Proposed Policy Promotes and Enforces Illegal Harassment

The model policy set forth in this document is explicitly contrary to the plain meaning of the provisions of § 22.1-23.3 of the Code of Virginia. The code calls for model policies to be in accordance with evidence-based best practices; the current gold standard of such can be found in WPATH’s Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People [8th Version, 2022], which states:
“Multiple studies and related expert consensus support the implementation of approaches that promote acceptance and affirmation of gender diverse youth across all settings, including…schools….Examples proposed by Pariseau et al. (2019) and others of acceptance and affirmation of gender diversity and contemplation and expression of identity that can be implemented by family, staff, and organizations include:”
“3. Use of the youth’s asserted name/pronouns”
Note that this is the name/pronouns asserted by the youth themselves, not by their parents, as the proposed policy calls for; the proposed policy also explicitly defends the “rights” of school personnel and other students to misgender students, contrary to best practices, and, more importantly, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.  In Bostock v. Clayton County, the Supreme Court held that discrimination, including harassment, based on gender identity or expression is discrimination.  A pattern of repeated misgendering, as allowed and in some cases enforced by this policy, is considered harassment by the Department of Labor, and is thus illegal under Title VII and also explicitly contrary to § 22.1-23.3 of the Code of Virginia, which calls for the model policies to address “prevention of and response to bullying and harassment,” not the codification of it in policy.
“2. Communications that are supportive when youth express their experiences about their gender and gender exploration”“5. Positive and supportive communication with youth about their gender and gender concerns”“7. Support for gender diverse youth to connect with communities of support (e.g., LGBTQ groups, events, friends)”
The proposed policy states that “Parents must be informed and given an opportunity to object before counseling services pertaining to gender are given.” This will certainly have a chilling effect on transgender students who may either have unsupportive parents or parents with whom they are not yet ready to have a conversation about their gender identity, effectively denying them access to the “personal/social counseling which assists a student to develop an understanding of themselves” that shall be made “reasonably available…to all students” per 8 VAC § 20-620-10 a. In addition to being discriminatory against transgender students, it goes against the established procedures in VAC § 20-620-10 a for parental objections to counseling. In “opt-in” districts, parents would need to provide affirmative consent for such counseling in the first place, and for “opt-out” districts, parents already have the right to set out in writing what counseling procedures they do not wish to have their child participate in.  A special carve-out specifically for gender-related counseling is discriminatory on its face and contrary to evidence-based best practices.
“11. Gender inclusive facilities that the youth can readily access without segregation from nongender diverse peers (e.g., bathrooms, locker rooms).”
The proposed policy calls for trans students to be forced to use facilities based on their assigned sex at birth (or their legally recognized sex, if different), except to the extent required by federal law.  Federal law requires that facilities be made available to students based on their gender identity, per Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board, so these provisions, in addition to being discriminatory and against evidence-based best practices, are moot and only open up school district that attempt to follow them to unnecessary lawsuits while materially harming their students.
Finally, as a whole, the proposed policy sends a clear message that the government of the Commonwealth of Virginia is explicitly hostile to trans people, their parents and loved ones, and any loving person who may one day find themselves a parent to a trans child.  I know people who could choose to live in Virginia and have explicitly cited this policy and the fear of future policies like it as a reason that they could never live here. At a time when there are 300,000 job vacancies in Virginia that cannot be filled, proposed policies like these undermine Virginia’s workforce development and economy as a whole.
Zoe Thomas, PhDArlington, VA

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The model policy set forth in this document is explicitly contrary to the plain meaning of the provisions of § 22.1-23.3 of the Code of Virginia. The code calls for model policies to be in accordance with evidence-based best practices; the current gold standard of such can be found in WPATH’s Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People [8th Version, 2022], which states:

“Multiple studies and related expert consensus support the implementation of approaches that promote acceptance and affirmation of gender diverse youth across all settings, including…schools….Examples proposed by Pariseau et al. (2019) and others of acceptance and affirmation of gender diversity and contemplation and expression of identity that can be implemented by family, staff, and organizations include:”

“3. Use of the youth’s asserted name/pronouns”

Note that this is the name/pronouns asserted by the youth themselves, not by their parents, as the proposed policy calls for; the proposed policy also explicitly defends the “rights” of school personnel and other students to misgender students, contrary to best practices, and, more importantly, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.  In Bostock v. Clayton County, the Supreme Court held that discrimination, including harassment, based on gender identity or expression is discrimination.  A pattern of repeated misgendering, as allowed and in some cases enforced by this policy, is considered harassment by the Department of Labor, and is thus illegal under Title VII and also explicitly contrary to § 22.1-23.3 of the Code of Virginia, which calls for the model policies to address “prevention of and response to bullying and harassment,” not the codification of it in policy.

“2. Communications that are supportive when youth express their experiences about their gender and gender exploration”
“5. Positive and supportive communication with youth about their gender and gender concerns”
“7. Support for gender diverse youth to connect with communities of support (e.g., LGBTQ groups, events, friends)”

The proposed policy states that “Parents must be informed and given an opportunity to object before counseling services pertaining to gender are given.” This will certainly have a chilling effect on transgender students who may either have unsupportive parents or parents with whom they are not yet ready to have a conversation about their gender identity, effectively denying them access to the “personal/social counseling which assists a student to develop an understanding of themselves” that shall be made “reasonably available…to all students” per 8 VAC § 20-620-10 a. In addition to being discriminatory against transgender students, it goes against the established procedures in VAC § 20-620-10 a for parental objections to counseling. In “opt-in” districts, parents would need to provide affirmative consent for such counseling in the first place, and for “opt-out” districts, parents already have the right to set out in writing what counseling procedures they do not wish to have their child participate in.  A special carve-out specifically for gender-related counseling is discriminatory on its face and contrary to evidence-based best practices.

“11. Gender inclusive facilities that the youth can readily access without segregation from nongender diverse peers (e.g., bathrooms, locker rooms).”

The proposed policy calls for trans students to be forced to use facilities based on their assigned sex at birth (or their legally recognized sex, if different), except to the extent required by federal law.  Federal law requires that facilities be made available to students based on their gender identity, per Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board, so these provisions, in addition to being discriminatory and against evidence-based best practices, are moot and only open up school district that attempt to follow them to unnecessary lawsuits while materially harming their students.

Finally, as a whole, the proposed policy sends a clear message that the government of the Commonwealth of Virginia is explicitly hostile to trans people, their parents and loved ones, and any loving person who may one day find themselves a parent to a trans child.  I know people who could choose to live in Virginia and have explicitly cited this policy and the fear of future policies like it as a reason that they could never live here. At a time when there are 300,000 job vacancies in Virginia that cannot be filled, proposed policies like these undermine Virginia’s workforce development and economy as a whole.

Zoe Thomas, PhD
Arlington, VA


We support parental rights with the proposed 2022 Model Policies

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We have four young children and support the 2022 Model Policies

In particular, we fully agree with the language at the top of the document that schools should respect parents' values and beliefs. We believe in the inherent dignity of each person and want to help those who experience concerns regarding their gender.

But schools should not force parents, teachers, and administrators to conform to a child's preferred pronouns or name and in ways reinforce the child's confusion. Most children will work their way through such challenges by finding the root cause of the feelings and addressing that. Hormones and surgeries will not address these root causes and only add to the trauma experienced by such people, who deserve true care and respect.

