

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As a former school nurse I have experienced visits from transgender youth. They struggle mentally due to the other students bullying them and become quite introverted and depressed. They sometimes even verbalize they feel they don’t belong in any certain place in this society and are contemplating suicide. Why make their situation more agonizing?Mental health issues are enormous to the psyche and already there are not enough mental health counselors to help them with their emotions of feeling not wanted. Due to seeing these students first hand and the pressure they endure just trying to be, I am against this bill forcing more emotional pressure on these young teens . Educational facilities are for teaching, not a battleground of society expectations . ABSOLUTELY THIS PROPOSAL SHOULD NOT BE APPROVED DUE TO MENTAL PRESSURES THAT WILL  BE FELT  BY THESE PEOPLE! Thank you for your trying to understand their emotions.


Strongly support Gov ernor Youngkinon this issue

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

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

I also strongly support the updated language that acknowledges students and teachers can’t be forced into compelled speech that violates their constitutional rights, including First Amendment and religious freedom protections.  This updated language empowers schools to make their own decisions on how to best protect kids—especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable students in a state of undress in locker rooms or overnight sleeping quarters for school field trips.

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


Trans Students Must Be Protected

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I strongly oppose the move by Gov Youngkin to violate the safety and security of trans students


Strongly oppose Governor Youngkin's proposed new policies to hurt vulnerable kids.

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Dear Governor Youngkin,

It was completely appalling but somewhat amusing when you picked on teachers.  I knew that our hardworking and outstanding Virginia teachers had the ability to join with parents to push back on your Stasi-like plans to punish teachers for teaching "divisive" concepts (like the history of civil rights).  But kids?  Really?  You want to pick on the most vulnerable people in the Commonwealth?  This is not a tiny group.  My sincere disappointment in you grows.  I take heart from learning that many of your policy proposals in this area may be quite illegal.  Obviously, this is not about policy.  It's about throwing more red meat to the Radical Right.  Shame on you, Governor Youngkin.  You have the opportunity to use power for good, and instead you are using your power to try to amass greater power for yourself (your egotistical Presidential aspirations). I am deeply ashamed that your actions pass for governing these days.  All residents of our Commonwealth deserve better than what you are attempting to accomplish.

Sincerely, Sonjia Smith


VEHEMENTLY OPPOSE!!!!

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<p>Approving this bill will lead to more minor suicides and minor human trafficking. Please don't do this to your children! </p>


I OPPOSE Gov. Youngkin's proposed model anti-transgender policy.

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I am a proud parent of four extraordinarily talented and beautiful children. My wife and I relocated to Virginia Beach, VA, from NJ/PA after getting married in 1999 to live closer to family and to rear our children in a safe, family-friendly city. This is our home. Our oldest daughter is currently attending college in Virginia, and our youngest three attend school in Virginia Beach public schools. We were encouraged by the welcoming and affirming direction our local public schools were headed until recently, thanks, in part, to 2021's model policies on the treatment of transgender (trans) and non-binary youth in schools.

Let me be clear; we are not opposing Gov. Youngkin's proposed policy because our children would be personally affected. We oppose this proposed policy because it is wrong. It represents the opposite of the welcoming and affirming environment we were proud to support for all children. Our children currently identify as cisgender and are not struggling with ill effects or prejudice. They are, however, zealous advocates of those who identify differently from them. Their friends, family, and community find comfort in their support of the entire LGBTQIA+ community. They do not fear sharing spaces with transgender children; instead, they see this anti-transgender policy as a hateful policy stoked by an irrational fear of older, ill-informed politicians and religious bigots.

This harmful policy is a solution to an imagined, hypothetical problem that will never manifest beyond that of a statistical anomaly. It is undeserving of the unprecedented attention it and other similar policies proposed (and sadly, in some cases, passed) all across the nation - ARE HARMING CHILDREN. This is a textbook example of political gaslighting at the expense of the well-being of the lives this policy is allegedly intended to protect.

This policy is wrong. It is an embarrassment to the Commonwealth of Virginia. It diminishes our progress toward a better, brighter future for all children in Virginia. We should be ashamed of this proposal and do everything we can to see that it fails.


Absolutely agree

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Sex as they were when born while at school especially in bathroom and in sports. Definitely not fair to the female of the gender group and no one to protect the young ones in the privacy of the bathroom when some “boy” decides he just wants to see if he can go in and get by with something.


Stop this nonsense

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<p>Girls go to girls bathroom and boys to boys this world need helps </p>


STRONGLY OPPOSE!!!

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<p>I strongly oppose this garbage being taught to our children!!! Get rid of it!!! </p>


Stop the insanity!!! Governor Youngkin, yes!!!


Transgender Issue

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<p>Strongly support Governor Youngkin’s stand. Senator Kaine does not represent Virginia Christians on many issues. </p>


Strongly oppose

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<p>Children need to be supported and accepted in school. This change will just encourage greater harassment or bullying of students. </p>


Strongly oppose


Oh please.  Support!!!!

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Fully support!  I have a daughter!


2022 MODEL POLICY ON TRANSGENDER STUDENTS

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I fully support Governor Younkin's Model Policy on Transgender Students.   We must promote a secure learning environment for all our children.  No specific group deserves any rights above the general population.  Bullying and discrimination against anyone must be dealt with in the most straight forward manner.  My son was a victim of bullying simply because he was a nice person and didn't fight back.  Nothing to do with gender, race or any other current areas of focus.  We parents must step up and raise our children to be strong, independent and good citizens.  This means treat everyone as you want to be treated!

I join in prayer with many others for our children in these very difficult times.

God Bless you all!


100% support for the governor.  Stop the insanity

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<p>Thankful for a governor taking a stand for parents and common sense. </p>


Let children be children

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Thank you so much for protecting children and standing up against the exploitation of children for political agendas.  This does not prevent transition but it does help the child have their parents as medical and emotional allies.  This works both ways.  If the parents want the transition then this allows for it.  Children need protection.  People that want to demand transition access are not the ones that that pick up the pieces of the child's life when they figure out what they really want.  Thank you for giving children the opportunity to be children!


Transgender Policy Changes

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Strongly disagree with this policy. The state must protect all students especially those who are vulnerable. Policies that discriminate against any group of students have no place in this Commonwealth.


No "dignity" in this policy

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If these policies were about parental rights, they would not instruct teachers to deliberately misgender and deadname their transgender and nonbinary students. (This is a sinister detail in the language of the actual legislature, and I'm shocked that it's not talked about more.)

If these policies intend to impart dignity upon all students, they would not require teachers--who often function as trusted adult figures adjacent to caregivers in young peoples' lives--to out their trans students to their parents, putting them in potentially dangerous situations.

