2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents . . .

Susan T. Muskett, J.D., Pro-Family Women

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Pro-Family Women strongly supports Governor Youngkin’s revised Model Policies of dealing with “transgender” issues in Virginia schools.

The previous 2021 Model Policies sanctioned the dividing of children against their parents, and infringed on parental rights. They even went so far as to openly instruct schools on how to keep a child’s parents in the dark. In contrast, the proposed 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools show greater respect for all students and reinforces the primary role of parents in the education of their children.

When one considers the influence of the internet and peer contagion, it is alarming that the 2021 Model Policies, issued under the previous administration, allowed students themselves to be the arbiters of their identity at school. Regardless of maturity and most likely lacking full knowledge of what they were doing, students could call the shots – they could announce their new identity without any substantiating evidence, they could choose which pronouns they wanted to be addressed by, they could enter the corresponding locker room – and all without the student’s parents’ knowledge if the student so requested.

The previous 2021 Model Policies even instructed school divisions that they may develop a plan whereby personnel use the student’s legal name and sex-related pronouns when communicating with the student’s parents but address the student with a different name and pronouns at school.

Policies that drive a wedge in the relationship between a child and his or her parents, causing alienation, are not in the best interests of any children, much less children who are expressing a new and rapid onset of gender dysphoria.

In contrast, the newly proposed 2022 Model Policies protect parental rights by requiring the commonsense approach of a written instruction from a parent if a child wants to be addressed by a new name and pronouns. Counseling regarding gender dysphoria cannot take place without notifying the child’s parents and giving the parents an opportunity to be involved. A school division should never have a written policy that encourages or instructs teachers to keep gender-related information from parents, and the new Model Policies make that clear.

Pro-Family Women further appreciates that the 2022 Model Policies do not compel school personnel and students to address students using language that violates their constitutional rights, and that the use of locker rooms and overnight travel accommodations shall be based on biological sex, except as required by federal law.

Governor Youngkin’s 2022 Model Policies are a commonsense approach. They call for compassion, reasonable accommodations, protect all students, and ensure that parents are informed.


Support The Gov

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<p>And the sacred role of parents  </p>


Keep Trans Kids Safe!

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Every child should have the privacy and respect afforded to them by the gender they identify with. To treat ANY human in ANY other way robs them of dignity and autonomy over their own body. No one comes out as trans to abuse bathroom policy or endanger others using the facilities. All kids (including Trans kids) deserve to urinate, defecate, and menstruate without other people getting involved.


Support

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


STRONGLY oppose

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Not all children have safe homes. This will put many LGBT+ young people in extreme danger. Please listen to doctors, educators psychologists, and trans people - do not pass this legislation


greater trans agenda=more trans=more suicide. stop trans agenda=stop suicide=love

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for the love of trans support this bill and stop suicides.


OPPOSED

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<p>I am heartily opposed to this proposed policy. My child is transgendered and just like any sub-set of people, most transpeople are kind, generous, sweet, moral and ethical; however, there are some that are not. Just as with any group. For us to make this a policy, we are ostracizing them further from society and saying to them that who they are is not ok, wanted or appreciated. Also, to require trans people to legally change their gender could do them harm if it is before they are ready to do so, or out of a potentially abusive household. </p>


Strongly Oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose the proposed legislation change. This legislation would substantially harm an incredible number Virginia's youth. </p>


Oppose

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I strongly oppose advancing a policy that would target trans and nonbinary kids for bullying and mistreatment just because of who they are. You are going to see a rise in suicide rates. This is unnecessary, cruel and disgusting and I cannot believe we have reverted so far back on how we treat HUMAN beings!!!


This is SO wrong. Have you discussed with any trans students? Get to know who you are mis-treating.

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<p>You need to meet with trans students- get to know whom you are mistreating. This is so very wrong- </p>


Oppose!  Keep our Trans kids safe


Terrible policy

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I strongly oppose this guidance. I am a newer resident to VA and will actively vote against any official supporting it and will canvas for others to do the same.


Strongly Oppose

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Under the Virginia Human Rights Act, conduct that violates any Virginia or federal law governing discrimination on the basis of gender identity is an unlawful discriminatory practice.


Thank you for proposing truth and common sense.

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<p>It is encouraging to see the governor and his administration being bold in this new proposal. Common sense is evident in these proposed policies, and they return our public schools to the good rule and discipline that parents expect. I read the policies and see a proposed environment free from discrimination. I read policies that are bold in their declaration of truth. This proposal provides safe and effective guidelines to help students and parents navigate adolescence with compassion and love. God bless Virginia Public Schools, and Thank you! </p>


Begin with "What Can We Do To Help?"

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Family, very broadly defined in the very best of situations is a multi-generational team game. A government entity at any level however has no idea what gender dynamic and reactions are at play on each micro basis with parents, siblings and others slightly removed from the every-day scene – at a time exerting the most stress on many or all; and particularly the child themselves.

