trans students rights

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Hi I'm eighteen and I'm in high school. I believe that students should have a right to identify as whatever gender they want to, but if they want to take meds or shots for THEN it should be up to the parents. Some peoples parents are homophobic and it could ruin a child's relationship with their parents if they knew about how the child identifies. If it doesn't affect the child's well being then why not just call them a different name or pronoun, they're just words for christ's sake. I believe that we should just get over all this homophobic crap because it's hurting our kids, a lot of them are already insecure about their sexual identity so why are we making their insecurities worse? I know that we're trying to do the best for our kids, but this is wrong. I vote that they should choose for themselves, again unless it involves meds or shots for things like testosterone, because that can be dangerous it should be up to the parents. Thank you for hearing my input I appreciate it.


Oppose - trans kids deserve safe learning

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<p>I strongly oppose this policy. Trans and LQBTQ students deserve the opportunity to learn in a safe and inclusive environment. It does not harm other students to allows trans kids to use bathrooms of their choice and to use the pronouns that they choose. Not all parents are supportive and there is a reason some trans kids aren’t out at home. Forcing schools to out trans kids is incredibly dangerous and will have monstrous consequences. This policy is shameful and not based on evidence. </p>


Strongly Oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose Governor Youngkin’s proposal to limit the rights of transgender and nonbinary youth in Virginia public schools. </p>


Strongly support Bill

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Parents should be involved and informed. Parents not schools are most

aware and capable of supporting their students. Long after schools are out of a childs life

parents will still be there to support their child. They must be included in decisions!


Thanks for supporting parents.

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<p>Support parents as being in charge of raising their children.  The current policy omits parents role in their children’s upbringing. </p>


Stop attacking our children, Gov. Youngkin

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It takes a man and a party truly sick in their souls to prop themselves up by attacking the most vulnerable of children. Who did the Germans go after in the 1930s and 1940s? Gay, trans, etc. Just more of the same moralistic sheen on a fascist movement. Maybe it works politically, maybe it doesn't, scaring parents, but in any case it's deeply evil. America will again defeat fascism, and those who pushed it in America will go down on the wrong side of the history books, that will be written, that will be in our libraries, that will be taught and read. You're either with the fascist or against them. Pretty clear in this case which side Gov. Youngkin and his extremists are on. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eq9yst4W-6c.


Strongly oppose


Opposed

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This will not help the safety or mental health of Virginia's transgendered students. This reduces the American plurality of cultures and beliefs, running contrary to the melting pot that we are. Do not implement these harmful changes.

Please let the transgendered students know that they have more friends than the know, and if they have a family that would rather abscond from their duties as parents than accept their children for who they are, please know there are avenues to turn to other than self-harm, such as the Powers Safe Place in Front Royal.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose Youngkin's draft model, which is rooted in transphobia. As a clergy person in Virginia, I see how policies like this impact kids and cause direct harm. Our educators are incredible and want to see kids thrive. This proposed policy does the opposite of that. </p>


Protect are Children

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I was discouraged to see Gov Youngkin announcing the changes against trans children. Many were conned by this man into believing he would be a moderate governor but only voting for a person because of the R is now having repercussions. Taking away rights from our children is not what the majority of Virginians want. I'm an old hippie grandmother but I support all children having the right to be who they know inside. DO NOT PASS THIS LAW!


Strongly oppose -- protect trans kids

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Protect the rights of trans students! They must be treated with respect in school in order to have a safe and productive learning environment. They have a right to go by their preferred pronouns. The governor is bullying them for his own political gain, when they actually need to be supported and protected.


Oppose!!

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This is a very bad policy that is not in line with the concerns of Virginians. Do not move forward with this


Lots of words to cover up discrimination

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<p>While what is written sounds "good" on paper, it is essentially still allowing one perspective or set of personal beliefs to dominate and restricts other perspectives and beliefs. Who says that there is only the sex assigned at birth and that only those pronouns or names should be used? If you respond with God, the bible, or anything like that, you are discriminating based on religious grounds. If you say biology, then you are not reading current literature on this issue. These policies will lead to discrimination, further bullying (by teachers no less, who can refuse to use preferred pronouns or names), and psychological and emotional harm to the children affected. I do not support this guidance and hope that legislators and educators refuse to support it, as well. </p>


Counselor

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The "MODEL" policy is a wolf in sheep's clothing. As a parent I understand that we have the right to decide how our children are reared. However we do not have the right to strip another human being (even if they're under 18 and came from us) of their humanity, and of their dignity. Requiring schools, specifically COUNSELORS to inform parents of ongoing gender related issues goes against a counselor's ethical standards to keep private matters private. Please do NOT target people who are struggling to find out who they are!!!!!


Thank you for protecting our children!

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<p>If there is one social issue that must be stopped and regulated it is the gender transitioning of children. This trans-mania is being perpetuated on social media at a rapid pace and with schools echoing this nonsense out children don’t stand a chance. Thank you for standing for mental health and the advocacy of children and parents. </p>


Strongly OPPOSE New Model Policies

Lorraine Dresch, Waynesboro Public Schools

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I am a representative of the Waynesboro High School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, a group of educators dedicated to making the school a safe and welcoming environment for students of historically-marginalized backgrounds.

I would like to raise serious concerns regarding these model policies.

At WHS, there are approximately 90 transgender and gender-expansive students. These policies would directly negatively impact their daily lives by denying them the ability to safely express themselves and be affirmed for who they are. These students are deserving of protection and support.

The suicide rate for transgender youth is already extremely high. 52% of trans youth seriously considered suicide, while 21% attempted suicide in the past year. This problem is preventable, but the new model policies would exacerbate the issue by denying students life-saving social transitions at school. The Trevor Project explains that “transgender and nonbinary youth who reported having pronouns respected by all or most people in their lives attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected.” This statistic shows that honoring students’ chosen names and pronouns is a crucial form of suicide prevention.

Moreover, as much as we would like to imagine that all parents are supportive of their children no matter their gender identity, educators see that this is unfortunately not the case: Transgender youth are at a higher risk of experiencing homelessness, in part because they are often kicked out of their homes or abandoned by caregivers due to their trans identity. The Trevor Project states that “38% of transgender girls/women, 39% of transgender boys/men, and 35% of nonbinary youth reported housing instability and homelessness.” By requiring educators such as teachers and guidance counselors to automatically inform parents of their child’s transgender identity if the student comes out at school, the state puts young people in a position where they must either suppress their identities entirely or risk the roof over their heads.

In summary, these new policies would in reality deny students the privacy, dignity, and respect they deserve. Schools have an important role in supporting the mental health and safety of their transgender and nonbinary students. As an educator dedicated to creating learning environments where everyone can thrive, I urge you to reject or at the very least substantially revise these model policies to protect trans youth.

Sincerely,

Lorraine Dresch, Waynesboro High School Teacher

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2020/?section=Introduction

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Trevor-Project-Homelessness-Report.pdf


Parents right matter

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It is past time to give parents full control. The schools need to stick to teaching reading and math. These are the skills that need to be improved. Let the activism and formation of beliefs to the parents who raise the kids.


Strongly oppose this policy

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This policy will lead to more trans kids committing suicide. Are you okay with having the blood of children on your hands, Governor Youngkin?


Strongly Support Parental Rights AND Mental Illness

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Thank you Governor Youngkin for protecting our children by giving their parents the right to make decisions for them. This bill is not about taking rights of transgender children and adolescents away, but simply allowing parents to be a part of their journey rather than keeping them at a distance. I fully support any child or adolescent who is struggling with mental illness, such as gender disphoria, as should any good teacher but a teacher is just that, a teacher. An individual placed in a child's life to teach him or her reading, math, science and social studies not family values. Thank you so much for putting this policy in writing - reminding our voters that it is the job of a parent to instill the values in their children, not a government paid employee.


Less govt oversight in schools please

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<p>There is too much specificity on pronouns in this model guideline. I would like to see more information on grammar, and how the administration plans to support teachers & students in improving their reading comprehension. Gerunds were really hard to learn in middle school, I don’t think we need to place so much effort into pronouns when there are harder concepts to learn. Sentence fragments are hard too, maybe include some more discussion on those. If the administration is not providing schools with the tools to educate our students, then they shouldn’t be implementing such strict protocols on pronouns and names. </p>


Kids Belong To Parents

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My children are NOT the property of the state, schools, or teachers. I fully support Gov. Glenn Youngkin's actions to protect parental rights, and am disgusted that it was even necessary.