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your time.


Strongly Oppose These Harmful Draft Policies

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I am the parent of a thriving 15 year old nonbinary child. I am grateful every day for the support provided to our family and for the inclusive atmosphere that pervades Arlington Public Schools. I am beyond angry at the draft proposals being put forth by Gov. Younkin.

Younkin's proposed model policy is:

Rooted in transphobia and seeks to further harm trans and nonbinary kids.

Seeks to erase trans and nonbinary youth from the classroom.

Creates a hostile & potentially dangerous school environment.

Requires teachers and school staff to forcibly “out” students to their parents against their will in some circumstances, such as when a student seeks counseling.

Prohibits teachers and school staff from supporting trans & nonbinary students, such as using a student’s affirming name & pronouns.

Creates bathroom and sports policies that prohibit access and/or participation in activities consistent with their gender identity.

My husband and I VOTE and we strongly oppose these hurtful, nonsensical policies.


Thank you Governor Youngkin for protecting Females & the Women's Rights Movement!!

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Thank you Governor Youngkin. We fully support in you in protecting females in bathrooms and sports!! God Bless you for protecting WOMENS RIGHTS!!! We didn't come this far in the women's rights movement to be overtaken by men, or aka transgenders, from infiltrating Women's Rights. Thank you!


Strongly support

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I strongly support the rights of parents in a child's education and their role to protect their own children. Study after study prove (and I've been told by many educators in Virginia!) that children have a far great chance of success at school when parents are involved.

Gov. Youngkin's proposals are common sense.


Policy is about Trans Treatment NOT Parental Rights

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The policy itself is titled "Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students." And it is NOT titled "Parental Rights." To bring parental rights arguments into this discussion is like talking about crickets but only speaking about the moon and never mentioning crickets!

The policy you propose has not taken into consideration ANY professional's knowledge, recommendation, or expertise on the BEST ways to support trans-students. The original VDOE model policy DID. You have taken the time already to create something of substance and with experts and yet you want to throw it all away....for what? Political gain? Personal self interest? What a colossal waste of time, resources and money (from what I imagine a political party that likes to tote that they are conservative and mindful of these resources)!!!

As a Stepparent to a trans youth, I try very hard NOT to be offended when those who argue for this policy bring in their personal freedoms and rights. It's not about the CIS parent or their CIS child - this is about what is best, evidence-based practice for integrating and including TRANS children! How can you make this about you? It's not about you! How do you know what is best for MY child more so than me?!?!

My stepson was a shell of who he is today before coming out. It was heartbreaking and frustrating as a parent to see our kid struggle and not be able to know how to help, where to start, etc. We watched a bright, confident, funny kid turn into a sad, angry and nervous kid. All I could do was make sure he knew we were there for him, loved him no matter what he was going through, and was here when he needed us. After my stepson came out, his whole world opened for him - he could laugh again, smile again, and we could see a physical, mental, and emotional change that touched our hearts. We finally knew our kid would be ok and we learned how to support him, honor him, and our love and bond has only grown stronger. He is a more confident, open, loving person because he can live his truth. Why would I take that away from him? Why would I or anyone want a child to live isolated, alone, sad, and angry versus happy and healthy living their truth? It makes no sense to me. If we are supporting our youth - then let's support our youth in how THEY need us to support them.

I also struggle with the argument that parents can complain or decide which bathroom my child can use. It literally puts him in a LOSE-LOSE situation! Imagine this: my kid uses his gender assigned at birth bathroom - a mother will complain that a boy was seen going into the girls bathroom. Flip, he uses the bathroom he is comfortable with - a mother complains that my child is in the wrong bathroom. So WHERE is he to go to the bathroom at school?! Safely?! Is my child to wait ALL day to use a facility because a random parent (who obviously never took the time to get to know me or my kid) is paranoid? If they had taken the time, they'd know and be assured that all he wants to do is go in, pee, and get out. They would know he is a delightful well-loved student who is in advanced classes and gets straight A's. They would know his teachers report only positive things. They would know his disciplinary record is unblemished! -- these are things that should not have to be proven and argued for him to safely use a bathroom while at school.

If your schools have a predator issue, then create a policy to control that - don't put that policy on my trans-kid. Don't tag "predator" onto him when it is CIS-gender students agreeing to meet up and things go too far. He has nothing to do with that. Again we are talking moon instead of crickets. Address the ACTUAL issue and stop getting side-tracked by fear, hate, paranoia, make believe, judgment, and self-interest.


VA Judge Finds Trans Teen Guilty of Sexual Assault in Loudon County- Thank you Youngkin!

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Thank you Governor Youngkin for keeping females safe in bathrooms!!

va-judge-finds-transgender-teen-guilty-of-sexual-assault-in-loudoun-county-high-school-girls-bathroom-case


I am strongly opposed.


Support Governor Youngkin and the safety of Females!!

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I fully support Governor Youngkin in keeping females safe in bathrooms!

va-judge-finds-transgender-teen-guilty-of-sexual-assault-in-loudoun-county-high-school-girls-bathroom-case


Protect parental rights

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<p>Please do the right thing. Protect the rights of parents and children and let the parents be the primary guide to their children's development. Let's protect the religious liberties of school personnel and students. Gender specific sports participation should be determined by sex in overnight accommodations and locker rooms. Students need to use the bathroom corresponding to their biological sex. </p>


Transgender Wyoming Woman sexually assaulted 10 yr girl in girls bathroom

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Keep young girls and females safe in bathrooms and sports!

Thank you Governor Youngkin!

transgender-wyoming-woman-convicted-of-sexually-assaulting-10-year-old-girl-in-bathroom


Oppose Youngkin's proposed policies for transgender & non-binary students

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Governor Youngkin's proposed policies are unlawful and will harm transgender and non-binary students.  The proposed policies should be rescinded.  Humans have rights and these proposed policies take away human rights, while threatening the safety of transgender and non-binary students.  I have been a public educator for 11 years and recognize the importance of self expression and self identity in all humans, which also includes transgender and non-binary students.  These proposed policies further alienate these students from society and being able to live in a just world.


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

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The new policies honor the sacred role of parents in the care of their children during school, athletics, and other activities.

Parents know their children's needs better than anyone.  If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and emotional support from parents.  Under the new policies, school officials must keep parents fully informed, and require schools to enforce laws, regulations and policies that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.


Transgender athlete hurts female player

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Enough said.....

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/north-carolina-school-district-votes-forfeit-games-rival-transgender-athlete-injures-player

Thank you Governor Youngkin!!  From a concerned female parent who wants to protect females in bathrooms and sports.


Protect Females in Bathrooms & in Sports!

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Thank you for putting this upfront and center Governor Youngkin! Protect females in bathrooms and in sports. What people who object to your policy is it only hurts females without having safety in restrooms or in sports. The are literally fighting against WOMENS RIGHTS! That's what is so sickening and unbelievable. All for a very slim percent of the population. Protect women at all costs and I thank you as a woman in defending our rights.

For those of you reading this that object to Governor Youngkin's policy please read these articles below. These are only a few disturbing stories in what's to come if we don't protect women!

north-carolina-school-district-votes-forfeit-games-rival-transgender-athlete-injures-player

vermont-girls-volleyball-players-banned-from-locker-room-after-objection-transgender-student-report

female-high-school-volleyball-athlete-191021646.html

For those of you reading this that object to Governor Youngkin's policy please read these articles.