If Governor Youngkin really believes that children should "trust their parents" with matters of gender identity and sexuality, then the comments on this forum espousing support of this policy should make it clear as to why that's untenable for so many trans youth. At best, people in this comment section are uniformed and misunderstand the lived reality of trans people. At worst, they are vehement and hateful in their language.

It is well-documented that trans people experience elevated rates of homelessness, physical and sexual violence, and suicide when compared to the general population. They are a vulnerable population that we should strive to protect and understand, rather than shun and vilify, as these policies embolden.

If parents are so concerned about their child's gender identity, they should redirect that energy towards practicing tolerance and compassion, and facilitating a space where their children feel validated in coming forward with their experiences, rather than obsessing over the bathroom bogeyman. If your child does not feel safe coming out to you, chances are that you have no one to blame but yourselves--and that they're correct in their assumptions.

Also, stranger danger is a myth. Again, if you're so concerned about sexual assault, turn your gaze towards your friends, family members, and your child's romantic partners. Statistically speaking, victims are most likely to be assaulted by known parties.

And if your child comes to you saying that they've been assaulted? Do them a favor and believe them.


I support this well-reasoned, Constitutional-based policy

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<p>I appreciate the Youngkin Administration carefully reviewing the previous policy before writing this change which is squarely based on Constitutional-protections for students and their families on both sides of the issue.  Gov. Youngkin has addressed the potential for bullying to protect transgender students while recognizing the timeless tradition of parents and/or guardians' role to lovingly direct the upbringing of their children and/or those under their care.  Thank you, Governor Youngkin.   Time will bear you out that this is the fair and just policy the Commonwealth needs. </p>


You can’t and won’t erase trans and non-binary youth!

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You already know these policies won’t work. They break state laws and so much more. You’re pathetic the lot of you.


Oppose Younkin's plan that will/has already begun to harm the mental health of my clients

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As a WPATH member and therapist who has been working to support children for the past 20 years I oppose this proposed roll back of school protections.  It is in direct conflict with guidance provided by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health found here https://www.wpath.org/soc8/chapters.  Please look to the foremost experts in the field for guidance on how to treat this most vulnerable population rather than politicians dog whistling for votes.


Stop recycling stereotypes! Attacking now trans youth another marginalized group.

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Opponents of LGBTQ+ equality have admitted that their bathroom safety argument was contrived and not a real concern based on habits of actual predators. It is important to remember that anti-LGBTQ+ hate groups used similar “predator” stereotypes against gay people as recently as the nineties and early two-thousands. These ill-informed misbeliefs about gay people led to discriminatory laws such as Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. During the Civil Rights era, segregationists used stereotypes about Black men being sexually predatory in order to oppose integration. These false arguments and stereotypes have simply been recycled to attack another marginalized group, transgender people.


Strong support our Governor

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As a teacher, parent and immigrant from communist county, I strongly support our governor Youngkin! I know how important to avoid government brainwashing our kids. Let our kids to be kids, let parents know what happen in the school. For the people here leaving negative comments to our governor, I would like you know, to keep your freedom and not make our America to become China or North Korea, wake up, support our governor.


You will have blood of children on your hands

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To whom it may concern,

I'm sure you've done your due diligence and spoken with transgender children about the impact this guidance will have on them, as well as researched statistics on the subject, so I'm just going to speak from the heart. As a transgender man, I find this proposal appalling. You all know exactly what will happen. This proposal will lead directly to child abuse, child homelessness, and child suicide. You have done your due diligence and know this, so why go through with it?

Why intentionally turn a child's home life hostile? Why open thousands of Virginian kids up to these horrible outcomes? If this guidance gets approved, many of these children will lose the parental support they need go go on to become productive members of society. They will then need to rely on the state for assistance, all because you couldn't let kids act in their own best interests with the knowledge they have about their families. This government over reach and harms everyone, not just the kids you're targeting.

Please do the right thing and keep our trans kids safe.

Thanks for reading,

Erik M. Black


I strongly oppose Youngkin's proposed policy targeting transgender youth.

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Public education is a place where students are welcomed and valued . Every student should find a place at school that allows them dignity, control over their life and learning . It is not the role of the public education staff , like me, to carry out discriminatory behaviors aimed at the students we are meant to serve .

We , like the Governor, are public servants . That means serving the needs of all to the best of our ability . Never will I ever demean a student by using a pronoun that does not meet their self definition .


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>I am opposed to this measure. Children face enough difficulties at school, and trans kids more than other kids face higher levels of depression and suicide. They must be protected at all costs </p>


Bus driver

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Parents need to educate their children before school.  Boys pee standing up, girls sit.  Keep this crap out of the schools.  Believe in GOD and you will see the light of this nonsense.  We have to save our country from this leftist rhetoric.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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This policy is completely ridiculous and fear-driven, and will result in the deaths of trans children.


Strongly Oppose - schools have no business edjucating the sex or gender of their students

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This change claims to support all children, but it does quite the opposite. It is out of the scope of the school to determine the sex or gender of students. Segregation on the basis of a culturally fabricated binary sex and gender is only going to ostracize children that do not fit into neat little boxes.

All children deserve the same education and the same facilities. Control and special treatment for trans and non-binary children will fail to treat them with respect, and will only give them lifelong psychological scars.

All children deserve free and equal treatment. Continue using the 2021 Model Policies to ensure trans and non-binary children can reach their full potential, and are first class citizens.


I oppose this reactionary and devastating policy

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This is fear-driven and horrifying. This puts trans children in harm's way for literally no reason.


STRONGLY OPPOSE THIS HORRIBLE POLICY

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This policy HARMS CHILDREN


Concerned Father OPPOSED to this proposal

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These proposed model policies are unpopular, unnecessary, and un-American.

The overwhelming majority of Virginians and Americans oppose transphopic policies.

These proposed model policies are contrary to state law.

These proposed model policies will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids.

I'm sickened by the callous disregard for the wellbeing of yet another small minority of Virginians and American citizens.  Let all people be free to be who they are and live.  The consequences of this cruel attack on transgender and nonbinary Virginians is literally contrary to the unalienable and natural rights of life, liberty, happiness, and safety.


No to transgenders

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I stand by you Gov. Youngkin. Great job to stop the nonsense that shouldn't have been to start with. Thank you sir.


Strongly Oppose!

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

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


Strongly support!


I support Gov. Youngkins policy on transgenders and parents rights.

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I heartily support Gov. Youngkins' new policies on transgenders and parental rights. Things have gone way too far-parents need to retain their rights over their children and have the ability to protect them against influences that corrupt their innocence-this is NOT what education is for.  So much time is being spent on politics with children in the middle of all of it and being victimized with no power to resist these things that it is a shameful thing to watch and a total disgrace.  The family is being attacked as always by Marxists-this is what they always do-the family is the basis and support and foundation for a civilized society and that is disappearing in front of our eyes.  Bravo to the Gov-


Proposed 2022 Guidance Documents supports all students' rights

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I strongly support the 2022 Proposed Guidance document because it makes sense and is fair to all students, teachers and staff. As a parent, I can not imagine not being involved with my child's name, nickname and pronoun as well as being informed about any counseling my child receives. If a child is struggling in school, the parents should always be informed on the issues.