Just no

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I vehemently oppose this policy. Kids are not political pawns. This blatantly biased policy is a distraction from what a terrible job our governor is doing. This policy  is meant to pit parents, teachers, and students against each other - similar to the teacher complaint line. While the teacher tip line disheartened teachers and led to resignations, this policy would harm the mental health of kids and put teachers in an impossible situation. Youngkin’s attempts to destroy Virginia’s public education system are transparent. The VA DOE should be independent from political tides and support all learners.


100% support !

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<p>100% support. Keep this insanity out of our schools. </p>


Absolutely Monstrous

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This is an absolutely monstrous policy that will lead to the deaths of so many children. You people claim to be pro life and anti-government over reach, and yet you want to enact policies that will lead to direct harm to children. They're already struggling enough as it is, but your twisted ideals lead you to want to hurt anyone who you deem different from yourself. You don't want to try to understand what these kids are going through, you just want to protect your shallow world view and tamp down anything that doesn't fit within it, regardless of who it hurts or how many kids will commit suicide over their treatment. It's disgusting and despicable. It makes me ashamed that I live in a state, a country, and a world that is so afraid of the other, they would rather out these kids and get rid of them than help them. Everyone who agrees with this policy or is trying to enact it should take a step back and realize what they're doing. Every kid that this hurts, every life that is taken, the blood is on your hands. I can't even come up with the words for how vile policies like this are.


abhorrent policies for political gain that will kill children

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<p>according to all good medical research in this field allowing children to explore their gender identity under the supervision of medical & pyschiatric professionals is associated with a enormous drop in suicidality and positive effect on their mental health & career prospects. at the same time policies like this drum up anti LGBT rhetoric and gives tacit approval to those seeking to dehumanize and harm children who are simply trying to be themselves. these changes will lead to the suffering and deaths of many virginian  children and I urge the governor and his team to withdraw these changes. </p>


Protect trans children!

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I'm apalled at the so called adults who are so afraid of allowing people to be different from themselves- trans children deserve to be respected and protected. Non-binary students deserve the respect of their stated pronouns.

The proposed policy does harm and is a form of sanctioned bullying that is actually harmful and potentially deadly.

Public schools must be safe for every student.

I deeply oppose these changes.

Don't do this.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>This proposed policy is pure evil. Shame on our Governor. </p>


This stunt is nothing more than political theatre

Ben Phelps, Spotsylvania County Parent of Two

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Judging by the grammar and spelling of some of the parents here supporting Youngkin’s regressive policies shows just how badly we need real educators making decisions for our children’s education. If you want to be bigoted, homeschool your kids or put them in a private school. Public education should be for all students and should make all students feel welcome and included. The hysteria of trans kids is just another distraction of the Republicans because they don’t actually know how to govern. Trans kids exist whether you want to admit it or not and these teachers and principals are not wasting their few minutes of free time to indoctrinate or groom your kids into gender affirming surgery (looking at you, Bob Good). Just leave these poor kids alone. Either support them or just ignore them. There is no need to pile on the already huge amount of stress these children are experiencing. Have some compassion.


Are you out of your mind?

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Let kids be kids Glenn! When are we getting new sidewalks in Great Falls? I can’t walk my kid a mile down the road to the elementary school and you’re worried about nicknames in school? Get your priorities straight!


Support the new policies

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Elementary school girls should not be in fear of going to the bathroom and finding boys in the bathroom.  This is happening and it must stop.  Please implement these new policies and protect all children!


I oppose the new policy on Trans kids

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The revisions to the policies protecting trans kids will do much more harm than good. These are vulnerable kids and the revisions will likely increase the bullying and harassement that causes trans kids to have such high suicide rates.


Strongly Oppose

David Gorman, Professional School Counselor

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I'm a middle school counselor in Chesterfield County Public Schools and the facilitator of our Gay Straight Alliance club. I strongly oppose the governor's new "2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools."

The 2021 policies were exceptional at supporting transgender students, and I've seen the positive effect on my transgender students when school staff are accepting and affirming of their gender identity and chosen name and pronouns. In fact, some of my transgender students are flourishing this year with the support we're providing them.

The governor's new 2022 policy will harm transgender students, plain and simple. Many transgender students are not ready to come out to their parents, and the 2022 policy forces them to do so--potentially putting themselves in danger at home--if they want to be exist as their authentic selves at school. The 2022 policy will also put transgender students at higher risk of suicide.

Transgender students are already a population with high risk factors. The 2022 policy is not based on evidence or research. In fact, the evidence and research runs contrary to the 2022 policy:

56% of transgender youth reported a previous suicide attempt and 86% reported suicidality. School belongingness mitigates these risks and is a significant predictor variable for reducing suicidal ideation and attempts among transgender youth (Austin et al., 2020).

Transgender and nonbinary youth whose schools prevent them from using the restrooms/locker rooms that best matched their gender identities were significantly more likely to be sexually assaulted, 26% for transgender males and 149% for transgender females (Murchison et al., 2019).

28% of transgender youth whose pronouns are not affirmed attempted suicide in the past year. In fact, when pronouns are respected, transgender youth attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected (Trevor Project, 2020).

Transgender adolescents experience significantly disproportionate levels of childhood abuse compared to cisgender adolescents and experience greater levels of homelessness as a result of being kicked out or abused (Thoma, 2021).

The number one priority of Virginia public schools is to keep our students safe. In order to keep our transgender student safe, we cannot enact the 2022 policy. It's as simple as that.

Thank you for taking the time to read my message and take my opinion--based on my professional training and practice--into consideration.


Taking Steps Back

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Students should have a welcoming and safe space in their schools. If this legislation were to pass, that welcoming/safe space would no longer be available for many students. Our children already face so many challenges throughout their life, they should not have to hide themselves in order to maintain a modicum of safety. The mental health of trans, non-binary, and gender fluid students is at risk. If their possibly only source of support is cut off through this legislation, it can lead to catastrophic results for our children and their families. Students have shared they are afraid of what will happen if this legislation goes into effect. They are afraid for their safety. Many students do not have supportive families to help them through difficult times and depend on the safety net of a trusted school employee. Please don't take that away from them.


No Race, Gender, Sexual discussions in school.  Teachers teach Math, Science and Reading/Writing.

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<p>Teachers are not Parents.  No gender discussions.  My kid should not know your's or their schoolmates sexual preferences.  No Pronouns required.  No sexual content in books in library or class teaching.  No Race identification.  Everyone is treated the same.  No discussion of Oppressor or Oppressed.  Parents should have review of what is taught if they prefer since we are paying for it.  </p>


What a piece of politically-motivated tripe

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Dear Virginia Department of Education ,

I just read your 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia Public Schools. I must say, it seems to be misnamed. Nowhere in this document is the privacy, dignity, or respect of the student addressed. There is a lot of information on what rights parents have. There is a lot of “peers shouldn’t bully peers” and “this is what cyberbullying looks like”, but nowhere is there any consideration given to the student’s rights, dignity, or access to personal development/exploration.

Your introduction says, “As a part of that work, educators strive to meet the individual needs of all students entrusted to their care, and teachers work to create educational environments where all students thrive. The Virginia Department of Education... recognizes that each child is a unique individual with distinctive abilities and characteristics that should be valued and respected. All students have the right to attend school in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying. The Department supports efforts to protect and encourage respect for all students. Thus, we have a collective responsibility to address topics such as the treatment of transgender students with necessary compassion and respect for all students.” It should be followed up with “but we’re here to destroy this in the name of the parents.”

Nowhere is there anything that addresses what to do when these things come into conflict. Nowhere is there any guidelines of what to do for conflict-resolution. Everything says, “the parent’s word goes,” which is stupid and naive. According to you, parents are gods and goddesses, since this document does not seriously consider the needs or mental health of the child. It doesn’t look into the issues transgender youth deal with. Students don’t usually thrive when their parents are controlling them at a distance.

Parents aren’t mental health professionals, and shouldn’t be assumed to be such. Rarely, especially in middle and high school, do parents understand their kids. The teachers and counselors should be able to judge whether a situation is safe to raise the issue. It shouldn't be a blanket requirement.