Many kids even without gender issues encounter enough problems and challenges reaching adult-hood. Any Virginia rule or regulation tilting the scales to purposely or even inadvertently harm them such as this, rather than help them, is just plain wrong.

Do not assume that everyone growing up, coming out, whatever, will or has enjoyed a Norman Rockwell painting with ideal layers of a happy family support group. Sometimes the problem begins and is coming from within the living quarters . .  called Mom or Dad.

When Virginia starts all over again to come at this with – “What can we do to help?” we will come out far removed from and in a better place than this.


Opposed - "parental rights" is just a dog whistle used by those who want to hurt trans students

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"Parental rights" is nothing more than a dog whistle used by transphobes to muster support for a despicable cause: creating an environment in schools that tries to deny the existence of trans students by refusing to recognize their gender. Such a policy can never fully succeed, because you cannot simply bully or shame a transgender person into being cisgender, but even in the process of failing said policy can cause immense harm to the trans students it targets, in some cases even driving them to suicide or exposing them to dangerous abuse from others.

If you support transgender students and all trans people in general, I would strongly recommend that you stop letting the bigots supporting this policy hide behind the vaguely benign sounding slogan of "parental rights." This is especially true if you are someone who speaks on these issues from any kind of highly visible platform, such as a journalist or reporter.

Please don't regurgitate the deliberately euphemistic terms that transphobes use to make their views seem more palatable in mainstream settings and instead press them to state their views in more specific ways until the transphobic hatred which motivates support for this policy and others like it becomes undeniably obvious to any decent person. Keep repeating this process as frequently as necessary, especially in public settings if you feel safe doing so, until the phrase "parental rights" becomes widely known as the toxic rallying cry for transphobia which it has become thanks to Glenn Youngkin and his supporters.


Strongly support parental right

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Support Youngkin and parents


Strongly support parental right


Strongly support parental right

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Support Youngkin and parrnts


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I strongly oppose the governor and Department of Education's proposed guidance. All it does is target young trans and nonbinary kids and threaten their wellbeing. It will directly put children in danger of being kicked out of their homes because of their gender identity by forcing schools to \"out\" children to unsupportive parents. Schools are for education, not for discrimination."}">I strongly oppose the governor and Department of Education's proposed guidance. All it does is target young trans and nonbinary kids and threaten their wellbeing. It will directly put children in danger of being kicked out of their homes because of their gender identity by forcing schools to "out" children to unsupportive parents. Schools are for education, not for discrimination.


Outcomes all bad

This policy, which forces teachers and counselors to nonconsensually "out" transgender students to their parents, regardless of the child's wishes or perceived danger from such outing, is very clearly going to result in the following negative outcomes for the state: increased domestic violence, increased minor homelessness, added burden on foster care and other social services, and increased school dropout rates. I also predict that many teachers and counselors will resign rather than be forced to implement these policies, exacerbating the educator shortage we are already suffering.Additionally, denying children the right of gender expression is going to negatively impact their mental health, even in cases where their families are supportive. Given the national lack of mental health professionals, this is almost certainly going to result in an increase in minor suicide statistics as well.Gov. Youngkin's goal of re-centering school decisions with the students' parents is to the clear and immediate detriment to the students themselves, and to Virginia in the long run.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"This policy, which forces teachers and counselors to nonconsensually \"out\" transgender students to their parents, regardless of the child's wishes or perceived danger from such outing, is very clearly going to result in the following negative outcomes for the state: increased domestic violence, increased minor homelessness, added burden on foster care and other social services, and increased school dropout rates. I also predict that many teachers and counselors will resign rather than be forced to implement these policies, exacerbating the educator shortage we are already suffering.\n\nAdditionally, denying children the right of gender expression is going to negatively impact their mental health, even in cases where their families are supportive. Given the national lack of mental health professionals, this is almost certainly going to result in an increase in minor suicide statistics as well.\n\nGov. Youngkin's goal of re-centering school decisions with the students' parents is to the clear and immediate detriment to the students themselves, and to Virginia in the long run."}">This policy, which forces teachers and counselors to nonconsensually "out" transgender students to their parents, regardless of the child's wishes or perceived danger from such outing, is very clearly going to result in the following negative outcomes for the state: increased domestic violence, increased minor homelessness, added burden on foster care and other social services, and increased school dropout rates. I also predict that many teachers and counselors will resign rather than be forced to implement these policies, exacerbating the educator shortage we are already suffering.

Additionally, denying children the right of gender expression is going to negatively impact their mental health, even in cases where their families are supportive. Given the national lack of mental health professionals, this is almost certainly going to result in an increase in minor suicide statistics as well.