In addition, it is inappropriate for a person born as a male to participate in any girls' sports. Male and females are different and until we do away with all gender oriented sports, male-born students have in inherent advantage over true females in all sports requiring strength, endurance and speed. In addition, male-born students should NOT be allowed in female locker rooms and bathrooms. All schools should make an effort to have unisex bathrooms available for transgender students.

In short, I fully support the 2022 Proposed Guidance document and feel that not approving the document leads to discrimination against true females and places undue burdens on teachers and staff when students can decide on the fly what name and pronoun they prefer.


OPPOSE


Strongly support!!

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I strongly support this policy, it brings back parental rights.


Please remember you are the governor for EVERYONE

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<p>I strongly oppose this bill. It is hurtful to these students and makes school a place that trans students will no longer feel safe in. Regardless of whether you believe in the validity of trans youth, you are the governor for EVERYONE. Not just republicans, not just those who voted for you, but for every Virginian, regardless of beliefs. Please re-consider. Does the way students are addressed or what pronouns they use really impact anyone but the student, themself? They are not hurting anyone and they just want to feel accepted. As humans, that’s all any of us want, is to feel accepted. To our core, we are not so different. Please do not make life unnecessarily hard for these students. Please choose kindness. Someone’s life might depend on it. </p>


Youngkin and the Republican Party should be ashamed of themselves

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<p style="text-align: justify;">Attacking already vulnerable children is evil.  </p>


Strongly Agree

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<p>Children deserve privacy. </p>


Strongly Agree

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<p>We strongly agree, our children deserve privacy. Loudoun county schools should have learned a lesson by now. </p>


Can't stop thinking of trans who raped TWO girls in Fairfax Schools

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That alone was horrible - and everyone tried to tag the dad as mental for freaking out at the school board meeting. Who wouldn't be mental if a boy in a skirt was permitted to go to the girls' restroom and then raped their daughter?  Did that boy's parents know about his preferences at school or did the school keep it a secret, to "protect" his rights??  Imagine, prioritizing his rights and keeping secrets from parents.  That isn't protecting children's rights.  Children have the right to feel safe at school, not be raped or assaulted.  To be against Youngkin's bill is to be for every child that will - and does - twist and manipulate and cause greater harm to other children around them.  And then question a parent's sanity.


Support the rights of parents , keep up the good work with education reform

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I support the rights of parents. Applaud the governor for his reform of northam's terrible policies for education.


Strongly opposed to this hateful policy

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It's hard to believe that in 2022 the Governor of the Commonwealth is trying to implement policies that will lead to bullying, stigmatizing and other negative impacts for students throughout the state. I am strongly opposed to this proposed policy.


Support Gov. Youngkin’s Policy for Trans students

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<p>Gov. Yougkin’s policy for trans students is right. It involves the parents rather than others making life changing decisions for these students without their parent’s knowledge. </p>


Do NOT take away my rights

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I wanted to be a dad, I get to be a dad and all that includes.  I have the right as a father and as a man to know everything about my minor, underage child.  No one will love my kids like I do.  Granted there will be parents who don't agree with, don't support a trans kid.  Let that be THAT FAMILYS journey, NOT mine.  NOT ours.  Don't take from me and many other parents their rights - their ability to love, raise children to become people of integrity.  It's a job I eagerly signed up for.  Don't bind my hands because a few situations might come up.  Deal with those situations as they arise.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>The policies that came from the  2020 legislation on this matter resulted from the thorough and rigorous work of a group who sought the input of parents and stakeholders. Now, Governor Youngkin has made a unilateral decision without listening to the people of Virginia — clearly politics, as opposed to democratic, sound government.  </p>


Hate and hurt only coming from the opposing side

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My child tried to simply disagree and was called a hater and taunted on the playground for disagreement.  She was kind and respectful in disagreement, and as a result was mocked.  The opposing side wants to destroy those who disagree with them, even if they are 10 years old.  We've gone from a society that fought for tolerance to one that screams for endorsement and celebration.  Shame on you parents teaching hate and claiming to care for ALL the children.  Never will I ever give up my right to protect my children and any others in your path.


Support Governor Youngkin!!!

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<p>Thank you so much Governor Youngkin!  Protect our kids!  </p>


YES, why I voted for Youngkin!

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My side weeps, cries over the possible damage happening to our children and their future.  The opposing side is so hateful, so busy screaming at parents who love their children and don't want these decisions made for them or these pressures put on their children.  Anyone who disagrees with them is treated with contempt - just read some of the things these caring people say: we should be sterilized so we can't have children?!  We should have our children taken away from us b/c we don't support confusion?!  How horrible: and you think I want to let you make decisions for my children and to step aside so you can be in charge.  You horrible, horrible people.  There will be a reckoning for such hate.  And I hope your children are protected from the hate and hurt that oozes from you.


Transgender Model Policies and the Rights of ALL

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Parents should always be kept informed of their children's behavior in schools.  When our children go to school, we are not turning over their moral beliefs to be molded by others that may have ideas/agendas that do not coincide with our beliefs.  Keep politics out of the educational system.  Let kids be kids and stop pushing this "agenda" that children want to change their sex.  Their brains aren't even fully developed yet.  This whole idea of using the correct pronouns has made the school system a FARCE.  Call a child by their given name and get on with your day.  Do your job of teaching - reading, writing and arithmetic and stop pushing and indoctrinating your beliefs to the vulnerable, leave those at home.


As a teacher, I have an insider view

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I am a public school teacher in VA. I am embroiled in this battle where I see things happening in the schools that no one would believe. Since I fear for my job, I won't put identifying information here. (That should tell you all something.) But, IS a great need to protect parental rights with children. If there is a child who is in true danger and experiencing abuse at home, it is the school's job to report to social services. Students who are not in abusive homes should be in no danger if parents are alerted to a child's confusion. The problem is that the extreme proponents of the sexualization of children ultimately consider any parental guidance on this issue to be abuse, because the parents are interfering with the indoctrination process.

It is NOT the school's job to help elementary students to transition to another gender. It is also not the school's job to tell other children that their friend is not a girl anymore or a boy anymore. This is confusing for children at the very least.

All children can be protected without their personal privacy violated. There is personal privacy for children who expect to go the bathroom without people of the opposite biological gender seeing their private parts. Parents should have rights – not just the parents of a child with gender confusion, but all parents should know if their child is going into a bathroom with someone of the opposite sex. As educators, we are not allowed to do many things without parental permission. Why is this in a special category? Those people who say that there is no other way to deal with this other than the schools sneaking and hiding, have not really tried to use common sense or logic to solve this problem.