Few parents can talk freely with their kids about such sensitive sex/gender topics; mostly because they’ve made their opinions quite clear, and kids don’t want to deal with it, risk it, or disappoint their parents. Or because the parents don’t like talking about it, or can’t really discuss it short of throwing around religious slogans or trite phrases. Don’t assume the ideal situation is the reality. It rarely is.

Also of note, is the noticeable lack of “transgender”-specific school-related content or anything that might show that you looked at the other side of the argument. Very few of the documents you quote address the specific concerns and problems faced by transgender youth. None of the Resources even address transgender specifically or exclusively. It’s almost like you don’t want to look at what you should be doing to help this community.

None of your arguments talk about what happens when parents hurt their children with their intractability. None of your own explanation of the rules even mentions transgender youth problems. You don't address issues with suicide and depression. Since this involves that group of people, shouldn’t some text about it be included? You don’t even recognize a student as “transgender” unless their parent agrees with it. Which is a pretty big problem, since if parents agree with their children’s alignment or lack of it, there are not issues.

Which “9,000+ comments submitted to the Department during the public comment period in 2021” did you look at? How many were from ticked off parents and religious leaders? Were any from the children themselves or their supporters?

This whole thing is to justify a horrible rule that eliminates a vital support system, and undercuts the whole purpose of counseling. Therapists and counselors are not required to tell parents everything they talked about with the student/patient. Teachers often have that role too.

Parents aren’t always the best determiners of what their child actually needs. They often are blinded by what they want their child to be, how they expect children of a certain sex to act, or how their own upbringing might make them think.

If the 14th Amendment and parents’ rights are so overarching, why do we have CPS or any child-protection laws? Could it be that parents aren’t the perfect arbiters of morals that this document implies? If students are to be treated as individuals, so should parents. Making it a requirement to let parents know everything ignores the fact that the student (the person the school should be focused on, whom it is the school’s duty to partly raise) might not be able to talk to their parents about things.

So, you’re saying, teachers can’t protect kids from their abusive parents. They can’t be confidantes or supporters that can help them without letting their parents know. They can’t use their best judgment in dealing with issues. Really?

Why should a trained professional’s professional ethics and experience be superseded by a parent’s preference? I’d say most of this document frames this as a “religious rights” issue, which it isn’t. If parents’ religious beliefs can decide what a student learns in a public school (which affects a lot of non-believers), when will we stop teaching earth science, evolution, and the sun-centric solar system because it might tick off the creationists? We’re already removing real history because some parents object. We’ve killed most informative sex education because some parents disapprove.

If the parents object so vehemently, maybe they should home-school or send them to religious schools. That is what the “parents right to determine education” really means. When did we stop listening to people who actually studied education?

The minute you contact “social services” for suicidal trans or gay kids with abusive parents, guess what? The parents are informed, which is what the kids don’t need. According to you, the parents should be able to raise their kids how they want… so guess what the social services is likely to do? Defer to the parents.

There needs to be a middle ground, based on circumstances. There needs to be some way a kid can get help from teachers or counselors privately. Because sometimes that help guides them to understand their parents and see what they might be missing. Making teachers etc. essentially informants removes that guidance, making the children suspicious, paranoid, and unwilling to ask for help.

So, according to this guidance, teachers and school administrators can bully trans-kids. Peers can't. None of your high-sounding language about protecting kids from bullying takes into account that demanding they are called certain pronouns is bullying. It’s insisting they conform in a way that damages them psychologically. Same thing with dress codes.

Even you admit that legally, gender dysphoria is a “disability”. That means accommodations must be made, and calling them a different pronoun or name is hardly “excessive” or “an undue burden”. That is the yardstick you’re supposed to use.

Or are you trying to use the ableist argument that since they are “disabled” they can be controlled even more, that their needs should be ignored if their caregiver decides it? Which isn’t what that decision means, and directly contradicts Code of Virginia, § 2.2-3900, et seq., which you also quote.

Honestly, the only thing I liked in this whole document was the suggested policy that required single-person bathrooms be available in reasonable numbers.

I think Grimm v Glouchester and Williams v. Kincaid are the only times you mention transgender people in any sort of supportive way. Everything else defends parents and the rights of a teacher to offend and abuse the students.

“Parent engagement in school” doesn’t mean they have veto power, and it doesn’t mean the students should be reported on. It means that when a parent forms a partnership with the teachers, when they take a positive active role in their kid’s learning, the kids react well. It shouldn’t mean they can get books banned arbitrarily. It doesn’t mean they are the captain of the ship either.

“Parental engagement” also depends on the parent. Some parents are extremely toxic, not only to their kids, but the school, teachers, and community. But they should be given free rein to form policy and instruction? Few of the parents that want this ever engage with schools in a partnership way. They regard schools and teachers with suspicion.

Nowhere are the wants and needs of the student even addressed. Nowhere is there any expectation of parents listening to or interacting with teachers in any way that isn’t dictatorial. Beyond a “partnership goal". Where they officially have the right to “review and comment” on things like books and instruction, you give them the power to stop it all together. Laws meant to prevent the release of information, you take as proof that parents can do whatever they want.

According to you they have total “control” over their kids. Which is pretty r/insaneparents actually.

The statutes you quote about privacy say parents have the right to “review” and “alter” official records. In other words, no one else should be able to do that. That has nothing to do with what goes on in a classroom, how teachers/peers etc. address students. It has nothing to do with how the child refers to themselves. So why is this used to justify a parent having to officially agree to what their child is called by a teacher?

A lot of the laws you quote are meant to prevent/do one thing, but you claim they do another. You expand their reach beyond their purview or twist what they mean to say. The mere fact that you do this proves that this is a document of ideology not real policy. And if schools or state institutions try to push ideology, that’s bad, right? Especially if it’s harmful to the students’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

How do you not see how contradictory these three suggested policy items are? Or is this that ridiculous “you’re only transgender if your parents say you are” thing?:

“1. Every effort should be made to ensure that a transgender student wishing to change his or her means of address is treated with respect, compassion, and dignity in the classroom and school environment.

2. [School Division] personnel shall refer to each student using only (i) the name that appears in the student’s official record, or (ii) if the student prefers, using any nickname commonly associated with the name that appears in the student’s official record.

3. [School Division] personnel shall refer to each student using only the pronouns appropriate to the sex appearing in the student’s official record — that is, male pronouns for a student whose legal sex is male, and female pronouns for a student whose legal sex is female.

How is that showing respect, compassion or dignity to the student?

So, basically, what your document is saying is “Schools shall respect all students” and “Schools shall serve all students” but not really. Because when what the student’s needs conflicts with the parent’s desires, “Schools shall defer to parents to make the best decisions with respect to their children”. No debate, no exceptions. Parents rule. Which is stupid and dangerous, as well as extremely contradictory with what you say elsewhere.

You pay lip-service to caring about the children, but you don’t allow them to be themselves. You frame this as being reasonable, but it’s not. You offer excuse after excuse on why you are “obligated” to kowtow to parents at the expense of their children. You don’t address the needs of the students with gender dysphoria, or how “sex-based sports participants are restricted according to biological sex” goes against Williams v. Kincaid.

This is VA DOE mostly washing their hands of a complicated situation, claiming they can't interfere. It is stupid, cruel and short-sighted. But what else should I expect from a department that thinks “divisive issues” like slavery, negative history, gender issues, and sexual orientation should be banned from schools. When is science going to be considered “divisive?” Certain facts and theories certainly contradict religious doctrine. Will it fall to “religious freedom” too?

If you can’t teach the facts, what’s the point of education? If you can’t support the mental health of students who should not be discriminated against according to the law, how can you claim to “care about all students”? How can you help a student thrive by insisting that he or she be called names and pronouns that give them dysphoria and make them suicidal? How can you claim to be non-discriminatory when your teachers, administrators, etc. model discriminatory, disrespectful, and bullying behavior in front of their students? What does that tell the other students about what is “acceptable behavior” to those with gender dysphoria? And why can’t people given the task of running a Department of Education not see the problem here?

I know this is long, but you gave me a lot to work with. In brief, this policy stinks and does only half of what it claims to be written to do. And none of that helps the student, just the parents.

And just remember, these students are going to be voters, some of them really soon.

-- L. E. P.