THANK YOU Gov Youngkin. Support you 100%

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How have we come to this level of depraved insanity?  There are two genders, male and female.   Only two,   Anyone who identifies as something else, please get mental help. You clearly need it.

Continue to stand strong, Governor, and let common sense, moral courage, and personal strength continue to guide you.  You have the support of all hard-working, rational, law-abiding, tax-paying, family-oriented, VIRIGINIANS.  We ARE the majority and we are with you.

You are doing a great job, Sir.  Keep going forward, secure in the knowledge that the people of this great commonwealth are with you, as you battle these depraved, mentally-Ill leftist lunatics.


Strongly Support

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it’s past time for our institutions to recognize biological reality and that means ensuring children use the bathroom associated with their sex. Pushing transgenderism on minors is wrong and detrimental to their long-term well-being and health. The governor’s policies go a long way in helping preserve the innocence of children and giving parents greater oversight with respect to their children’s education and school life. Please move forward with the governor’s policies to protect our children and increase parental rights.


Why does 99% of society have to change for 1%? Compromise: single-user bathrooms. ThankYouGovernor

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Thank you for protecting girls Governor. Please consider single-user bathrooms.


Strongly support.

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We must put an end to this transgender insanity and protect the young women and girls attending Virginia schools.


Strongly Oppose Governor Youngkins Transgender Proposal

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Please do not implement these policies.  Children are children, whether they are trans or not.  People come in all shapes and sizes, colors, believe in different Gods, and we are all human beings.  Children/people that find themsleves in the wrong body have enough to worry about and concern themselves with, than where they can go to the bathroom, or change their clothes.  This is not a choice, the same as homosexuality, it isn't a choice - it is who they are.   I ask those of you who do not have a transgender kiddo in your life, to ask yourself how would you feel if you did?  We all want the best for our children, and finding yourself in a world where you are taking a journey you didn't know about can be a bit daunting, and being put on the outside looking in, and making policies that force that,  isn't where the United States of American should be.  Schools should be  a "safe zone" for each and every child - you don't know what each child lives with, and it's not your choice to decide.


Do not do this.


STRONGLY SUPPORT YOUNGKIN-Please governor SINGLE-USER bathrooms/locker-protect the girls

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Please Governor - single-user bathrooms. Protect the girls please.


Gov. Youmgkin's model policies

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I support the proposed model policies for Virginia education. Parents are the primary educators and are the best source of moral guidance for their children. Stop those who would secretly goinsert themselves into that relationship


Thank you! Support parents rights—great policy.

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I strongly support this common-sense policy which makes sure parents are informed and can protect our kids.

thank you, governor and team! Stand strong: 90% of Virginians agree with you, regardless of what our-of-state internet trolls leave on the comments.


In support of the 2022 Model Policies

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Governor Youngkin was elected on giving parents control. Parents know better how to protect their kids' interests than administrators do.  We must respect the results of the election and enact this policy change.

This document also seeks to protect kids from bullying, which is also critical. Kids are trapped in school all day and deserve protection.

This policy ensures kids are protected, and that parents can oversee what's going on with their kids.

Neil Stevens

Garrisonville, Va.


STRONGLY SUPPORT

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I completely support this proposal and thank Governor Youngkin for returning power to parents.


Strongly SUPPORT

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<p>Parents are the primary teachers of their children and that role should not be usurped or revoked in favor of of the government or any other institution. </p>


Gov Younkin's proposal

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I oppose Gov Younkin's proposal - it's grossly unfair to transgender/nonbinary VA school children.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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Terrible policies. Kids are not pawns.


Support

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


Support keeping girls safe at school. Thank you governor.

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Please allow our children to grow up without the perverse left’s indoctrination.


Support Parental Rights and Protect Children

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I support Gov. Youngkin's proposed guidance on how schools should care for students who come out as transgender. Parents should absolutely be involved in major changes to their child's physical and mental health. Allowing school officials to assist children in a transition against their parents' wishes is putting in children in a position to be taken advantage of by ideologues or, worse, creeps.

The vast majority of children who suffer from gender dysphoria grow out of these feelings by the time they reach adulthood (Singh, Bradley, Zucker, 2021). Thus it is perfectly reasonable and NOT abuse for a parent to not want to transition their child socially or medically. It IS abuse to pathologize normal adolescent struggles, such as insecurity or discomfort with puberty.

Let's take care of and protect our children. Thank you Gov. Youngkin for this common sense rule proposal.


Oppose Youngkin's discriminatory and harmful changes

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<p>Every person should have individual rights to safety. Bathrooms are scary? So are abusive parents. Support teachers and schools to make good decisions and provide a safe educational experience for all students. If this means changing security around the bathrooms, greater punishment of all assaults, a greater number of counselors per Capita, etc-- so be it. I would applaud those changes. But do not cause greater harm to a marginalized and greatly set back small portion of the community just trying to be themselves and figure out what that means. Youngkin's policies harm kids. Stop helping overbearing parents groom their kids into a pretty little binary. Kids deserve a safe space to grow and figure things out. It's hard to be a child. It's difficult to be different, too. Arming parents with more sway over kids doesn't do much for the schools. Hire more help in the schools and keep the schools safer. Empower teachers. Pay teachers better. But for the love of humanity don't take away the safe space at school for young people who desperately need it and who should have the right to some autonomy. Just make schools safer-- PERIOD. Parents who want to change things should enter the workforce as teachers if they want to control kids so badly. I personally trust my children to be who they are and I want teachers in their schools that are focused on supportive education and personal growth so that they will be happy, self-secure adults. These bills strip teachers of the ability to best guide their classroom experience and mentor kids-- especially kids who have a difficult home situation. As we know, overbearing and abusive parents have a way of keeping that from being discovered. There are good ways to go about making schools a safe place for kids and increasing the transparency of their education. Youngkin's policies are harmful and just a ploy to get parents up in arms enough to vote. Don't harm a tiny fraction of the population in this way. If one of my children was transgender or nonbinary, I would want them to have agency over those decisions. It's a deeply personal decision that should be made carefully but it's an individual right and freedom. Don't let religious parents keep their kids from religious freedom in schools. Freedom from religion is part of freedom of religion, a right all of us have whether adult or not. Our kids need bodily autonomy and the ability to test out decision making and identity. Don't let that be taken from them because of a moral panic. This is a silly outrage. ALL kids should be protected. ALL kids are at risk from grooming and assault. Why don't we take steps to empower children and their teachers to create and maintain a safe, respectful environment for ALL children?? Youngkin is proposing yet another type of policy that excludes those who are "others" and takes away their autonomy. Worried your child might disappoint you? Grow up, and leave my child's classroom experience alone. </p>


What the hell is a furry? Liberals have seriously lost their minds!!!!!!

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<p>Perhaps I’m a little old school… but seriously what is going on in these liberal schools? Kids identifying as other species and it’s being legitimized by the staff? What??? They are playing fantasy games with these children. If you are a parent in one of these woke school districts, RUN! There is no stopping their runaway woke train. </p>


Strongly oppose.