When is it ever okay to tell a child that something of a sexual nature is "our little secret" that we don't need to tell "your parents?" What ever happened to "see something, say something" in the schools?

Those commenters who are using the scare tactics, calling people who want to secure parental rights and protect basic privacy terrible names should be disregarded. Of course, they are allowed to have free speech. But, legislation should be based on facts not feelings and truth, not trumped up hysteria.

I know that books of an extremely sexual nature are in the public schools. I know that it is illegal to expose children to pornography. People who oppose sexually charged books in schools are not proposing "book banning" but they are proposing banning of pornography, as well as protecting students from adults who want to promote an ideology through grooming children with sexual literature.

Parents should have rights. Reason and child safety should not be thrown out the window for the new wave of political ammunition.

A concerned teacher and parent


Strongly oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose. </p>


Strongly opposed

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Very strongly opposed to governor youngkin


Pro teacher, pro kid by being PRO PARENT!

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We CAN be for all of them.  Putting the burden of this information on schools/teachers is wrong.  Children need their parents' support and that means making slow, intentional decisions.  Children can't vote, can't drink alcohol, can't drive until age 16 and yet everyone "FOR" the children think this transgender push is ok.  Some parents are so nuts about everything vegan and organic, all-natural and yet think it's ok to fill young, developing children with chemicals and hormones, reversing any natural growth or progression.


Strongly Support Governor Youngkin

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

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

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

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

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


In opposition to the proposed changes

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As a Virginia resident, I am deeply concerned by Governor Youngkin and the Department of Education's attempts to change the existing guidelines. It must be the priority of the state to protect all students, regardless of gender identity. These policies will inevitably lead to harm to transgender students, and constitute an abuse of governmental power. I urge the Department to reconsider these changes.


Former transgenders being silenced

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Some of today's adults were confused children a decade ago.  They are speaking out against these surgeries AND BEING SILENCED!!!  Think about it: the very people today's "advocates" insist they are "for" are being told to shut up, they're being called haters.  It begins with keeping secrets from parents, until the child has such external reinforcement/support the parents are desperate to not lose their child.  Statements like "You can have a dead son or a live daughter," implying suicide is the only alternative to full-on endorsement and support of transgender transitions.  The fact that one side is so silencing the other side is the most concerning: there is no dialog about it.  I have full compassion for the children who authentically struggle with this issue.  But as a culture we are creating and manufacturing these conditions.  The statistics are out of control and have been growing for the past 5-10 yrs.


OPPOSE - how on brand for YoungQin (GQP)

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With nothing else of value to offer, our so-called governor has decided to target trans and LGBTQ+ youth. All of you nimrods in the Qult thanking the soulless POS YoungQin for “returning your parental rights” should be subjected to forced sterilization so that we can finally break the cycle of stupid among your small but idiotically loud minority of Neanderthal bigots. If they don’t already, your kids are going to hate you, and you will deserve it. They will separate from you, no longer able to excuse your idiocy, leaving you to live a long lonely life and then to die alone with no support.


Oppose the 2022 Model Policies

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<p>I strongly oppose the 2022 Model Polices and the elimination of the existing policies protecting LGBTQ+ rights.  I strongly agree with the Alexandria City mayor and city council that "The proposed policies issued September 16 remove protections for transgender and non-binary students in Virginia’s public schools, stigmatizing them and undermining their dignity, and the policies put vulnerable students’ lives at risk." This attempt by the Youngkin administration is one more example of radical Republican politicians creating a wedge issue that appeals to their base at the expense of vulnerable groups, including trans and bi students. </p>


Parental rights

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I support parental rights for parents. Girl sports for girls, boy sports for boys. Thank you Gov. Youngkin for advocating for the parents and children.


Support 2022

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<p>Really need the Parents involved and protect their rights. </p>


Support parental rights

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<p>There should never be a time where parents are excluded from the care for and education of their children (except in proven cases of parental abuse and/or neglect). Parents are the number one authority on their children and schools should be fully in support of parental involvement at all levels. In turn, parents should educate their children in proper treatment of all individuals and teach them compassion and kindness toward others. Again schools should partner in this message.  Schools should also recognize that there will be students who are not comfortable sharing a restroom or locker room with students of a different biological sex for many reasons. Students should not be forced to tolerate an environment that makes them uncomfortable or fearful. At no other time would these feelings be tolerated or expected. And they should not be in this instance. Students who are truly struggling with gender dysphoria should involve their parents and the school as resources to help them during this time. The school can help to counsel the parents as well if the situation is negative. In short, parental rights and involvement come first. </p>


Thank You Governor Younkin

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<p>Yes to supporting kids BY KEEPING THEIR PARENTS INFORMED.  The people opposed to this are deceiving themselves and endangering the young and highly influential children who are our future.  Secrets kept from parents will only HARM children. </p>


Strongly Oppose

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As a long time Virginia educator who supports all students and their right to feel safe and respected at school,  I strongly oppose the proposed policy and want VDOE to reject it. I am embarrassed to teach in a state that would even suggest such a thing right now.


Yes to the new guidelines.  Empower parents to care for their children.

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Thank you for updating these policies to restore protections for basic parental rights and ensuring that parents are no longer cut out of the process—especially when it concerns how gender and sexuality issues are handled with our kids at school. I support the new policies’ removal of language that encouraged school officials to follow procedures to essentially deceive parents when their children are making potentially life-altering decisions regarding their gender identity in a school setting. The original policy had language that created a wedge between parents and their child, at a time when they need to have more communication—and I support the new update that removes this barrier. I support the updated language that acknowledges students and teachers can’t be forced into compelled speech that violates their constitutional rights, including First Amendment and religious freedom protections. I support the updated language that empowers schools to make their own decisions on how to best protect kids—especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable students in a state of undress in locker rooms or overnight sleeping quarters for school field trips. Middle and High School years can be very challenging, so I’m glad we already have comprehensive bullying policies to ensure a safe environment, while still respecting the rights of all students. That’s why it’s important schools have the freedom—as this updated policy allows— to address bathroom/privacy issues on a case by case basis with parents—and not through a one-size-fits-all pressure tool that treats all districts/communities the same. Please finalize these updated 2022 model policies as written without removing any of the key protections to restore parental involvement in the process and protect children’s privacy and safety rights.


Trans policy

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Many of these kids are fragile and need all the support they can get. I strongly oppose our governor's policy.


Remember when education was about the kids?