Boston, Virginia 22713


Parents, not governmental institutions, raise children

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Political agenda has no place in the school. Parents have the responsibility and therefore the autonomy to choose what they see fit for their children to learn. Ethical and religious decisions are the parents to make. School administrators and teachers are meant to teach children the mechanics they need to understand the world and come to their own conclusions as the come of age. I am very glad that my child is past the school age and  not imposed upon by those with an agenda that bullies children into a single mindset that divides them against others. Diversity applies to all and the Constitution acknowledges that. The issues of slavery and gender are being discussed as if people today have caused the problem. When Fred Rogers was on television, he taught Diversity as a strength and not a dividing issue. Parents had the choice to turn off the television or change the channel  if they disagreed with his message. Parents should have the same power with the schools. Government has no place in these issues; public schools are failing because they are administered by people who are not true educators. True educators build up children for success and do not leverage them as pawns to push a political agenda. Anyone, regardless of political affiliation, who teaches children need to assess the appropriateness of topics for the developmental age of the children, with parental approval, and in areas where it is appropriate to bring a topic into the classroom, children should be given the spectrum of thought on the topic and work with their parents to decide their opinion on that topic. Teach diversity as a strength and teach children that they all have different traits that can be used for good if they work together. Teach children to appreciate differences of traits and opinions, and to use them to build a better world.


In favor of the changes to protect all children

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<p>I have heard that in our schools it has become normal for boys to go into girls bathrooms.  A teacher told me that she found a boy and girl in a bathroom getting ready to have sex.  High schoolers have become afraid to use the bathroom.  </p>


Trans in Virginia Schools

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<p>I strongly disagree with Trans people, child or adult  being in the same bathroom of a child.  The schools in Virginia does not have the right or authority to force normal children to be subject to such others.  Teachers are in school to teach, not to indoctrinated normal children to be gay or transgender.   Governor Youngkin is trying to guarantee all Virginia students are safe in the bathrooms and from indoctrination.  </p>


favor changes

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These changes support parental rights while also protecting all children.  Thank you!


Biology & Equitable Privacy First! Strongly Support!

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<p>No child should have to find out that a person who has been changing out for gym class next to them for weeks is actually someone of the opposite sex. This is not right nor appropriate. Stop forcing the majority to placate the extremism of the left. You cannot biologically change your sex, 99.9% of the cells in your body will exhibit a biological male or female no matter how much someone tries to mutilate their bodies. This is a mental health disorder, let parents decide how to handle these circumstances in the privacy of their homes & not in a place of public education. Allow other children to compete in sports fairly, change comfortably, use the restrooms of their sex for safety! Thank you Youngkin! Finally some return to sanity! </p>


This policy will kill children

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This policy will get children beaten to death across the state. Trans children are at extraordinary risk of abuse and harm in unsupported home environments, and requiring teachers to contact abusive parents will only lead to violence. The governor knows this, and the cruelty is the point. Every single person behind this policy should be ashamed of themselves and if they had a shred of humanity they would resign.


Opposed

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This policy will be harmful to the most vulnerable children. It's naive to think all parents will be accepting of their children if they're outed.


Support 100%


This is evil

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This is evil, and you are an objectively evil person for proposing it.


Protect trans kids

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I strongly oppose this fascist idea


OPPOSE

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<p>Transgender students DESERVE to be treated with dignity and respect, while also maintaining their right to privacy, while attending public school. Don't act like this is "helping" anyone! </p>


Transgender and education policy changes

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I am extremely worried how educational policy is shifting In Virginia.

Schools are supposed to provide safe space for educating all students.
Changing policy for transgender students puts them at risk. This can lead to more bullying. Suicide rates are already high, why are you adding changing a policy that will make their environment harder? Why are you also banning books on any subject that makes you uncomfortable?  Banning Books eliminates students ability to learn about topics that maybe impacting their lives- to find like minded stories to relate to.

Stop going backwards Virginia , be the ones who stand up and do what’s right.


Your taxpayer dollars at work

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<p>The Governor, uninterested and incapable of goading the general assembly to change the laws put into place to protect the rights of the trans community, wants to make headlines and hurt people in his vain and ultimately useless quest for the presidency. He is more than willing to waste the time and taxpayer dollars in an attempt to marginalize children in the name of the Commonwealth. Going through with these changes would be gross on its own, but also it's just straight up illegal. Miyares and Glenn will get plenty of opportunities to be on TV over this, but they won't get it to stand in court. Embarrassing. </p>


More Cruelty Toward the Most Vulnerable

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Glenn Trumpkin may use his indoor voice a bit more than the other leaders of his party but his objective is the same: using hatred against a small, vulnerable group for political advantage. He may not have to charter airplanes or march through tear gas with a Bible in his hand, but this is just classic politics from a political party that no longer values truth nor democracy.


2022 Model Policies are unfounded

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The Virginia School Counselor Association (VSCA) opposes the Virginia Department of Education’s 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools as they are currently proposed. The 2022 model policies create barriers to privacy, dignity, and respect for Virginia’s students and seek to undermine previous legislation (i.e., § 22.1-23.3. Treatment of transgender students; policies) that works to create safe and supportive environments for our most vulnerable youth.

VSCA recognizes that:

56% of transgender youth reported a previous suicide attempt and 86% reported suicidality. School belongingness mitigates these risks and is a significant predictor variable for reducing suicidal ideation and attempts among transgender youth (Austin et al., 2020).

Transgender and nonbinary youth whose schools prevent them from using the restrooms/locker rooms that best matched their gender identities were significantly more likely to be sexually assaulted, 26% for transgender males and 149% for transgender females (Murchison et al., 2019).

28% of transgender youth whose pronouns are not affirmed attempted suicide in the past year. In fact, when pronouns are respected, transgender youth attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected (Trevor Project, 2020).

Transgender adolescents experience significantly disproportionate levels of childhood abuse compared to cisgender adolescents and experience greater levels of homelessness as a result of being kicked out or abused (Thoma, 2021).

Fewer than 2.5% of transgender youth re-transition to cisgender (Olson et al, 2022).


Disgusting and will harm kids

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<p>Pandering to your transphobic base to try to run for president in 2024 you pathetic little man. </p>


Oppose Youngkin’s Anti-Trans Rules

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<p>This policy is not safe for children, does not respect who they are, and is an insult to all Virginians. </p>


Strongly oppose

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I strongly oppose the proposed changes to treatment of trans children in the Virginia public education system. Implementation of these changes would severely impact the mental and emotional health of these children who need more understanding and help, not less. The proposal is cruel and unnecessary.


Thanks Youngkin

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Biological kids go in their biological bathroom/ locker room period!


These changes will harm kids

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<p>Some people like to pretend that schools and teachers are assigning or encouraging gender and sexual identities. This is false. Affirming that what kids believe about their own identity is valuable is just respectful. All kids deserve to feel respected and protected at school. The proposed policy changes will not respect individual persons. It will further marginalize a group that needs more support and understanding. </p>


Against

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<p>My transgender child is bullied regularly at school and would drop out of it weren’t for some great teachers and programs at his school. This policy will only escalate the bullying and destroys his faith in ever feeling like he will belong or even survive to adulthood. I’m not exaggerating. This is what we have been living with. Most people have no idea what this is like. You have no idea how exhausting it is to keep your kid positive and hopeful for the future when the government seems to be against their existence. </p>


Disagree with rollback

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<p>I disagree vehemently with the rollback of VA transgender students rights. How hard is it for you bigots to just be kind? Going out of your way to emotionally harm a very vulnerable group is wrong. Adults should know this. Too much ‘religion’ in GOP policies and not enough ‘love thy neighbor’ - using your power to make the lives of others emotionally difficult is as morally bankrupt as it gets. </p>


Have you no decency?

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This is a parent - child - doctor decision. The horrific memo you put out will gravely harm children in the Commonwealth. Just because you don’t agree or understand, doesn’t give you the right to chastise, malign or harm minors. These children deserve privacy and protection. I get it, Glenn, you have bigger fish to fry. You spend more time in other states than the one you are supposed to lead. You are quick to judge without understanding the bigger picture. Your words and actions could lead to disastrous effects. Let the children be who they are inside and out. You claimed to govern for all Virginians. You need to protect these kids - pray for them, sir. Please do not allow our AG to snoop through school files or anything that would compromise a minor child’s private info. PROTECT ALL CHILDREN!