Fully Support This Policy

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<p>Parents are responsible to teach values and social mores to their children, not paid school staff. </p>


Opposed

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<p>I oppose this policy.  This does not move anything forwards, it is a huge step backwards.  </p>


Youngkin's transgender policies

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I disagree with these new policies on transgender students.  They are archaic and cruel.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Body Parts & Do We Need Bathrooms No More? Here's the Answer

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<p>If it has a penis it's a boy. If it has a other thing it's a girl. And we don't need to have bathrooms no more; people can just go outside. </p>


OPPOSE policy, Parents Ignorance in believing politicians misleading them and evangelical hypocrites

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Read your bible and you won't have time for the hatred you are supporting. Read your bible and you won't support con men playing to gullible citizens. Parent's rights indeed. It is hatred, pure and simple. A few reminders: treat others as you would be treated, help the less fortunate, love your neighbor, remember?


Virginia Parental Rights Policy

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I fully support the proposed 2022 Model Policy on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools.  It is unfortunate that such a policy has to be articulated, as the 2022 Guiding Principles are items that should be understood without question - that parents are ultimately responsible for decisions regarding their children.

Unfortunately, the 2021 Model Policy, in the Student Privacy/Confidentiality description, allows removing parents from the decision process under the questionable label of "unsupportive families".  The document does not define "supportive" and implies that the decisions/opinions of school age children can and should, with school administration support, override parental authority.  This places school staff in a position to remove parental influence and encourage potentially life altering decisions by children and enabling school admin, with parents bearing all of the responsibility for the consequences.

Because of the gross malfeasance and complete disregard to parental rights by the administration responsible for the 2021 Model Policy, the proposed 2022 Model Policy has become a necessity and has my full support.  Any parent who believes they, not school admin, has the right to make decisions regarding their children, should also agree.


I vehemently oppose the governor’s policy

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Transgender children are not a political tool to wield as you see fit, Governor Youngkin. You are targeting the most vulnerable population, young children who do not feel comfortable in their own skin and just want to fit in amongst their peers. This policy is dangerous, flies in the face of medical professionals in VA and beyond, and is deeply cruel to a small and vulnerable group of Virginians. Have you no shame?


Support Gov Youngkin and overhaul of DOE policies

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I strongly support Governor Youngkin's overhaul of the VA DOE transgender policy mandates.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


For Parnets rights and freedom or association

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I am definitely for Parent’s right to know what is going on in their children’s education & activities at school. I am also for NOT forcing children to dress & shower with other’s of another sex.

Thank you,

Ray


Please don't start these policies

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Please don't implement the proposed policies to effectively erase trans children.  They have enough to deal with without the government stigmatizing them.  It won't hurt straight kids to be around someone different and learn that different isn't necessarily bad or frightening.


Productive relationship between parents, teachers and school administrators for the students

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For the sake of the students no bullying or harassment shall be tolerated.  Opinions of others shall not be forced upon anyone while all opinions are taken into account and conflict resolution is employed when required.  Parents input shall be valued and school administrators shall be clear that such input is valued.  For the students mental health there needs to be free and open discourse between parents, teachers and school administrators in an atmosphere governed by civility.  Students will pick up on any hostile conflict between home and school and may feel torn between the two.  If problems exist the goal is to resolve them as amicably as possible and not to vanquish the other side at all costs.  Learning should be fun, not an experience to be dreaded.  While the 2022 statement may not be perfect it is an improvement over the 2021 statement that did not appear to value any parental input at any time.


Strongly supportive of Gov. Youngkin's new policies

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Parents are the first teachers of their children and have an irreplaceable role in guiding them an ensuring their well-being. State education policies should also recognize self-evident truths of biology and human sociability. For these reasons, Northam's administrative regulations weaken the state and our posterity, and it is good that Youngkin's administration is fixing these deficiencies.


Ann Marie Barrett (LCPS counselor) arrested for sexually assaulting her transgender student

Keep parents away and let the counselors handle it?

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Loudoun County has become the laughing stock of the educational system. We have an absolutely disgraceful school bird and superintendent.


I fully oppose this.


Transgender policy overhaul- agree

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I agree with the policy overhaul. 1st all humans should only be allowed to compete in the gender of whi h they were born period.... second if I had daughters, I would not want any male. Hild in the same head (restroom) that my daughter 5, 15, 25 in at any point. Be responsible for who God made you..... period.


Can we agree we all want what's best....

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We are in a political and social environment that is encouraging discourse instead of communication. I think everyone on this site agrees that we want what is best for our students and children, regardless of political affiliation. I believe we all agree that we are entitled to individual rights as citizens of the United States. I also believe we can agree that student mental health has plummeted in recent years, leading to more suicidal ideation and completions.

I am a school counselor, a parent and a relative of a transgender individual. In regards to my profession I am obligated to keep students safe and develop trust with them so they have a dependable person they can speak with when life feels like too much. As a parent, I feel it is my job to listen openly and without judgment, to hear my children as they develop and move through life. As a family member I believe it is my role to support my niece, regardless of who she is, and especially because the mental health and social safety of transgender individuals is constantly at risk.

Everyone, regardless of race, creed, or sexual orientation deserves to felt heard and supported. Not everyone will receive that in their homes or social groups. It is imperative that we are able to provide safe, confidential environments for these individuals. Therefore it is my hope that this new provision will not become law.


Support new model guidance

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<p>Virginia schools belong to the people of the Commonwealth and not to a small special interest group. The Governor was elected to represent the will of the citizens. </p>


Virginia Department of Education  2022 Model Policies

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I strongly support Governor Youngkin's proposed 2022 Model Policies On the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools.  The proposed policies are fair and comprehensive.XV


Oppose Guidance

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<p>I oppose the proposed guidance regarding treatment of transgender/non-binary youth in Virginia schools.  All children are guaranteed equal rights in our constitution.  As a former teacher, I am aware of how important protection of students is to their lives currently as well as they mature into adulthood.  In too many cases, the school is the only place children feel safe and protected.  We have an obligation as educators, and as caring adults to provide the protections needed.  The proposed guidance package does not do that.   It should not be accepted. </p>


Give the previous policies a chance

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<p>There is a reason the existing policies were adopted/accepted and that needs to be allowed an opportunity to play out before changing anything. Right now, all of the fears and concerns are based on personal feelings and religious beliefs and not backed by science, or results. Switching things up at this point without analyzing actual outcomes is irresponsible and poor governance. </p>


Don't support legistlation that harms trans people

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I am assuming the best intentions from Youngkin (despite the growing evidence against), but his policies regarding Trans people are going to be harmful to that population over time. All the experts in this area agree: parents, teachers, psychologists, and most of all, the trans community. Please listen to their advice and do not move forward with these policies.

No matter which party you subscribe to, no matter your religion or beliefs, it is never too late to just stop and talk to another human and understand what they are going through.


I Support Governor Youngkin and Parental Rights

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I Support Parental Rights In Our Schools!


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


“Parental rights” for who?  These policies suck!

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Youngkin said during a recent interview: “We must have parents at the front of the line — not at the exclusion of a trusted teacher or counselor — but parents must be the first stop for these decisions.”

How shortsighted of you! Not all of us are so dumb to fall for this.

While this might work if the parents are loving and supportive,  but what if they aren’t? Then what? You may end up with blood on your hands.