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<p>Public education is one of the most important parts of being a 1st-world nation. It's one of the reasons the United States was one of the strongest countries in the world. Our education system needs to be about helping students learn. If students are full of self-doubt, insecurity, fear of being bullied, feeling like they have to hide themselves from everyone around them - they aren't going to be able to learn. When children are having trouble in school, it affects entire classes/schools/communities. It doesn't hurt anyone, ANYONE, to call someone they instead of she, or Laura instead of Larry. Boys are not dressing like girls in order to sneak into the girl's room, or vice versa. That fear is stupid on its face. Making a child act like something they don't think they are does nothing, NOTHING, for you. It only wastes everybody's time and make a child feel bad. Why would our state government want to force our schools to do this? It's insane. Why are we letting these uncaring, ill-informed people lead decisions about our children? </p>


Support

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<p>This new model policy on the treatment of transgender students will be a positive change in our community. Many students that I know feel threatened by this policy, but that is because many have not read it and understand what it actually changes. As a student myself, I have heard people say that this policy makes it "illegal to be gay" and "makes trans kids commit suicide". This policy will end up positively impacting students across the state. Most cases of transgender students have struggled with their mental health before they started struggling with their gender identity. The question that they most ask themselves is "what is wrong with me?". As a Christian, I believe that there is nothing wrong within them. When they don't find something wrong with the rest of their identity they turn to their gender. They might not necessarily want to be the other gender, they just don't want to be who they are now. Parents are the most qualified in helping their child make these decisions. This policy is just giving rights to the parents. Counselors and teachers should not be able to keep what's going on with a child a secret from their parents. The parents have every right to know what is going on with such a big decision in their child's lives. What name the child is referred to and what pronouns being used should always be told to the parents so that they can either confirm or deny the action being taken. Within this policy, the school still has the ability to assist and support the parent and student in this important decision, but the parent should be the primary decision maker. </p>


Oppose the DOE proposal.  Not all children have a safe home environment

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I am the mother of 4 children who were educated in the Fairfax County Schools.  I am heartened to see the many comments of people who are sensitive to the damage these proposed changes would cause for LGBTQ+ students and school staff.

Parents, you have the right to raise your child with your values, and to share your beliefs with them. Today.  Now.  Imagine if your child is LGBTQ+ and would be impacted by this change.  If your child has not told you this yet, it may be because they don’t feel safe doing so. They may fear being berated, hurt or shunned by you or others in the family.

No kid “decides” to be this way, and no school experience will cause a kid to be LGBTQ+.  These kids need to be able to feel safe at school, so that they are able to learn effectively.

Parents who support this, honestly reflect on whether or not your child would feel comfortable coming out to you.  Would you support and love them? Would you blame the schools, and invalidate your child? Suicide rates will increase if kids have no safe space. Our children are precious.  I oppose the proposed changes.

When a child talks with a therapist, their conversations are private unless the child may hurt themselves or others. Not all kids have a therapist to talk with, and this makes a safe space even more important for them.  Children have a right to privacy about some things.


This policy goes against science, decency, separation of church and state.

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This policy is so offensive in so many ways. It goes against the current consensus of medical science. It injects partisianship and religious doctrine into public schools. It violates a founding principle of our country, the separation of church and state. It's also just plain callous and cruel. `Anyone who thinks their child won't "be tempted" into being trans or gay if they never find out about it is fooling themselves. Your child will still be gay or trans, but you won't have a relationship with them, because they'll either have successfully committed suicide, or they won't be speaking to you because you can't accept who they are. Stop trying to keep your children inside your little ignorance bubble! Let them be who they are, not who you want to force them to be. I promise, you will both be happier for it.


Protect Transgender kids with 'neutral professionals'   STOP harming victums.

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Transgender medical issues need in-depth understanding informed by compassionate professionals. I learned about this rarely understood matter from documentaries on the discovery channel. it is very difficult to comprehend as we did not have any such conflicts growing up. No! Our brain suffered greatly from all the social conflicts about male-female diversities. and for many of us -- our parents were trapped in great conflicts on very deep levels, without any coping skills. This makes transgender persons the most vulnerable to violent attacks by highly-conflicted persons themselves. kids and adults can be cruel* Although I do not have any involvement with schools since graduating from UCLA, it is only practical that the intervention counselors be independent of all this strife. Parents are concerned and even panicked because sinister forces are exploiting them with this medical issue to destroy progressive-minded thinking. The "Righteous Right" power brokers are setting fires and enjoying the burns! we are well-experienced with Virginia's  ultra-right power brokers who are political arsonists, yes,,,however August 2017 when neo-nazis marched at UVA with torches ... the same folks were then, and now- continue to be silent. They have never called them (white supremists) out, nor President Trump --which launched the manifestos for the violent overthrow of the present Republic. We got your game! you are so pathetic in your moral deficencies--- that you must prey on children and young adults with serious medical issues. Therefore, public education leaders responsibly  need to engage the services of  "neutral-minded" professionals to support trans kids and their parents. Most citizens want all children and their school environment protected.


Parents' Rights ARE BEST for the children

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<p>Parents need to know and be informed.  Please don't intentionally keep secrets from the ones who most love their children.  Let them work through what they need to at home, in light and in truth.  Hiding </p>


Thank you Gov Youngkin

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<p>We all know Virginia students need more time spent in the classroom on Literacy, Math, and Science. Thank you for respecting parents and for recognizing what is truly important in education. </p>


I strongly oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose governor Glen Youngkins move to out trans students to their parents. </p>


Support

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<p>Thank you, Governor Youngkin! </p>


I strongly oppose this violation of children's basic human rights

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<p>I strongly oppose Youngkin's "Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Public Schools." It is a gross violation of students' human rights to autonomy and liberty. A shameful attempt to target vulnerable children who deserve support from their schools. </p>


Communists and Marxists "Be Gone!"

Roman Catholic Dad of multiple VA-Public-Schooled Adults

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An educator's task should be to build up, not to tear down, confuse, obfuscate, or to contramand parental values. Public schools do not own children entrusted to them! Indoctrination is a prerogative of parenting, not of teachers' unions nor of politicians! Amen.


100% Support! Protect our kids!

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<p>Fully support the Governor!  </p>


Kids have rights too.

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Parents have certain rights over their children to keep them safe. This does not keep children safe. It denies their basic humanhood.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>STRONGLY OPPOSE. </p>


Completely and absolutely OPPOSE

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<p>I support students. I support teachers. I support human rights. I support trans students. I support mental health. I oppose this policy. I am against violence. I am against emotional abuse. I oppose this policy. </p>


Strongly oppose this discriminatory, harmful policy

I strongly oppose the governor's new model policy, which, if enacted, would be extremely harmful to children, create additional burdens on families of transgender students, add additional unreasonable requirements for school staff, and require teachers to interfere in families' personal business. I am a parent of school aged children and have loved ones and friends with transgender children. These children, like all children, deserve to be affirmed, valued, and welcomed, especially in their school community.  Instead, the governor's proposed model policy creates a hostile school environment for an already vulnerable population. Children's lives are literally at stake, all to score political points with Younkin's base. Since when has it been against a parent's rights for a child to be called by their preferred name? Will students who prefer a nickname require legal documentation and phone calls home for a teacher to be allowed to honor that child's preference? Let teachers get to the business of teaching and creating a welcoming community where all (and truly all) students are affirmed.