Strongly OPPOSE

September 26, 2022
The Virginia School Counselor Association (VSCA) opposes the Virginia Department of Education’s 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools as they are currently proposed. The 2022 model policies create barriers to privacy, dignity, and respect for Virginia’s students and seek to undermine previous legislation (i.e., § 22.1-23.3. Treatment of transgender students; policies) that works to create safe and supportive environments for our most vulnerable youth.
VSCA recognizes that:

56% of transgender youth reported a previous suicide attempt and 86% reported suicidality. School belongingness mitigates these risks and is a significant predictor variable for reducing suicidal ideation and attempts among transgender youth (Austin et al., 2020).

Transgender and nonbinary youth whose schools prevent them from using the restrooms/locker rooms that best matched their gender identities were significantly more likely to be sexually assaulted, 26% for transgender males and 149% for transgender females (Murchison et al., 2019).

28% of transgender youth whose pronouns are not affirmed attempted suicide in the past year. In fact, when pronouns are respected, transgender youth attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected (Trevor Project, 2020).

Transgender adolescents experience significantly disproportionate levels of childhood abuse compared to cisgender adolescents and experience greater levels of homelessness as a result of being kicked out or abused (Thoma, 2021).

Fewer than 2.5% of transgender youth re-transition to cisgender (Olson et al, 2022).

Virginia school counselors work to remove barriers and support the social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students. VSCA Ends Policies state that “Virginia School Counselors are committed to working with and advocating for marginalized groups, promote the mental health and wellness of all students, adhere to the ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors, and actively work to dismantle destructive systemic inequities.”
Additionally, Virginia school counselors follow the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Position Statement on The School Counselor and Transgender and Nonbinary Youth (Adopted 2016, revised 2022) that states:

School counselors work to safeguard the well-being of transgender and nonbinary youth. School counselors recognize all students have the right to be treated equally and fairly, with dignity and respect as unique individuals, free from discrimination, harassment and bullying based on their gender identity and gender expression.

Finally, Virginia school counselors seek to create environments that are not only inclusive and equitable for all students, including our transgender, nonbinary, gender non-conforming and gender-fluid students, but that celebrate the full scope of their identities, allowing them to thrive and reach their fullest potential. Furthermore, Virginia school counselors commit to dismantling any and all forms of inequity in Virginia’s public education system and fully support LGBTQ+ students. Every Virginia student, regardless of their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation, has a right to learn free from discrimination and harassment.
Against this background, it is VSCA’s stance that the 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools are empirically unfounded and are not in accordance with evidence-based best practices concerning the treatment of transgender, nonbinary, gender non-conforming and gender-fluid students.

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September 26, 2022

The Virginia School Counselor Association (VSCA) opposes the Virginia Department of Education’s 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools as they are currently proposed. The 2022 model policies create barriers to privacy, dignity, and respect for Virginia’s students and seek to undermine previous legislation (i.e., <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://vsca.org/EmailTracker/LinkTracker.ashx?linkAndRecipientCode%3D1NPMOsRnym3Ax4o4aRFLF%252bZYlwvtdnAQicbWsX8Q79rd3bJmS%252brZFXimAWeEr2%252f78Tx9Enh6IOTK%252fXV9bwhaYoha096W4N0kHgjziJ%252bLANg%253d&source=gmail&ust=1664277562598000&usg=AOvVaw2YO7LWiqFW0vbE-jZ_IbUu" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" x="https://vsca.org/EmailTracker/LinkTracker.ashx?linkAndRecipientCode=1NPMOsRnym3Ax4o4aRFLF%2bZYlwvtdnAQicbWsX8Q79rd3bJmS%2brZFXimAWeEr2%2f78Tx9Enh6IOTK%2fXV9bwhaYoha096W4N0kHgjziJ%2bLANg%3d">§ 22.1-23.3. Treatment of transgender students; policies) that works to create safe and supportive environments for our most vulnerable youth.

VSCA recognizes that:

56% of transgender youth reported a previous suicide attempt and 86% reported suicidality. School belongingness mitigates these risks and is a significant predictor variable for reducing suicidal ideation and attempts among transgender youth (Austin et al., 2020).

Transgender and nonbinary youth whose schools prevent them from using the restrooms/locker rooms that best matched their gender identities were significantly more likely to be sexually assaulted, 26% for transgender males and 149% for transgender females (Murchison et al., 2019).

28% of transgender youth whose pronouns are not affirmed attempted suicide in the past year. In fact, when pronouns are respected, transgender youth attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected (Trevor Project, 2020).

Transgender adolescents experience significantly disproportionate levels of childhood abuse compared to cisgender adolescents and experience greater levels of homelessness as a result of being kicked out or abused (Thoma, 2021).

Fewer than 2.5% of transgender youth re-transition to cisgender (Olson et al, 2022).

Virginia school counselors work to remove barriers and support the social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students. VSCA Ends Policies state that “Virginia School Counselors are committed to working with and advocating for marginalized groups, promote the mental health and wellness of all students, adhere to the ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors, and actively work to dismantle destructive systemic inequities.”

Additionally, Virginia school counselors follow the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Position Statement on <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://vsca.org/EmailTracker/LinkTracker.ashx?linkAndRecipientCode%3DL6RTA1gphhP9lBTZtbUiGvxeQOLbjXsPKpJN13NN0ZrtBKQHMsF8%252fneQe%252bAzXLxuWVy977vSHgZLXgEVMnwXYmBW8%252fbhf9tbNjxDlO5WULI%253d&source=gmail&ust=1664277562598000&usg=AOvVaw3bYCEtK5kpybkbg0fcpBml" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" x="https://vsca.org/EmailTracker/LinkTracker.ashx?linkAndRecipientCode=L6RTA1gphhP9lBTZtbUiGvxeQOLbjXsPKpJN13NN0ZrtBKQHMsF8%2fneQe%2bAzXLxuWVy977vSHgZLXgEVMnwXYmBW8%2fbhf9tbNjxDlO5WULI%3d">The School Counselor and Transgender and Nonbinary Youth (Adopted 2016, revised 2022) that states:

School counselors work to safeguard the well-being of transgender and nonbinary youth. School counselors recognize all students have the right to be treated equally and fairly, with dignity and respect as unique individuals, free from discrimination, harassment and bullying based on their gender identity and gender expression.

Finally, Virginia school counselors seek to create environments that are not only inclusive and equitable for all students, including our transgender, nonbinary, gender non-conforming and gender-fluid students, but that celebrate the full scope of their identities, allowing them to thrive and reach their fullest potential. Furthermore, Virginia school counselors commit to dismantling any and all forms of inequity in Virginia’s public education system and fully support LGBTQ+ students. Every Virginia student, regardless of their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation, has a right to learn free from discrimination and harassment.

Against this background, it is VSCA’s stance that the 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools are empirically unfounded and are not in accordance with evidence-based best practices concerning the treatment of transgender, nonbinary, gender non-conforming and gender-fluid students.


Support

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<p>Please bring back common sense and safety to our schools. </p>


Strongly Oppose this cruelty

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<p>This policy will increase the suffering of trans and queer kids, pushing them towards abusive households, bullying, and suicide. Shame on everyone involved in crafting such policy. </p>


Glenn Youngkin is a Nazi

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Leave kids and teachers alone you grotesque fascist pig.


Oppose this horrible model policy

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This policy is horrible for trans youth on so many levels. It’s a sad day when one wealthy business  man thinks he knows what’s best for LGBTQ YOUTH even though he hasn’t consulted any professionals or his own DOE reps to draft this policy. Youngkin you have blinders on and now you’ll have blood on your hands. You’re either dumb, naive, or full of …guess what, I think you’re all 3! Go consult your people who are in this field. Medical professionals and the APA to drat policy. Politicians aren’t doctors. This isn’t a political issue this is a human issue. Keep politics out of our schools bc that’s all this is!


Object

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The schools are not the place to discuss sexual identity.   The schools need to get back to teaching reading, writing and arithmetics.   I do not support being mean or bullying anyone but I also do not support buying into other people's delusions as normal behavior.  It is very sad that our education system can't teach something as basic as girls have a vagina and boys have a penis..  You guys need to spend more effort towards mental health help.