What basis do you have to overrule all of the major psychological associations that have designed standards of care for trans minors over the last several decades?


Pro-parent policies in the school

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<p>I am greatly in favor of parents' rights to decide what kind of education their children are being subjected to in the schools. Schools are for educating our children to be successful in life, without personal and/or political biases. Teach the facts only! Protect the innocence of our children and don't subject them to the nonsense of this world before their time. </p>


Nothing but a dog whistle and I strongly oppose

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The 2022 Model Policies are nothing but a dog whistle, and the timing, of course, is perfect for midterm elections. This is just a political ploy, which should be obvious to anyone just by the mere fact that the 2022 Model Policies specifically state that "for any athletic program or activity that is separated by sex, the appropriate participation of students shall be determined by sex." The 2021 Model Policies already require this. Read the current policies!


These policies perpetuate a pattern of forcing “Christian” nationalism on all of us!!!!!!

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From WAPO:

Contrary to statements that suggest otherwise, the 2022 model policies do impose a specific ideology. Christian nationalism is not relegated to churches, extremist groups or religious-political leaders; it exerts control and fosters political violence through public policies and institutions that seek to exterminate non-White, non-Christian, and non-heteropatriarchal thought from the nation.


Do not do this.


I oppose Governor Youngkin's changes to the model policies

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I oppose the changes to the model policy that the Youngkin administration is pushing. If trans kids felt comfortable talking with their parents about this topic they would. These changes put trans kids at risk from their own family. The original model policy was trying to create a space where trans kids could feel accepted and safe. I would feel terrible if I created an environment where my kids could not come to me directly to talk issues they are facing and how they are feeling. These changes force the school to potentially put kids in a dangerous environment in their own home.

Again I oppose Youngkins changes the the model policy and how the department of education keeps the old policies in place.


Gov. Youngkin’s proposal overhaul of VDE transgender policy mandates

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I am in favor of this action. Parents are FIRST in the education of their child(ren). This right should be preserved.


Strongly Opposed, from a former Virginia public school student

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I went to Virginia public schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade, and I am ashamed that my state is proposing such harmful policies for students going to those same schools today. These policies as proposed will cause significant harm to trans students in Virginia schools. Proponents of this policy will claim that they are protecting parents' rights, but in practice, this policy only adds hurdles to trans students, and even to their parents if they are supportive of them.

When I was in school, some students would go by a different name. Sometimes it was a shortened version of their first name. Sometimes it was their middle name. Sometimes, it had no relation to their legal name at all. And that was fine. Nobody had an issue with it. They would tell us their name, and we would call them that. I don't understand why anyone thinks that calling someone by their chosen name or stated pronouns is a challenge. I'm sure many who support this policy have no issue adapting when a friend of theirs gets married and may change their last name. Why is it harder for trans people?

So when I see a policy that requires school staff to use a name associated with a student's legal name, all I see is hate. Supporters have argued that approving parents can ask for the school to allow for their student to go by a different name, but that is both 1) not what the policy says (it requires a legal name change, which is significantly more effort which a trans kid may not yet be ready for) and 2) forgets that school can be a safe space away from abusive or unsupportive hole situation, and being forced to be deadnamed at school ruins that for them.

This policy is not about protecting parents. It's about discriminating against, ostracizing, and eliminating trans kids. And I will not stand for state-sanctioned hate in the same schools that I was a student in.


Proposed transgender policies

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<p>Our job as adults is to support our children.  These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids.  I am virulently against policies that will actively harm children. </p>


Transgender policy

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<p>I believe the parents should guide their children in choosing their gender id. The parents should be informed if the school has allowed children to choose a gender id at school </p>


Transgender students school policy

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I oppose this dangerous policy.


We support the policy

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The school is a place for educating kids and providing a safe environment for learning.  The current policy creates an adveserial relationship between the community and the schools.  When sending a child to school the parent does not give up its parental authority.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Strongly oppose this policy.

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<p>Please create policy that supports the transgender community. This hateful policy will lead to dangerous situations for people who are questioning, transitioning,  or choose a different pronoun. Schools need to be a safe place for all students. As a governor you should support all of your citizens and not just some. This is shameful and will harm people. </p>


I oppose the guidance

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<p>I strongly oppose this guidance. As a parent of a trans teen, I can testify that school support has been key to their happiness and self-acceptance. Support for trans kids saves life and if the kids are not supported at home, schools would be the only environment that could provide the support they need. </p>


Selfish temper tantrum mob wants to erase everyone else’s “rights”.

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What rights have trans people lost? They have the same rights as every other member of our society. They are throwing a temper tantrum when they arent allowed to infringe on other peoples rights. Like the right of girls to compete amongst themselves in fair and competitive competition. Like the right of girls to use the shower and locker rooms without males in her safe, private space. Like the right of people to properly use the English language without having to refer to a singular person as a they. Wake up and speak out against this woke selfish mob!


Cease overburdening educators.

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<p>Empowering parents to overstep the sentient individualism of their children adds another responsibility onto the already overburdened backs of educators.  Educators have already given up their careers following the unresolved gun crisis, the pandemic and remote teaching and now we have leaders behaving like micromanagers on issues that destruct them from their own responsibilities.  Leave educators to their roles.  Leave people to make their own choices.  This issue does not impact anyone on a state legislative domain.  </p>


Protect children and parental rights

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Parents know their children better than politicians or liberal teachers/teachers' unions promoting the woke agenda. Students' participation in sex-specific athletics, school activities, events, locker room use, overnight travel accommodations, and the use of restrooms should be based solely on the biological sex of the child. Thank you, Governor Youngkin for protecting children and parental rights.


I oppose this policy

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I am a family member of a trans student in Virginia public schools. I completely oppose this draft policy and strongly urge the VA Department of Education to reject it. Schools should be safe places for all students, where they can focus on learning and enrichment. Youngkin's policy would create a hostile environment for trans and nonbinary kids. Their access to activities that align with their gender identity would be denied. School would become a place that negatively affects their mental health and sense of self-worth. Trans and non-binary kids, in addition to all LGBTQ youth, already experience increased risk of suicide according to the Trevor Project. Creating a school environment that is not welcoming and potentially dangerous would significantly increase this risk. I would fear for my nephew's life.


Stop discriminating against females. Governor please read

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The entire concept surrounding what it means to be a female has been trampled on by males, not only have women been reduced to “birthing persons,” “chest feeding persons,” and “anyone who identifies as a woman.” This not only devalues females and erases their achievements, but this narrative also lies to young men, and tells them that their role as a man is unimportant to society. Transgender ideology as a whole is consistently harmful, especially when injected into schools presented as proven scientific fact, rather than a new and strictly western theory.


I oppose this fully.


I am strongly opposed.


Step in the right direction, SUPPORT

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Over the last 10+ years, public education has been failing our children.  It is broken in many respects.  It’s almost as if it has a disease, and the severity of that disease is dependent on where you live.  The moral fibers are being torn at the core, and faith is being removed from society.  This has consequences, and evil knows to attack the most vulnerable, our children.
Public education should stay in its swim lane, teaching core fundamentals of math, science, etc.


My support for restoring the role of parents in public education.