Gov. Youngkin's goal of re-centering school decisions with the students' parents is to the clear and immediate detriment to the students themselves, and to Virginia in the long run.


Trans rights are human rights.

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Protect the children by opposing. I strongly oppose! Gender identity saves lives!


This will harm children STRONGLY OPPOSE

Marie Harison Childrens Doctor, Mother, Trans Woman

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I can't belive a straight cis man gets to decied my childs fate. He has no idea the pain trans and non-binary youth face. I remeber when I was in middle school, I was in the early stages of my transition. I was bullied, beaten and denied to go into bathrooms by TEACHERS. If this becomes a law so many children will be, hurt and tramautized I never want anyone to go though what I went through. I am still in therapy because I went though and what I am currently going though for being trans. I refuse to belive cis men our saying what our children should be and do. it's crap. I am also a doctor so many tran and nonbinary children i work with have feelings of depression from law and people LIKE THIS. stongly oppose if you support this you are the reason so many children are in therapy, cutting themselfs or even suicide. I should know, I tried to overdose on my antidepressaints and anxiety meds. I almost took my own life. SO  YOU


Oppose

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My husband and I definitely oppose Youngkins transgender school policy. This kind of discrimination is unthinkable. We have a relative who is transgender and hate to think of how damaging these types of policies are to him and others. Such a shame there are those who cannot be open minded enough to accept human beings for who they are. Absolutely horrific...


Red Handed

I am a product of Virginia K-12 Education, 2003-2016. Throughout those years, there existed little to no such protections for transgender students.I came to the realization that I was trans in my second year of middle school. I did not learn from banned books or mouth, I found my resources on my own. I learned about my history and my community. There will still be trans students. We have and always will, exist in these public spaces whether someone likes it or notWhat we WILL have, is the blood of children staining this administration's hands. It has been scientifically proven numerous times, that trans people (specifically trans youth) have some of the highest rates of suicide in the country. You will be responsible for that rising number. You will be to blame for the rise in bullying, the rise in mental health crisesThis is not my Virginia. My Virginia is for Lovers. This is not love. I wholeheartedly OPPOSE.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am a product of Virginia K-12 Education, 2003-2016. Throughout those years, there existed little to no such protections for transgender students.\n\nI came to the realization that I was trans in my second year of middle school. I did not learn from banned books or mouth, I found my resources on my own. I learned about my history and my community. There will still be trans students. We have and always will, exist in these public spaces whether someone likes it or not\n\nWhat we WILL have, is the blood of children staining this administration's hands. It has been scientifically proven numerous times, that trans people (specifically trans youth) have some of the highest rates of suicide in the country. You will be responsible for that rising number. You will be to blame for the rise in bullying, the rise in mental health crises\n\nThis is not my Virginia. My Virginia is for Lovers. \nThis is not love. I wholeheartedly OPPOSE. "}">I am a product of Virginia K-12 Education, 2003-2016. Throughout those years, there existed little to no such protections for transgender students.

I came to the realization that I was trans in my second year of middle school. I did not learn from banned books or mouth, I found my resources on my own. I learned about my history and my community. There will still be trans students. We have and always will, exist in these public spaces whether someone likes it or not

What we WILL have, is the blood of children staining this administration's hands. It has been scientifically proven numerous times, that trans people (specifically trans youth) have some of the highest rates of suicide in the country. You will be responsible for that rising number. You will be to blame for the rise in bullying, the rise in mental health crises

This is not my Virginia. My Virginia is for Lovers.
This is not love. I wholeheartedly OPPOSE.


I OPPOSE the VDOE guidance on trans youth

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am a clinical psychologist and have worked with youth and mental health for more than 2 decades.  The proposed policies seek to erase trans and non-binary youth from the classroom and create a hostile and dangerous school environment. The restrictions prevent youth from being their true selves while emboldening others to commit more egregious forms of discrimination.  This all leads to a toxic internal and external environment that not only prohibits thriving but also causes emotional damage, little by little.  The rates of suicidal ideation, suicide and sexual assault for our trans youth exceed those for other groups of kids.  This truly is a matter of life and death."}'>I am a clinical psychologist and have worked with youth and mental health for more than 2 decades. The proposed policies seek to erase trans and non-binary youth from the classroom and create a hostile and dangerous school environment. The restrictions prevent youth from being their true selves while emboldening others to commit more egregious forms of discrimination. This all leads to a toxic internal and external environment that not only prohibits thriving but also causes emotional damage, little by little. The rates of suicidal ideation, suicide and sexual assault for our trans youth exceed those for other groups of kids. This truly is a matter of life and death.


Expect the suicide rate to skyrocket if this is adopted.