Completely against this policy

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I’m not sure what the general public thinks is going on with transgender children in school or in families with trans children, but it seems misinformation and fear is guiding most people. Especially people who have never talked to transgender kids or families of transgender kids,read the actual data from the America Academy of Pediatrics or just felt like most parents want what is best for their kids. My kid is not a political stand; my kid is not trying to pollute, groom, or corrupt your child. My child wants to go to school, use the bathroom and not be harassed regularly for who he is. Where are my parental rights in this policy? Where are my child’s rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness? Policies such as this will end the lives of transgender children. It will put a group already at risk into more danger.
Additionally, there isn’t a magic wand of declaring a minor is transgender and immediately that child is “mutilated”. The transition period with medical intervention is not immediate or done lightly. No parent I know has taken medical transition lightly. We are not stupid. We want to do what is best for OUR kid and do what keeps them ALIVE. Sometimes those decisions lead to surgery sometimes not. Some transgender people NEVER even want surgery. There is not a one size fits all to being trans. This policy is a direct reaction to fear and misunderstanding and willful ignorance and intentional fear mongering. It is wrong. It is judgement without basis in fact. Furthermore, go to a typical public school. You will not see trans kids taking over or teachers shoving gender issues down anyone’s throat. Teachers have enough on their plates and simply (most) just want their students to succeed no matter their gender. So leave them alone too.


Children are not state property, they are part of their family.

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Public education should be sticking to reading, writing and arithemetic

Any gender identify issues that may arise with a student, that student has right of support from their parents.


Strongly support the new policy

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I am writing to offer my support for the 2022 Guidance policy. For too long, there has been a constant abdication of parental rights and involvement in the public space with their children. This policy, in my opinion, enforces those rights of parents to have a proper say in their childrens' upbringing, health and safety. Again, I strongly support this guidance


Support Trans Students

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<p>Our schools should focus on supporting students instead of making adults comfortable.   Helping transgender students feel safe in school is supporting their mental health. </p>


Against

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<p>Honestly it doesn’t matter what law you make, decent teachers will never put their students in harms way. I do not support this. </p>


World Economic Forum Evil Agenda - Forcing a Socialist Society

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This is all an evil agenda by the World Economic Forum. It's about forcing a socialist society, infiltrating our public school system and big corporations with this nonsense.  As free human beings, we need to get creative and rise above all this evilness.  Know that these agendas are not what is ultimately intended. Take some time to educated yourself.  Open your eyes...

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/03/what-my-transgender-child-can-teach-us-about-the-workforce-of-the-future/


Protecting the emotional support offered to all students.

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<p>Each student is entitled to emotional support from the school district they attend.  Ignoring the rights of transgender students is detrimental to their social and emotional growth as a young person.  By supporting the existing law concerning these rights, students can continue to grow in their journey to adulthood with the help of a caring and supportive school environment. In situations where students families do not accept or are not comfortable with their child’s decisions, perhaps resources can be made available to help them on their journey to learn more about the topic and how it applies to their situation. Threatening to kick a child out of the house or refusing to pay for college is certainly not helpful. The link between school and home is strong and anything to help bridge the transition to accepting a child’s transgender journey should be explored. Above all, protecting the student’s emotional well being must be a priority. Changing the existing law does not achieve that goal. </p>


I oppose this policy

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I am strongly against this attack on transgender people. If a student prefers to be called by a nick name in school, there is no problem (my name is Christopher but I preferred Chris and my teachers accommodated this). Calling a student by there preferred name is just basic respect and that should include trans students.

Also, outing transgender students can lead to violence/abuse against them and can impact their mental health which could lead to self harm and suicide.

Trans students should feel safe to be themselves just like every other student. This policy is blatant discrimination and, on a practical note, will be almost impossible to enforce. I know several teachers who have said they fully intend to ignore this policy when it is passed. Its nothing more than a ridiculous political stunt meant to appease the worst parts of the republican base. Virginia students deserve better than this from the governor.


Strongly Support

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<p>I agree that it is a fundamental right for parents to be involved in the decisions and education for their own minor child. I strongly support Gov Youngkin and the proposed changes. </p>


Contractions

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One of the many reasons  I left the education system because of the lack of parental responsibility and too much government intrusion. Children are unable to make up their minds on their sexual orientation.
Stop pushing pronouns, CRT, and SEL.
Please focus on academics and encourage parents realize the importance of self reliance, and good skills to help them in the future.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>Leave the evangelists to do their Work outside of school. Keep our schools inclusive. Please take the time to actually talk to families of transgender students to better understand their needs. That’s the approach that needs to be taken. </p>


Approve

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This guidance document ensures that parents are informed.  I recommend that this document be approved by the board of education.


Use of pronouns in school

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<p>The responsibility of remembering what someone should be called should not be put on teachers and this nonsense has to stop. Kudos to Gov Youngkin for putting some common sense back into the education system. It’s time for schools to teach snd parents to parent. </p>


Finally Some Common Sense Leadership

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<p>There are only 2 genders.  Everything else is a mental health issue that is being ignored by parents and the schools. I am glad to see that such behavior is being questioned and dealt with appropriately. </p>


strongly oppose this policy

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Having worked with students in both middle and high schools in Virginia for 26 years this policy will only cause damage. Transgender youth are already in danger of suicide, self harm, being kicked out of their homes, abusive situations at home, as well as targets of bullying and harassment to name a few. The previous policies PROTECTED all students, this new policy targets transgender youth in a very negative way. We already have a mental health crisis in youth and now you want us to obtain written statements from parents telling us what name to use for their children? Do you not understand that most of these children are NOT out to their parents yet for fear of abuse, disownment, harassment etc.? This is not a whim or choice, only about 2% of transgender students ever change back to cisgender. THEY NEED OUR SUPPORT!  Our job at school is to protect and provide a safe, welcoming environment for ALL students. This policy does not support that right and I strongly oppose it.


Opposition to new transgender policy

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<p>I strongly oppose the new transgender policy. The policy purports to be aimed at supporting parental rights. However, it actually makes it harder and more burdensome for parents to support their children who already are dealing with tough issues by unrealistically and unnecessarily requiring them to provide legal documents to support use of different pronouns for their child. Further the policy requiring students to use the bathrooms that correspond to their gender assigned at birth is harmful mentally and physically to students. The department’s policies should be about its STUDENTS and their well-being. Instead the new policy is about a politician scoring points with a constituency. This is cruel and will have detrimental consequences for children—all we should care about. </p>


Strongly Oppose The Changes

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<p>Correct pronoun and name use is incredibly critical to the mental and physical health of transgender students. The proposed changes to this law threaten that health and safety, by only allowing students who feel comfortable sharing their gender identity with their parents the right of being treated with the respect of their correct name and pronouns. There are hundreds of reasons a child might not feel comfortable sharing this with their parents - religion, politics, or even just not being ready to share with their family yet. The argument that parents have the right to raise their children themselves is nonsensical, as it implied that teachers are somehow forcing a gender identity onto trans kids by respecting their pronouns. Moreover, children request to be called different names than their legal name all the time. Will we need parental consent to call William Will, or to call someone who prefers their middle name by it? This proposed change unfairly targets transgender children, and will have dire consequences for their health and wellbeing in schools if enacted. </p>
<p> </p>


FULLY REJECT THESE HORRIFIC CHANGES

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<p>I strongly oppose this proposed policy and request the Superintendent reject these changes before irreversible damage is done to our children.  This proposal would create a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment for our VA transgender and nonbinary youth, requiring teachers and staff to forcibly “out” students, prohibit staff from supporting trans and nonbinary students such as using a students affirming name and pronouns, and prohibit access or participation in activities consistent with their gender identity.  All our students deserve a supportive and affirming school environment, especially our vulnerable and marginalized populations like our transgender and nonbinary youth. </p>


Support

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I strongly support the new guidance. I think it is reasonable.