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Good morning

I am writing this lines to express my support for restoring the role of parents in public education. I am a  Virginia resident and parent with children graduated from Fairfax  County Public Schools and two still assisting to Fairfax  County Public Schools; because I want them to fallow almost the same education path but lately had concerns about his education because of that in the last years I have Jenn thinking even about home schooling them because I had seen many changes over seventeen (17) years.

We the parents are the primary care givers of our children and the ones who love them the most and want them to become the best citizens they can be for God; for our State and our Nation. I firmly believe that any  government regulation or educative plan should over rule our role as primary care givers of our children. Virginia has been our home and we love Virginia and all the people that share this beautiful state; that is why  I support restoring the role of parents in public education.

God bless this State and our Nation.

Yerko Baptista


Support youth- oppose this action

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<p>We should support youth, and provide opportunities for inclusion whenever possible. This bill does not promote inclusion or kindness. Transgender youth should not be excluded but should be included and supported and their identity should be validated. </p>


Support parental rights… not teachers grooming kids.

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We don’t send our kids to school to think like their teachers. They are there to learn from them.


I am against this policy.

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Transgender kids die daily due to suicide. School should be a place where adults work to make kids safe. I am the father of an 8th grader and am ashamed that we are playing politics with these young people’s lives.


Restoring parental rights to transgender policy mandates in public schools

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Parents know their children's needs better than anyone.  If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and support from parents.  Under the new policies, school officials must keep parents fully informed, and require schools to enforce laws, regulations and policies that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.

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


HIWASSEE TRANSGENDER VOLLEYBALL PLAYER SEVERELY INJURES FEMALE HIGH SCHOOLER WITH SPIKE TO THE FACE

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Governor, please save our youth from these crazy liberal experiments!


I Fully Support


Well reasoned and fair position Governor Youngkin!

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Thank you Governor Youngkin for this fair, compassionate, and well reasoned approach that acknowledges and all children and protects parental rights!


Protect girl's sports- girls rights are human rights.

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We have rights too. We have the right to play against fair competition and in a safe environment. We have the RIGHT to change our clothes without males in our locker rooms.


Parental Rights

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Parents are the first and primary educators of their children.  Their role is irreplaceable. Parents rights are primary. Parents know their children better than anyone. Parents need to be informed of what is happening with their child while on school grounds as soon as possible.Studen athletes need to be allowed to use facilities that correspond to their sex assigned at birth by a medical doctor.


Support

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Fully support Glen Youngkin!


Treatment of Transgender Students in Public Schools

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Fully support Gov. Youngkin's policy.


Teacher in support of transgender youth

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<p>As a teacher of 22 years in Virginia, I strongly oppose this policy. It destroys the steps we have take to protect one of our most marginalized groups.  If those opposed would spend some time researching the bologna of genders (like real scientific studies), they would see that this is so much more than what they are equating it too. Please denounce these policies and reinstate the 2021 model policies.  </p>


Remember the Loudon Bathroom Rapist? School protected him, not the victim.

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Gov. Youngkin is one of the very few looking out for our kids. The school protects the perpetuator, not the victim. Remember the Loudon Bathroom Rapist, the one the schools protected instead of the girl who was raped. If you want more evidence of these kinds of things, read The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker. Gov. Youngkin is doing the right thing!


Boys have used the boys room since the beginning of time- nothing has changed.

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<p>Society has rules. So sorry. Stop throwing temper tantrums and use your own bathroom. </p>


I strongly support Model Policy 2022 and am grateful to Gov. Youngkin!

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Governor Youngkin,

Thank you for courageously bringing back the common sense rights of parents to guide, instruct, and protect their children from unwanted sexual confusion of their children.

Please help VA's students get back to learning reading, writing, and arithmetic, and leave the sexual content outside of the classroom, in all its disguised forms.

Lord Jesus Christ, please help America get back to righteous living and honest conversations, protecting children's mental state and providing responsible caring instruction. Amen.

Grateful for your stand Governor Youngkin and praying for your administration and family.

Sahar Smith


Strongly Support

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I fully support restoring the role of parents in public education. Parents are the first teachers of their children and have an irreplaceable role in guiding them and ensuring their well-being.


Support parental rights and safe bathrooms


I completely oppose this.

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<p>If this gets passed it will harm so many trans kids’ lives. Why are we passing things that are actively harming a community (children and teens) that it is our (the government’s) duty to protect? Do NOT pass this. </p>


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Judge finds transgender teen guilty of Loudoun County bathroom sexual assaults

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Loudoun County school board members need to be locked up!


support trans youth and safe classrooms

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There have been multiple studies showing that adolescents undergoing gender affirming hormone therapy have an extremely high continuation rate years after starting. This one published in The Lancet followed a group of of 720 teens undergoing hormone therapy for 5 years. By the end of the study 98% of the participants had continued treatment into their 20’s.

These kids know who they are and what they want. We owe it to them to offer the same support and compassion we expect to be extended to all young people.

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2352-4642(22)00254-1/fulltext


Thank you Governor Youngkin!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you Governor Youngkin for working hard to uphold and restore values that God intends to be in our lives.  We support you! God bless!


Rescind the 2022 model policies

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<p>As a parent, I am asking you to rescind the 2022 model policies. The government needs to protect all children and make school a safe place to learn. Trans students, especially, need protection and these policies put them at risk. </p>


If there were fathers present in these kids lives, this wouldn’t be an issue.

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<p>Of course fathers and nuclear families endanger the woke liberal agenda. </p>


Strongly Oppose- This policy is deadly!

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<p>School Counselors work with students who come out. They help students process through and get them to a point where they feel comfortable coming out to their family member.  School employees should not be the ones that let the parents know their child is transgender, the student should.  It is deadly for transgender students if this does not happen on the timeline the student is comfortable with.  We will lose children if this policy is adopted.  </p>


oppose new guidance

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I strongly oppose this guidance, The school board should focus on reading, writing, math and American history. people are elected to serve the people. They should do the right thing for the position elected to.  Not follow current Trends in society such as cancel culture, transgender, equity etc...

Schools should protect student from harassment, decimation, and bullying, no matter what sex. the clause should not refer sex.

I am not opposed to a single bathroom available, but it should be marked as family with a sign female & Male, with no meaning towards transgender. even place a changing table in it,

Schools should attempt to accommodate students with distinctive needs. Regardless of anything else.

C 2. should only be acceptable from Parent, not student. Anything dealing with records should only come from the parent not the eligible student.


Thank you Gov. Younkin!

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Thank you for protecting our children and their families from misguided and very damaging gender ideologies.  One day historians will look back on the transgender movement with the same horror that we look upon the lobotomy era of psychiatric medicine.


Support this document

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<p> The new policies honor the sacred role of the parent in the care of their children</p>


Pro-Parent Policies in Public Schools

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Yes, Yes, Yes!!! It is about time that we have some common sense policies emanting from our government here in Virginia.  This policy reinforces God-given parental rights and reigns in dictatorial edicts emanting from out "Woke" public school boards.

This policy is fair to everyone.  It treats those poor souls who are suffering from sexual dysphoria with kindness and compassion and recognizes their right to be treated like any other individual.  It also recognizes the rights of tens of thousands of girls in our schools to have their privacy honored and not be subjected to humiliating behavior by others.

Parental rights cannot and should not be diminished.  This policy must go into effect to preserve the natural order of the family in this country.