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I strongly oppose the governor's new model policy, which, if enacted, would be extremely harmful to children, create additional burdens on families of transgender students, add additional unreasonable requirements for school staff, and require teachers to interfere in families' personal business. I am a parent of school aged children and have loved ones and friends with transgender children. These children, like all children, deserve to be affirmed, valued, and welcomed, especially in their school community.  Instead, the governor's proposed model policy creates a hostile school environment for an already vulnerable population. Children's lives are literally<img src="data:image/gif;base64,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"/> at stake, all to score political points with Younkin's base. Since when has it been against a parent's rights for a child to be called by their preferred name? Will students who prefer a nickname require legal documentation and phone calls home for a teacher to be allowed to honor that child's preference? Let teachers get to the business of teaching and creating a welcoming community where all (and truly all) students are affirmed.


kill yourself

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trans people are real people. we are humans. we are no different from other people. we deserve the same rights as everyone else. we deserve privacy. we deserve to have a safe place outside of our homes. we deserve to be ourself without fearing our household finding out. we deserve to live in peace. we deserve to be categorised with the gender we are/identify as. we deserve to be safe. we deserve a life.

stop taking away from us. one’s genitals should not decide one’s entire life. we are real people. we have real feelings. we should be respected- we need to be respected.

i am now risking my life because at the beginning of this school year i decided to socially transition at school, while still being closeted in my home.  if word gets out to my parents, i am dead.

this is not a matter of safety for trans students. this is not how parents should be “more involved” with their children. thousands of lives are now at stake, because of one policy.

we are real people too. we deserve to be happy. we deserve to be safe. we deserve to live. let us have this. let us be free.


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Thank you for working to restore protections for basic parental rights in the public education of their children and to ensure that parents are no longer excluded from essential conversations, especially concerning the matter of how gender and sexuality issues are handled at our schools. The 2021 policy contained language that created a wedge between parents and their children at a time when enhanced communication between all parties (parents, children, and teachers) should have been strongly encouraged.

I appreciate that the revised guidance now makes it clear that no policy, guidance, or other written material issued by the school may encourage or instruct teachers to conceal key information about a student from the student's parent, including information about gender. Please finalize these updated 2022 model policies as written without removing any of the key protections for parental rights so that healthy parental involvement in the education of their children may be restored.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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<p>This is going to put children at risk. The child still deserves privacy and more often than not it can put the trans child in danger. This is not something that will help the child and the protection of all children, including trans children should be considered and prioritized. </p>


Transgender policy

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I fully support Governor Youngkin’s changes to the transgender policy.  It is not only appropriate but necessary to place decisions regarding students’ personal lives back in the hands of their parents, who best know and love them, and are legally  and financially responsible for them. Our children are not a possession of the schools. Students whose situations need special consideration to be sure their rights are protected, can be addressed on a case by case basis. ALL students have rights that need to be protected.

 I believe the governor’s policy allows for mutual consideration and respect that can lead to unity and allow schools to do what they were instituted to do: Educate; NOT socially engineer!


Against Youngkin Policy - I support Trans & Non-Binary Humans

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<p>I reject this policy as it will cause tremendous harm to an already vulnerable population - trans and other non-gender conforming youth. Requiring educators to out these children places these youth in a potentially dangerous position with their family. As we can see from this board, transphobia is real and some of these hateful commenters likely have children and seem to think that it is ok to harm children if they do not conform to your religious beliefs. The statistics are clear that our LGBTQIA youth are at greater risk for suicide, depression, and bullying. The rollback of these protections sends the message that the privacy rights of these children do not matter as much as placating homophobic adults. It is the JOB of the parent to create a relationship with their child where their child will come to them when they are in need. If a child is not ready to come to the parent, that is a private family issue and needs to be handled as such. Children and teenagers are human beings with the right to some privacy, especially around an issue where punitive parents might cause genuine harm. I am an educator and a parent of a trans child. Even as an accepting parent, my child’s journey has been hard and I am so glad that they have experienced the support of caring adults who they could be open with. I am fortunate that my child has been open, even when it was hard for them, because it shows that I have built a trusting and safe relationship with them. THIS is how we keep our kids safe - not by banning, outing, and controlling our kids. Please reconsider your policy and put children at the center. </p>


Oppose - this will harm the vulnerable

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As a parent and a public school educator, I have personally seen children explore different gender identities at school before they were ready to discuss it with their parents. This is a vulnerable time for children and we must have the confidence that they will discuss it with the adults they trust most when they are ready. This policy will only cause harm.

Why does anyone care what bathroom a child choses to use? It is embarrassing enough to not identify with your birth gender. Let all transgender students use private bathrooms or the bathroom they feel most comfortable in. We lock ourselves in stalls. Why are we concerned with the genitalia within the stall? This policy will only cause harm.


I thought Gov. Youngkin was opposed to mandates?

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I strongly oppose the proposed Public School Model Policies and its blatant discrimination against transgender children and teens. Gov. Youngkin wouldn't mandate masks in schools to protect vulnerable, immunocompromised children, but is eager to mandate which bathroom a child/teen uses--WHICH HARMS NO ONE. Stop throwing around the phrase "parental rights" and let children be who they are.


2022 Revised Model Transgender-Issue Policies under Youngkin's Education Department

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

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

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

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

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

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


100% SUPPORT

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At last -- common sense protections of (and for) both parents and children.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you.


Oppose

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Virginians who are not yet voters should have the ability to freely speak and identify themselves at school free of legislative intrusion and interference. Just as schools should have the ability to provide a free and appropriate education, a parent should have the ability to educate their child at home if they want to. Children need to be in school to learn and to navigate social and educational disagreements without imposing upon others. If one wants to affirm their identity, it does not require another educator or student anything other than respect and dignity.
Legislators need to stop regulating people the way they regulate things. We are not things. Legislation will not stop homosexuality. Legislation won’t  stop racism. Legislation will not stop bigotry. Legislation will not stop beliefs. Legislation is meant to make living with our neighbors safe while remaining free to live peacefully.
Stop regulating bodies and minds.


This bill is transohobic

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This bill in action would create a hostile and

uncomfortable environment for young transgender people in school. Already my trans son faces a terrible amount of difficulty to be respected at school and this negatively affects his mental health. While my wife and I love and accept our son but we know that many parents in our position would not and requiring faculty to put teenagers in potentially abusive situations by outing them is dangerous. I strongly suggest you reconsider putting this bill in action for the safety of kids like my son.