Thank You Youngkin

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<p>I support parental rights and the new trans student guidance. </p>


U.S. History and the Virginia Code and Rule of Law Affirms Parental Rights

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I have been an active supporter of gay rights for over a decade and sat on a national board that helped to over turn "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" established by U.S. President Bill Clinton.  I also worked tirelessly to support civil marriage for all consenting adults. These were monumental changes in our society that made us a better nation.  That said, the current movement by educators and some politicians who are not board certified in mental health, gender dysphoria, and pediatric medicine is profoundly disturbing, unethical, and akin to medical malpractice.  There is a bright line between adult decisions and parental rights and the law in Virginia is quite clear and is based on thousands of years of culture and human history writ large: § 1-240.1. Rights of parents. A parent has a fundamental right to make decisions concerning the upbringing, education, and care of the parent's child.  The attempt by some to separate parents from their minor children is chilling and dangerous.  It is what Stalin attempted to do in the Soviet Union, Pol Pot did in Cambodia, and what the Chinese Communist Party is current doing to the  Uyghur children. Educators and politicians who want to separate minor children claim parents will abuse or harm children who may have gender dysphoria. Every educator and person who works with minor children is legally responsible to be a mandatory reporter so that all children are safe. Mandatory reporters are not to keep secrets with minor children from their parents.  If they suspect abuse they must immediately report that claim to law enforcement. There are laws on the books and training for all mandatory reporters to go to law enforcement so this argument is moot.  Think about this for a moment - how would you feel if a teacher gave razor blades to a minor child who is cutting themselves to "affirm" their affliction?  Or if a teacher helped an anorexic girl get fat removed from her body to "affirm" her affliction?  Affirming any mental health crisis without being board certified and without parental permission is caustic and destructive behavior.  It is insanity.  A child in Virginia schools cannot take an Tylenol without parental consent and yet some elected officials want to put the burden on educators to be a board certified medical professional. That is not only unethical it is illegal. To that end, this policy makes sense.  Removing parents from their legal responsibility to make decisions for their minor child by the school system is illegal and morally reprehensible.  This policy is on solid legal and moral footing and reaffirms parental rights in Virginia while supporting all children and ensuring educators are reminded they are educators and not medical professionals.


Respect for parents’ rights and our constitutional rights

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Gender and gender ideology is a fiction, and a religious belief system at that. As such, it’s wholly inappropriate for schools to coerce community members to adhere to its tenets (including “required” use of language).
I look forward to the day when the biggest medical scandal perpetrated against children is behind us, but until then, this policy offers decent reprieve.
Thank you, Governor Youngkin.


Safety for ALL Children

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<p>Completely supportive of the new policies. All children should feel safe, not just a small percentage. We have already seen numerous assaults with the old policies that pandered to mentally ill children at the expense of others. We voted for Governor Youngkin because we wanted to be the ones making choices for our children. Children safety is our priority. I also would like to see serious penalties for teachers and administrators who try to ignore or bypass these guidelines. We have a huge issue with this. </p>


Pronoun use in school

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<p>I fully support Gov Youngkin and applaud his initiative. Children are being encouraged To question their gender and schools need to do what they were intended to do….educate!!! You have kids graduating that can barely read because the focus is now on transgenders, giving sexual information and ways to prevent pregnancy! Teach reading, writing and common sense math and  leave the life decisions to parents and their kids. </p>


This is about saving student lives - oppose the changes

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I strongly oppose these changes. Having worked with our youth for the past 20 years, I've worked with many transgender students. Stripping them of the rights we've provided risks their lives. I have had many students who knew they couldn't be honest with their parents at risk for their own safety physically and emotionally. Mental health issues are at an all time high, why would we intentionally impose legislation that we know increases mental health issues in children that could lead to more self-harm, anxiety, trauma, and suicide? This is about safety and this change would put children at risk.


2022 Model School Policy

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I am in strong support of the new policy.  The state, via school board policy, has no right or legitimate claim to students over their parents.  Parents are the primary’s educators of their children and must have the ultimate say in their children’s education.


Genders

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GOD Created man and woman

There is no other gender

Parents you all should be ashamed of yourselves


Pronouns are Pretend Social Engineering

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Science: Only two chromosomes XX and XY and cannot be altered by Social Engineering

HER or Him


PRONOUN

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I HAPPILY AGREE WITH GOVERNOR YOUNKIN ON PARENTS HAVING TO AGREE TO A CHILD CHANGING THEIR PRONOUN AT SCHOOL.


Very Bad

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<p>This Is very bad and will hurt trans youth across the state. </p>


STUDENT PRONOUN

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<p>I FULLY SUPPORT GOVERNOR YOUNKINS POLICY ON STUDENT PRONOUNS.   PARENTS NEE TO AGREE TO A CHILD CHANGING THEIR PRONOUN AT SCHOOL.  </p>


Thank You Youngkin

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This policy is a breath of fresh air.  Encouraging parents to be a part of their children’s lives is (or should be) a no brainer.  Strengthening the family unit is one of many American values that has been thrown to the side in the name of moving the country as far left as possible.  Not to mention the common sense here - you’re either a male or a female.  There is no in between.  Parents - it’s time to start being that.  A PARENT!

Well done Governor Youngkin for using common sense and standing by his principles.  Keep up the good work.


Strongly support all people being who they are

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<p>Everyone is different. Everyone deserves to be proud of who they are and want to be. Let them be called by the names and pronouns they feel comfortable with. Let them use the bathrooms they feel comfortable with. This goes for all adults and kids. These kids are some of the most vulnerable. Protect them in all ways. They may come from abusive homes. There is a duty to protect them from their parents in that case. Do not force legal documents for use of comfortable names, pronouns, or bathrooms. Give them a safe space. </p>


Strongly support this policy

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As a mother of two girls and a teacher, I strongly support this policy.   The transgender craze is harmful, and will destroy many young lives.   As parents we have to stand up for our rights to protect our children from this insanity!


Parental Rights in School

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I support His policy to require parents to sign off on children changing pronouns in school. I feel like this policy should be extended to other students as well. I don’t believe it is necessary for others to be forced to use “made up” pronouns.


I strongly support this policy

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<p>I strongly support this policy.  It is imperative for parents to protect children and be 100% involved in their children's education. </p>


Thank Governor Youngkin

Hello,I am writing to say that I fully support the Governors proposed changes to the model policies, for three simple reasons:1) These policies are leading children into doing irrevocable harm to themselves.2) These policies are a clear violation of the freedom of conscience, and the first amendment, as it requires students, teachers, and faculty to engage in speech they know to be false.3) Our teachers are being forced to "right the cosmic injustices" of the world in their classrooms. It seems all attention is being paid to leftist political theories, rather than academic rigor, and the failing performance of our schools, is evidence to this fact. Schools are not a place for radical social engineering.  Thank you for have the courage of your convictions to keep the promise you made to the parents of Virginia. Sincerely, John T. Wilson

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Hello,

I am writing to say that I fully support the Governors proposed changes to the model policies, for three simple reasons:

1) These policies are leading children into doing irrevocable harm to themselves.
2) These policies are a clear violation of the freedom of conscience, and the first amendment, as it requires students, teachers, and faculty to engage in speech they know to be false.
3) Our teachers are being forced to "right the cosmic injustices" of the world in their classrooms. It seems all attention is being paid to leftist political theories, rather than academic rigor, and the failing performance of our schools, is evidence to this fact. Schools are not a place for radical social engineering.

Thank you for have the courage of your convictions to keep the promise you made to the parents of Virginia.

Sincerely,

John T. Wilson


Support!

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As a public school teacher, THANK YOU! I don't think a lot of people realize what our schools have become. I would like them to be places of learning, not social experimentation. Trans kids will have the rest of their lives to figure things out. They should do it at home, not at school.


Oppose policies

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I oppose the model policies. They are harmful to transgender and gender-expansive teens and children. Kids know who they are and need adult support.


Support

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I strongly support the policy as written and sort parental rights to be involved in what and how their children are being taught and exposed to.


Strongly oppose this policy

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


Strongly

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


CRT, Trans Policies for FCPS  Parents Rights Against

Kristin Jackson Mother of 4 in Fairfax County

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<p>Parents have rights and FCPS has no right to keep things from parents. CRT has to stop as well. I fully support Youngkin's policy is Schools against trans policy. Our kids don't belong to the state. CRT doesn't belomg in the classrooms either. Pronouns shouldn't be used. Kids know what gender they are and I believe some teachers, especially the school board are causing the students confusion at such young age. Allowing students to change their names behind there parents backs is dangerous. </p>
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Parental rights concerning transgender students

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<p>I fully support Gov Youngkin’s policy to require parents to agree to the pronoun students are called. I fully believe the education system, as well as most public policies, protect the rights of the very small minority and trounce on the rights of the majority of students and the teachers alike. They should not be held responsible for remembering what someone chooses to be called. Parents need to be more active in these important decisions as that is their responsibility as a parent! Letting children choose encourages more ridiculousness like identifying as a cat or dog and this IS happening also. Where do we draw the line. When they leave the education system they can be whatever they choose but as long as they are under 18 parents are the deciding factor and let’s hope they have the good sense to be a sensible guidance to their child. </p>


CRT, Trans Policies for FCPS  Parents Rights

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<p>Parents have rights and FCPS has no right to keep things from parents. CRT has to stop as well. I fully support Youngkin's policy is Schools against trans policy. Our kids don't belong to the state. CRT doesn't belomg in the classrooms either. </p>


Protect kids

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This is a shortsighted policy that will lead to more kids committing suicide. People need to be supported for who they are, and the people who put information on a piece of paper when they were born and too young to have agency do not know that person as well as the person themself.