I fully support Youngkin’ new guideline

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<p>Support new guidelines </p>


Thank you Governor for protecting the children.

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Thank you Governor for protecting the school children.  Parents are the ultimate care givers.  The schools are not.   Parents need to be informed by the schools if their child is expressing concerns on gender issues to them.  Students should be able to feel comfortable in a locker room. Please protect their rights.


Strongly OPPOSE

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These draft policies are solely to further Youngkin's political career and should be rejected. Leave protections for LGBTQ kids in place.


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Oppose. How is this different from forcing the Jews to be identified and labeled. History repeats itself.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Creating Danger Where There Was None

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I understand that this is a new horizon with our society and communities feeling safe enough to explore gender identity at a young age, and that this can be scary for those that did not grow up in this kind of environment. However, this new proposed policy would put the safety and wellbeing of transgender children at risk of harassment, abuse, and possibly even assault if it is allowed to be enacted. I could go on and on about these risks, but at the end of the day this is a cheap political stunt for votes at the expense of the lives of real people, children! Do real research, talk to the experts that actually work in the field and make rational choices to help these at risk children not become another statistic.


I support this! Parents need to be involved fully in these decisions.

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I fully support this guidance.  Parents need to be involved with decisions, especially those that could have life-changing impacts on their children.

Ppnjya


Buddha says no.

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Oppose this. I am sick of people’s religion leading our government’s direction. I am not Christian. I do not believe in your religion. Stop forcing Christianity on others. Your religion has been infesting other cultures and religions for hundreds of years - quit it.

”Among the most important messages that Buddhist doctrines within the Lotus Sutra offers on gender is the Buddha’s instruction that one should not make distinctions between man or women, that all phenomena are empty (Peach 2002, 51).”


Protect Emotionally Vulnerable Children and Parental Rights!

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
jim tillman
4067 Richmond Dr
Ethel, LA 70730

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Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />jim tillman
<br />4067 Richmond Dr<br />Ethel, LA 70730<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148672469" width="1" height="1" />


I am strongly opposed.


Do our teenagers have no rights???

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<p>Do our 16,17, and 18 year old ladies have no rights??? They are above the age of consent. They can drive and begin to enlist. This is insanity. Oppose this bill. </p>


OPPOSE - Here’s another person commenting based on RELIGION.

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Every religious based post here should be REMOVED FROM the count of FOR OR AGAINST. THIS IS NOT ABOJT RELIGION. THIS IS NOT A RELIGIOUS ISSUE. IF YOUR COMMENT INVOLVED GOD OR JESUS AS YOUR REASON FOR agreement or opposition - regardless of which - it should be stricken from this.

Someone else’s comment:
“I support Christlike principles, the US Constitution, Governor Youngken, & I support parents rights I support Christlike principles, the US Constition, & parental rights… Praying.”


I strongly oppose this action

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<p>As a friend to trans people who are luckily alive today to share their stories, and as a mental health counselor who specializes in this area, it would be a grave mistake to rescind policies that have helped trans and nonbinary kids feel safer in their school environments. We know that youth who are fed, youth who are connected socially, and youth that are supported for being themselves in educational settings do better overall. They are able to be productive in their homes, in their communities, and can contribute to their future selves in being best prepared for their career pursuits. It would directly reduce the emotional and psychological functioning of my clients and of many not-out TGNC youth, and would greatly increase the risk of suicide in this population. 41% of adult trans people surveyed (US Trans Survey) have attempted suicide. These suicide attempts can and have happened as youth. As a mental health provider, and as a parent, I can’t imagine what rescinding the current policy would do to tax our already-taxed mental health infrastructure, and to leave little hope in a place where they should be protected. These attempts and completed suicides are of peoples’ children - wanted, loved, desired. Dreams in the making for a life of their own. I vehemently and strongly oppose this policy for what harm it will impose on those most vulnerable. It is egregious and ignorant to think that framing this as “restoring parents rights” will do anything but increase suicide risk and completion, and if it were your child, I hope you understand the weight of that potential event. No one, no family should have to lose someone to suicide when there is help and hope and easy, kind, respectful things that can and are being done to protect youth in their educational environments  </p>


Oppose this

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<p>Strongly oppose this hurtful and discriminatory bill. </p>


Girls are safe at school, trans people ARENT CREEPS

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Trans people just want to use the freaking bathroom NOT CREEP UPON YOUR CHILDREN. If that is your main or only concern then you’ve totally got this whole situation twisted.

easy solution for your clearly transphobic problem - mandate ONLY gender neutral single person bathrooms. SMH smh

no - oppose this.


I support this proposed policy

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<p>The family is the cornerstone of our society; at the leading peak are the parents. Parents have a fundamental right at the state and federal level to direct the care, custody, control and upbringing of their children. This proposed policy maintains parental rights to protect the well-being of their children—I fully support. </p>


Fully support

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Fully support the new policy


Strongly oppose this hurts youth & democracy

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Under the guise of democracy, parental rights, child protection and freedom of speech, Hanover’s School Board AND Youngkin’s proposed policy on trans gender students harms transgender youth, encourages bullies, creates unneeded and unhelpful bureaucracy, disrupts learning, divides us and weaponizes outdated conservative Christian policies that do not reflect America today and that endanger the principle of the separation of church and state.

I was at the HSB meeting—a packed house—when the majority in the audience were obviously opposed to their actions; the board and support staff left the room, without discussion among themselves or input from the audience, came back and reported their “decision.” There was no transparency.  This is not what democracy looks like.


I fully oppose this.


These suicides weren't around until trans

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<p>This is a social contagion. Don't hide behind compassion because you made child mutilation and gender into fashion. </p>


Protect children from ultra left wing nut ideology

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Schools are for math and science not pervert teachers pushing their agendas.


Support keeping girls safe at school. Thank you governor.

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Kids should not be subject to perversion at school.


Support.

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Support. Let's get back to reading, writing, and math!


A paragraph on why this is socially unjust. Oppose this bill.

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The new model policies of 2022 in Virginia are social unjust towards transgender students because they are having their previous rights violated, and they aren’t being recognized for who they are. The rights of trans students to be treated fairly and equally are being violated.

In previous years, the Virginian Human Rights Act stated that everyone is safe of discrimination regardless of any criteria, including gender identity. The new policies and guidelines created by Virginias government are forcing trans students to go by something other than what they identify with, as well as imposing their biological sex unto everything they are a part of, which means they are not safeguarding trans kids from discrimination, and that their rights, this one among others, are being violated. This proves that trans students are being treated in a way that is socially unjust, because rights that apply to everyone, including them, are being violated, since they are not being safeguarded where they live. They are not safe if they express themselves in a way outside of what is required of them, because they face risks of harassment and even legal involvement.

Trans students are not being recognized, as they are told to hide who they are, and simply accept it. In the 2022 Model Policies passed in mid-September, it states that the term transgender is used for kids whose parents specifically requested and told the school that their child does not conform with their biological sex anymore. Repeatedly, in articles talking about the school walkouts in protest, students have said that they are so scared of what this means for them. There are so many kids out there who cannot come out to their parents because of danger, and so many kids who only feel accepted in school where only their teachers and other students know how to refer to them. All of these kids aren’t getting recognized for who they are, because if they don’t get specific approval and consent from their parents to the school, they have to referred to as their biological sex with which they don’t identify with anymore.