I support more parental involvement

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


I Support the Proposed 2022 Model Policies

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I am in support of the proposed 2022 Model Policies.

They provide clear, fair, and reasonable guidance.

Some specifics:

I support the terminology that defines sex and transgender in the context of these policies.

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

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

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


Keep all children safe

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<p>Boys and girls should go to restroom according to birth gender </p>


SHAMEFUL! Strongly opposed.

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Absolutely shameful. Vile, hurtful, mean. How does this help anyone? How is anyone better off for this? Only hurt comes from this. Republicans should be ashamed of how far from their biblical teachings they live their lives, how corrupted by power and hate they are.

 'em all. The world would be better off without conservatives. Things are getting better for everyone when we progress into the future with love in our hearts.  their regressive, shameful transphobia, sexism, and racism. I hope it hurts every time they pee.


Fair and Appropriate

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I find these 2022 Model Policies to be entirely appropriate and a welcome clarification of the responsibilities of public schools regarding transgender students.  I support their adoption.  They are not discriminatory, rather they emphasize that every student should be treated with dignity and respect and be free of discrimination harassment and bullying.  They make clear that parents should be involved in a school’s decision whether to treat a student as transgender.  This is consistent with the requirement of parental approval in many other aspects of a student’s participation which have serious implications for a student’s health and welfare, and our recognition that parent’s bear the fundamental responsibility for their children’s care.  The issues of which restrooms to use and participation on athletic teams must be made in consideration of all the students effected (including the majority who are not transgender), and that there are practical limits to what can be provided.  Differentiation based on the anatomical differences of the two biological sexes are already accommodated for.  The addition of separate individual restrooms is a reasonable compromise for the sake of the relatively small number who for whatever reason are not willing to use the restroom designated for their sex.


Jesus said What you do to the least of us you do to me.   Help Trans children

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We believe in freedom in this country. That means freedom to be yourself.  Live up to our ideals and do not pass this law.


SUPPORT

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<p>I've read the policy in it's entirety.  Anyone saying this is about harming children and putting them at risk has obviously not read it.  It is very respectful of ALL students, including those in the LGBTQ community.  All law, from the US Constitution, the VA Constitution, and down to relevant case law, stands in support of the very commonsense guidance given in this document.  </p>


100% Support! Thank you, Governor!!!

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<p>Thank you Governor Youngkin! </p>


Parental Rights

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I support parental rights as being of utmost importance


Prevent harm to transgender youth

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As a parent of a non-binary student in Virginia public schools, I deeply disagree with the new Model policy proposed by Gov. Youngkin’s administration. I have seen firsthand the challenge my child has gone through regarding their gender identity, even with loving and supportive parents, and generally accepting teachers and fellow students. I can only imagine how much turmoil and trauma students will face if the new model policies go into effect. It is an unfortunate reality that many transgender or gender diverse students do not have loving supportive parents or guardians. Under the new proposed policies, these students without supportive guardians at home, will also lose the affirming support they may have previously requested from teachers or counselors at school.

We all want policies in our schools that do more good than harm. Cisgender students and their parents are not currently being harmed by the existing model policies from the previous administration. No one was claiming that cisgender students were being encouraged to act as if they were transgender, and there were no claims of teachers preaching that all students should be transgender. Under the new policies however, transgender students are at a high risk of being harmed. Even though the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends those who identify as transgender and gender diverse have access to comprehensive, gender-affirming and developmentally appropriate care, the proposed model policies prioritize preferences of conservative students and teachers over the well-being and psychological safety of transgender and gender diverse students.

The current VA administration is likely already aware of the standing precedent of the Grimm vs. Glouster County VA School Board case. Because of this standing legal precedent ruling in favor of transgender students’ rights, Youngkin’s proposed model policy will almost certainly be ruled unlawful when challenged in court. Given this situation, reasonable voters can assume that Youngkin is proposing these model policies, not to make any actual change, but to appear as “model conservative” to his most conservative voters, regardless of the harm it will cause to transgender children.

Virginia parents and voters such as myself will not quietly accept the new proposed model policies. I will call on those who I know, family, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances to stand up for fair treatment of all Virginia students including my child, and vote against Youngkin and his party at every future opportunity.


No bathroom & sports issues! Support!

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Support the Governor!!!!


concerning treatment of transgender students

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I strongly support the proposal recommended by Governor Younkin

which recognizes rights of parents to nurture the needs of their children.

pat brooks


These kids need interventions not encouragement to pursue a delusion, mutilation, and drugs

We don’t celebrate anorexia They’re just trying to get their body corrected

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Get these kids some help not surgery and hormone therapy. Yes they’re kids. How about some guidance instead of a parade to celebrate pursuing fantasy and a life of misery.


Trans Children’s Privacy is a Human Right

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Trans rights are human rights. Trans kids are human kids. They deserve love and acceptance for being who they are, and the fact that so many parents do not offer those makes me incredibly sad. My parents have made choices for me, yes, but they have not tried to force my identity into something that I don’t like. That would not be love, and that would not be acceptance. Parents do not have authority over their child’s identity. You, Governor Youngkin, do not have authority over my identity, despite your awful attempts to gain it. I’d also like to bring up the fact that misgendering and misnaming trans kids increases rates of suicide, shown by the Journal of Adolescent Heath at https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(18)30085-5/fulltext#intraref0010a

If you’re so keen to protect life, protect these children’s lives or consider yourself the Commonwealth of Virginia’s biggest hypocrite.

Please also keep in mind the idea of re-election. The first election I will be eligible to vote in will be the 2024 presidential election, which means I’ll be there when your term ends in 2025, too. So will the hundreds, maybe thousands of students who walked out last week in protest of your policies. We will all be there, ready to cast our votes against you when you need them the most. It’s not the parents’ support you need, Mr. Youngkin. It’s us. It’s the next generation who will be holding the ballots when you ask for our support. If you go ahead on this bill, you’ll get none of it.


Support Parents

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As a parent, I firmly support a parents' right to know what is going on with their children. To say that only parents teach children wrong things or harm children is ignorant of what has been going on in the news. Teachers and parents should both be held to the same level of accountability. Teachers should not be able to do, teach and say what ever they want, with no input from parents. Parents are not the enemy of the state.

Educators should focus on education and get out of our homes.

If they idea is to respect all peoples with various points of views why not have educators teach the fundamentals to learning? Math, Science, Language, History. Promote thinking, not telling us what to think, but how to think.

I support strongly this legislation because I support parents right to choose. Do you?


Why target the vulnerable and marginalized?

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Transgender and non-binary young people are not hurting anyone in any way, and do not need to be punished by adding further stress and nonacceptance to their lives.  Their chances of comitting suicide are so high already -- shouldn't we be worried about doing whatever we can to keep them alive and hopeful?   The health and safety of young people should always be more important than any possible discomfort of the adults who don't understand them.  This Guidance Document chooses cruelty over compassion, and selfishness over equity.