Even if the argument of compassion doesn’t sway you, think of the argument of sense. This policy forbids nicknames. I don’t think I’ve ever heard any government overreach more petty and draconian that this.


Strongly support the new policy.

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<p>Parents should be involved in all things related to their children until they are adults.  Schools should stick to teaching and stop trying to push the globalist agenda. </p>


Another effort to bring back The Donna Reed Show

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This proposal is another Republican led effort to harken back to the imaginary days of the Donna Reed Show, Leave It To Beaver and Father Knows Best when all of a family's challenges could be solved in a half hour, parents were perfect and children had no serious issues.  Like the proposal, the shows did little to protect the most vulnerable and if enacted, will put children at risk.

The proposal may make for good politics, but at a terrible and needless costs.


?? yes

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<p>Schools need to get out of the way and stick to the basics of education. Their ONLY focus should be teaching children how to read, Write etc. keep this nonsense out of our schools. The forceful gender ideology is criminal and doesn’t belong in lesson plans, advisory Etc. Get back to education not what is equitable </p>


Kids know who they are

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Kids might not know what they want to be when they grow up (I’m 50-something, and I’m still not too sure) but they do know who they are inside better than anyone else. It hurts no one to call a child by their chosen name. As an early childhood educator, I learned whole school fulls of children's names, and some gasp were nicknames or even middle names.

It’s no longer acceptable to cram people into the box some small mind thinks they fit into, regardless of who they actually are, until they succumb to depression or anxiety or descend to the point of suicide. Every kid deserves a chance to reach their full potential, and for that to happen, they all need to feel equally safe in school.


Worst policy

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Let kids be kids and let them be called by whatever names they want. We all changed names at least once when we were their age. Are we damaged? No.

 Bathrooms are a non-issue as well. Kids don't even get bathroom breaks these days anyway because schools are too concerned about vaping and fights.

Stop this nonsense and tell parents if they want to be more involved in their kid's lives, they need to BE A PARENT and not demand that the schools do everything for them. They also need to spend time with their kids instead of yelling at school board meetings or complaining that teachers never tell them anything even though their kid has dozens of crumpled up notes from their teacher buried in their backpack.


100% support parental rights

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100% yes.
It is unlawful for Schools to take away parental rights. The high suicide rates with the transgender community are not because of the parents But rather because of the system failing a child, allowing the child to cut off their genitalia, and pursue a sex change at a very young age before the child has the sense that it is forever changing their future. Once the child realizes that they were pressured into an unalterable sex change, they will clearly be angry at the school system, their community, and their parents for failing them. A girl who has her breasts removed will never be able to nurse her children, and also worse may never be able to have children after the surgery. The fact that parents would not be involved in something so significant is criminal. This of course needs to change because parents to have rights despite what the school boards are pushing.


Strongly support

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The 2021 model policy blinded parents to what was going on at school with their own children. There is never a reason to exclude parents from the educational/social experiences of their children. Never.  The state is not the parent. Period.


Protect Kids

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Names matter and every kid deserves to be called by their chosen name without question.

I moved to VA in the middle of kindergarten. My new teacher was an old bat named Mrs. Vannoy who insisted that all children be called by their proper names. My proper name was Deborah and despite my parents telling her that I went by Debbie, she refused to call me by that name. To this day, I still cringe a little when I hear people use it because I grew to hate my own name by a teacher who wouldn't listen. Furthermore, I knew how to spell Debbie but not Deborah so imagine being a kid in school who doesn't know how to spell your own name.

As a teacher, I have kids that go by many names that aren't their own given name. Being a Southerner, most of my family goes by either a nickname or some other name like a middle name. I have friends who I don't know their real names because I've always known them by a nickname. NO ONE QUESTIONS THIS and they shouldn't. But if one day, if Amy wants to be known as Aiden or Michael wants to go by Chelle, it's suddenly harmful to the child - to use a name they chose.

We need to stop this nonsense and use the money creating these bigoted bills (and the ensuing lawsuits) to do something really useful like give school staff raises, purchase school supplies, and fix crumbling school infrastructure.


Parents should parent!!

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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.


I support the new policy

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<p>I support the new policy. The focus should be on test scores and good education not this nonsense. </p>


Support the policy

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<p>I support the new policy. We need to focus on education and improving the quality of education. Let teachers teach and parents raise their own children. </p>


Guidance 2022

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I support the new VDOE guidelines for schools. It’s time to get back to reading, writing, and arithmetic and stop the woke nonsense. Pushing pronouns on kids. Allowing children of the opposite sex in bathrooms and locker rooms is beyond ridiculous. Thanks you Governor Youngkin for bringing sanity back to our schools.


Transgender pronkun

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There once was a child from glouchester , who sued , and took his ( her ) case to the supreme court . Glenn Youngkin was not elected to change that . He was elected because Terry McAuliffe stated the obvious . School Boards decide issues with schools . Parents who listen to out of their f***ing mind republicans do not run the schools . I hope all you stupid ass people who voted for this rich  are happy now . YOUNGKIN AND TRUMP BOTH SUCK , AND WE NEED TO GET RID OF THEM BOTH


Wholly support the 2022 guidance

LH, Fairfax County Public Schools mother

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I fully support the proposed 2022 Guidelines.  The 2021 Guidance put schools in the position of severing the parent-child relationship, of deciding what is best for a child and of unduly influencing a minor child.  While supportive schools are essential, and the rights of every student are equally important, parents know, love and care for their children far more than schools, which are transient in a child's life.  The previous 2021 guidance went far beyond State and Federal Law in wresting decision-making and authority away from parents and handing it over to schools and non-guardians.

This new guidance appropriately revokes the deceit authorized by the 2021 guidance, which in practice directed schools to conceal its interactions with a minor child, whether over counseling or use of pronouns, facilities etc. This deceitful aspect of the 2021 guidance was one of its most problematic and dangerous features.

The previous guidance also cited and relied on resources only from ideological groups and smaller committees of medical professionals.  There is growing evidence, internationally and nationally, of harm from rushing children to gender transition, and the previous guidance fostered this by its complete omission of full research.  Most countries in Europe are moving away from the gender-affirming only approach, because of the accumulating evidence of harm to children.  Schools should never take on the role of influencing a child's sexuality or gender identity, and the previous guidance put schools in this position by an entirely one-sided approach to gender, rather than a balanced one as would be true of an evidence-based approach.

Additionally, the previous guidance put girls and women in harm's way by allowing males into all their safe spaces.  While the intent of the 2021 guidance is to allow transgender students to chose facilities, the practice in the way it is worded disallows questioning of any male entering a female space.  Further, the population of girls and women who have been victims of sexual assault is far greater than the population of transgender students, and it is wrong and dangerous for these women to have to fear males entering private spaces with them. There are reasonable and fair ways to protect transgender students without taking away the right to privacy and safety of every female in the system.

Further, the former guidance unlawfully compelled speech as to pronoun usage, again going far beyond both State and federal law.  Every child deserves equal respect, but the law does not grant them the right to compel the speech of others.

Every school will have to work out ways to respect and support transgender children, including for children who may face danger at home. It goes without question that support, compassion and respect are essential to caring for transgender children in schools. The answer, however, is not a blanket order affecting all families by unlawfully removing parental authority and involvement from a child's life, as was the effect of the previous guidance.  Schools and counselors should be partners with children and parents, not usurpers of parental roles.

This policy is a great step forward in removing the excesses of the 2021 Guidance.


Protect Kids

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This attempt to keep trans children from affirming their gender in the most vulnerable place they can be is a clear disregard for children’s lives and an attempt at nothing but conveying control over children with an extremely partisan belief.
Trans children are more likely to commit suicide over cis children. To declare any type of protection for children and then disregarding their right to be and simply just use a bathroom (a place that should be of extremely little concern of adults) makes the original argument disingenuous at best.
Protect children by allowing them the respect to make decisions regarding their own mental health and their decision to choose where to mind their own business without adults obsessing over their genitalia.