In mid-September, the rights of trans students, as well as their recognition of who they are, was taken away by new Model Policies, creating a socially unjust situation that should be fought against.


Yes, let's return to common sense

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Years from now people will look back and wonder why doctors and parents subjected children to child abuse by allowing and encouraging their mental and emotional disorders.  There are only two sexes.  Gender applies to language, not people.  We need to stop living by lies and let children live and learn in innocence and love.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


The Role of a Parent

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How is a parent supposed to raise their child and help them, if key information is withheld from them whether it is good or bad? I support this policy.


Strongly oppose.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Please keep parental rights

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<p>Please ensure policies that keep parent’s rights when dealing with transgender and sexuality issues.  Almost everyone I know feels that kids under 18 must have parent involvement in their decisions.  Under the law, parents are held fully responsible for their children until 18 and therefore should have complete rights to their healthcare decisions.  Parents know their child very well.  Please trust the overall intuition and instincts of moms and dads.  Please keep dignity and morality in our schools.  There is plenty of time after 18 for them to sow their oats and become whomever they would like to be. There are other routes in dealing with toxic parent-child relationships besides stripping the rights and authority of all parents.  A firm balanced line in life is essential to well being. </p>


Fully Support the New Guidelines

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Fully Support the New Guidelines!


Do not do this.


I am strongly opposed.


I am completely opposed.


KEEP WOKE LIBTARDS OUT OF OUR SCHOOLS

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Enough grooming and warping of our children's minds. If they want to change, that's THIER decision when they're old enough. It's NOT the school's job to push a liberal agenda on minors, warping their minds into eventual suicide. Woke liberalism is dangerous and deadly to a child.


upholding the dignity and respect of all public school students/ transgender students

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If upholding the dignity and respect of all public school students is a goal of the transgender policy, it fails. This policy will do harm to the student who are needing to withhold their identity from their parents.They feel safe telling a nurse or counselor at school to be able to be addressed and treated the way they sexually identify. Requiring that the parent be notified of their child's change could get them punished or kicked out of the house. Please allow the student to tell their own parents in their own time. This could be traumatizing for them and may result in more difficulties at school.

To allow them to use their identified bathroom, put in closed stalls or unisex bathrooms.At least allow this much without parental control.

As for sports, trans men could only compete in women's sports once they have completed hormonal transformations. I don't know if that would hold for trans women needing to complete hormonal therapy to be able to compete in men's sports. Parents may need to be in ol ed for doctor visits with the concent of the child.

Sincerely, Virginia Primus (703-407-4693)


Sane policy to protect parental rights

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So grateful that Virginia's new administration is making the integrity of the family a priority. Throughout all of history, including American history, parents have been the primary guardians, caretakers, and educators of their children. COVID lockdowns only reinforced this. Parents and legal guardians have the right to make the best decisions for their children, whose brains and bodies haven't been fully developed and cannot make their own legal decisions and whose school psychologists/educators don't know them as well (hard to know dozens of children as well as the few you gave your DNA to). Consider this story: https://stoplcpscrt.com/the-saga-of-virginia-teen-named-sage-gender-confused-sex-trafficked-family-investigated-for-abuse-for-calling-her-by-her-birthname-school-hid-this/

Children and underage adolescents have the right to be in a space that's safe for them, which means that they should be able to stay overnight or change in locker rooms only with people of their own biological sex. As the Loudoun bathroom rape(s) made all too clear, predators take advantage of ambiguity.


Transgender Policy

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I would like to thank Governor Youngkin for trying to protect our children. I have a granddaughter in her first year of high school in the Henrico area. You can love all people, and still not agree with the way they live, or the things they're doing.  I think it's wrong for boys to be allowed to go in the girls bathroom. This day and time boys don't look like boys. They look like MEN!! I don't want a boy or man in the bathroom with my grandchild. It's scary to even think about. Please stop this Governor Youngkin. Don't let the public decide. You decide, because you know it's wrong. If you have a daughter you can understand what I'm trying to say. Our children learn too much, see too much, and hear too much of the wrong things at our schools. Drugs, guns, knives, fighting. God loves us all, but I'm sure He is very sad looking down seeing what the world He made, has turned into.


I oppose this fully.


This is a terrible policy decision.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Virginia Department of education transgender policy

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I support Gov Youngkin's new policy.


Strongly oppose. Protect trans youth in a safe environment.

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<p>What this proposal fails to consider is that kids may feel comfortable being their authentic selves in a safer school environment. Not all families are supportive. By letting parents dictate gender identity issues, not only are you taking away the students’ rights but you will also be outing students without their permission to unsafe family members. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Barbara Savage
130 Overbrook Rd
Rochester, NY 14624

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Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Barbara Savage
<br />130 Overbrook Rd<br />Rochester, NY 14624<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148668128" width="1" height="1" />


A SANE POLICY FROM GOVERNOR YOUNGKIN

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<p>Governor Youngkin's proposed policies about students who wish to be treated as the other sex make perfect sense.  I would add that all schools should offer some single-occupancy bathrooms. </p>


Opposed to this policy

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I am opposed to the policy as written. It is disappointing that there seems to have been no input from any group that professionally works with the transgender community. It seems solely aimed at singling our trans students out and working against their best interests. There are studies that have shown that when transgender students are supported, there is a decreased rate of suicidal thoughts/actions. For some of these kids, the only support they get is at school, because they are not supported by their family. Kids have to hide who they are from their families because it would be dangerous for them to come out to their family. These kids are being put at an additional risk under the policy that schools have to share information with parents. Federal law already says that these students have the right to use the restroom associated with their identified gender, the state should not be making policies that are in direct opposition to this. No one is "forcing" or "encouraging" students to become transgender, we are only trying to provide support to those who are.


This is a terrible policy.

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This solves a problem that doesn't exist and needlessly targets and demonizes trans or queer kids. Not surprised to see this kind of stupid and mean policy from a Party with nothing to offer the people of Virginia.


If you think this is about furries, you are delusional.

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These proposed policies will not give parents any more rights than they already have; it will make the process of ostracizing or removing their children from their homes much easier. I believe it is too idealistic to assume that ALL parents will love and care for their child upon learning that they are transgender. Many already do not. Homelessness amongst trans youth is a serious and very relevant issue. Allowing trans minors to express themselves is not "indoctrination." If the parents do not know, it is likely because the child does not feel safe coming out to them. I find it sickening that NOWHERE in this policy does it mention how schools can bridge any communication gaps between parent and child in a way that does not demonize the child for being trans or the school system for not forcing them to de-transition. It also does not stress to parents that if they are supportive of their child's transition, they can advocate for their child's chosen name and pronouns; that alone proves that these policies do not have the child's wellbeing in mind. It is not the school's responsibility to out their students. All students, no matter their age, will not feel safe coming out if they know that a teacher or administrator HAS to tell their parents anything, let alone something that could get them thrown out of their house. Governor Youngkin is enacting policies that will only lead to more suicides and homelessness among on our youth. Any parent who wishes to remove a transgender student healthy avenues (Such as independent reading books) for expressing their own gender identity or sexual orientation should be prepared to homeschool their child and prevent them from having any contact with LGBTQ+ children.


I fully oppose this.