There are so many pressing challenges facing our state and education system.  It certainly appears that deciding to focus on this issue is only an effort to curry political favor, not to truly act as servants of the citizenry.


Continue the Model Policies for Transgender Students in K12 Schools

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<p>I am bothered by the governor's choice to remove protections from transgender students in our schools, suggesting that these policies do harm to "all" students and couching the removal as a parents' right issue. Ideally, parents would be the people who could best see and guide their children, but that is not always the case, unfortunately. I have seen children in my neighborhood and in my college struggle under repressive, even psychologically abusive parents. Severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and difficulty thriving our all symptoms. Young people today are much less likely to retain binary identities; they challenge strict gender roles, and they lead the way in showing us how to treat everyone with dignity and respect. Educators should be encouraged to and curious about how to support all students in thriving; educating themselves about LGBTQ+ students is critical to this thriving. </p>


Wholeheartedly OPPOSE

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This policy is transphobic and will hurt kids!


I support getting back to safe schools, fair sports, safe bathrooms, reality, and logic

Stop imposing unhealthy policies for the few and ignoring the majority

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<p>This bizarreness needs to stop yes to new model policy </p>


Md here- suicidal children require mental health therapy not a society w/o boundaries.

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<p>Let’s stop this narrative that we need to prevent suicides by letting kids do as they wish without boundaries. Society has boundaries. That is a fact. Mental health therapy is required for suicidal children. </p>


Trans kids deserve our support

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I've been an educator in Virginia for over 30 years and one thing I have learned is that kids who are marginalized suffer personally and academically. If we want to build a better world, start by supporting all the kids who will shape our future, ot just the ones who conform to a proscribed world view.


New policy for transgender students

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The proposed model is not based on medical science, and it puts transgender at risk emotionally and physically both at home and school.  Sexuality is critical to our intimate self-awareness, and no government has the right to violate that privacy.   No one, even heterosexuals, choose to have their sexual lives publicized and it should not be forced on transgender children and young adults who are already so vulnerable.


Policies on Public School's Handling of Transgender/LBGT+ Students

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Having had 2 children attend and graduate through the public-school systems and having been married to a public-school teacher with 34 years of service at retirement, I can say that the partnership between parents of children and their teachers must be based on mutual trust and transparency. I believe Governor Youngkin's proposed policies do just that. School officials must not be allowed to keep secrets regarding gender self-identifications by students from their parents. I am also firmly opposed to the imposition of curbs on free speech imposed by school systems on teachers and staffs, specifically in the mandating of the use of other than male and female pronouns. As regards participation in sports, it is patently unfair to women's athletics to allow any transgender male to participate in women's athletic events of any kind. I oppose any cross use of locker room and rest room facilities by any person of the opposite biological sex despite whatever gender affiliation they may adhere to.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment.


Strongly oppose the new model policies

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<p>I strongly oppose new model policies put forth by Gov. Youngkin. They will harm transgender students and hinder the teaching and learning process in schools. Let's be kind, not cruel. Let's support these vulnerable youth and the educators who help them. </p>


Strongly oppose the new model policies


I strongly oppose the proposed legislation

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"Practices such as compelling others to use preferred pronouns is premised on the
ideological belief that gender is a matter of personal choice or subjective experience, not
sex. Many Virginians reject this belief." (2022 proposed policy)

Where is the evidence of this? There is no citation, nor any specific statistics that support this claim. I could say that many Virginians support this belief, and that would be just as believable a statement as the one made in the document.

"Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution: Guarantees persons
within the jurisdiction of any U.S. state equal protection of the laws, including
protecting students and other individuals from invidious discrimination." (2022 proposed policy)

Students must be protected from discrimination, including discrimination from their parental figures. It is the duty of a school and its staff to identify such issues as child abuse or neglect. As stated in the 2021 document, "for many transgender students, their daily emotional and psychosocial wellness are dependent on receiving support and recognition for their gender identity" (see the 2021 document for evidence of this). If a student is not recognized at school as their preferred gender, it will contribute not only to a decline in their mental wellbeing but also their school performance (Kosciw, Clark, Truong, & Zongrone, 2020). It is the responsibility of a school to ensure that students are prepared and empowered as best they can be to learn. By deferring to the wishes of parents as opposed to the students, these students are at a significantly higher risk of being at a disadvantage compared to other students.

Just as it is the responsibility of a school and its staff to go against an abusive or neglectful parent's wishes for a child's safety and well-being, it is also the responsibility of a school and its staff to protect a student's right to express their gender in whatever way that ensures their ability to learn and succeed in school.

A parent's right to educate their child how they see fit is not affected by the removal of the 2021 policy statement. A parent can teach their child that transitioning socially and/or medically is not in line with their ideological beliefs. If the child chooses to transition anyways, it is essential that the child's freedoms of expression and individual pursuit of happiness not be compromised by a school. A school must not stand in the way of a parent's right to educate and raise their child, and a school must not stand in the way of a student's right to express themselves however they wish, so long as it is not illegal or disruptive to other students. If a parent takes issue with their child having a transgender classmate, the parent is well within their rights to enroll the child into another school or homeschool the child. All of this is perfectly legal and allowed under the 2021 legislation.

The 2021 document also was contributed to by a variety of people, some of whom use they/them pronouns. These adults (who do not identify with the sexes assigned to them at birth) were once students and can therefore speak with authority on the best actions a school can take to protect current students in similar situations as the adults once were in. The 2022 document concerns me extensively, as I could not find evidence of any contributing persons who do not identify with their birth sex. While this is not in itself evidence of discrimination, the gender-exclusive language of "he or she, his or hers" and the lack of information and evidence presented regarding the wellbeing of transgender youths has convinced me that this policy is intended to satisfy potentially abusive parents and allow them to continue abusing children without any protections for those children.

The continuation of past policies might comfort those who experienced them as children. However, changing social and cultural norms have dated these previous systems and proved through the mistreatment of LGBTQ+ individuals that these policies are no longer the best option. As a result, I strongly oppose this policy change and I sincerely hope that the previous legislation will remain intact.


"Remain Firm in the Truth"

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I am the mother of five adult sons.  My family chose homeschooling, in part, because of the trend of public schools keeping parents uninformed about how sexuality and gender issues are handled by school faculty and staff.

The Most Reverend Michael Burbidge, Bishop of the Arlington, Virginia Diocese has set a good example of how transgender issues should be handled at school.  He starts with the truth that each person is created male or female at conception and that one cannot choose one's gender.

He asserts that gender dysphoria can cause significant distress and that when such distress is manifested at school, "Parents must always, and immediately, be involved with any discussions with a child about such sensitive topics."

I do support the updated language of the new commonsense policy!