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I am a licensed clinician who has worked with children and adults for over 10 years.  I work with and affirm LGBTQ+ persons, as well as those who do not affirm those persons for their personal and/or religious reasons.  The state is saying that by protecting trans youth with language and policies, they are taking away the right of parents to raise and educate their children.  This is a fallacious argument.  If Sally's child wants to be called Tim instead of Tina and use he/him pronouns, that has nothing to do with Sam's child and what the preferences are there.  School can be a safe space for trans youth, so they can focus on their education and taking the next steps to being a successful adult.  On the other hand, if trans youth are forced to submit to constant oppression and disregard for who they are, the suicide rate increases significantly.  Imagine if your child who identifies as Christian was forced to be called a Muslim over and over by overreaching policies such as this one.  There would not be enough space to contain all the comments screaming that the state has no right to choose the identity of their child.  And they would be correct - which is why I deeply oppose this document and all the policies within on both a personal and professional level.


Oppose

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I oppose Governor Younkins set-backs for trans and non-binary youth!


Please consider civil rights for ALL people

Let us not repeat the errors of our former general assembly members.“In 1956, Virginia's General Assembly adopted a policy of "Massive Resistance," using the law and courts to obstruct desegregation and to not comply with changes which were being made nationwide in response to Brown v. Board of Education.” https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/dbva/items/show/207The choice is up to you, but I think we all can agree that treating children, ALL children, with respect and dignity regardless of how they show up to school. Drafting policy to allow for another wave of “massive resistance”, this time against trans youth, should be viewed as an affront to the guiding principles of this nation. If the governor’s draft policy passes, you and your colleagues, will be held responsible for continuing VAs long infamous legacy of the assault on the civil liberties of its own citizens. It is time for VA to be better.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Let us not repeat the errors of our former general assembly members.\n“In 1956, Virginia's General Assembly adopted a policy of \"Massive Resistance,\" using the law and courts to obstruct desegregation and to not comply with changes which were being made nationwide in response to Brown v. Board of Education.” \nhttps://edu.lva.virginia.gov/dbva/items/show/207\nThe choice is up to you, but I think we all can agree that treating children, ALL children, with respect and dignity regardless of how they show up to school. Drafting policy to allow for another wave of “massive resistance”, this time against trans youth, should be viewed as an affront to the guiding principles of this nation. If the governor’s draft policy passes, you and your colleagues, will be held responsible for continuing VAs long infamous legacy of the assault on the civil liberties of its own citizens. It is time for VA to be better. \n\n\n\n\n\n"}">Let us not repeat the errors of our former general assembly members.
“In 1956, Virginia's General Assembly adopted a policy of "Massive Resistance," using the law and courts to obstruct desegregation and to not comply with changes which were being made nationwide in response to Brown v. Board of Education.”
https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/dbva/items/show/207
The choice is up to you, but I think we all can agree that treating children, ALL children, with respect and dignity regardless of how they show up to school. Drafting policy to allow for another wave of “massive resistance”, this time against trans youth, should be viewed as an affront to the guiding principles of this nation. If the governor’s draft policy passes, you and your colleagues, will be held responsible for continuing VAs long infamous legacy of the assault on the civil liberties of its own citizens. It is time for VA to be better.


a proposed policy that would require Virginia schools to discriminate against transgender youth,

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This is an attempt to target and bully a minority population within the school population through government by religious and conservative advocates.  This group of children are already excluded from feeling included in most social activities within educational settings by other children.  They are not included in friendship circles and left isolated.  They become loners because they do not fit the accepted profiles of society within or outside the school institution.  Due to constant bullying they are in constant fear of being in any restroom, on the playground or in the cafeteria where they are teased and then are isolated when riding the bus home or dealing with social media. These students and even as they become adults have a tremendously high rate of suicide.  As a former teacher in Virginia I recognize the harm this legislation will do to all students as the government sanctions hate.


I fully oppose this.


Transgender youth

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I 100% oppose the proposed model policy and am sickened by anyone not allowing a child to live their true identity and feel secure, safe and loved by their very own state. All who support Youngkin should be ashamed of this proposed law.


Vehemently Oppose this Legislation

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I vehemently oppose this proposed legislation that will put the lives of transgender and non-binary youth in jeopardy. The research is clear-- supporting transgender youth in schools can save lives (see Trevor Project: 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health).  Twenty percent of transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide in the past year (Trevor Project, 2022) and 28% of transgender youth whose pronouns were not affirmed attempted suicide (Trevor Project, 2020). This is terrifying! There is hope, however, in that affirming schools are associated with fewer suicides (Trevor Project, 2022).  This data alone should stop this legislation in its tracks.

Transgender and non-binary youth often deal with disproportionate levels of abuse at home (Thoma et al., 2021).  The school counseling interns who I teach and supervise repeatedly share stories of how their transgender and non-binary students have expressed that school is the one place that they can truly be themselves and feel safe.  We can save lives, aid in student physical and psychological safety, and secondarily, facilitate student learning by ensuring that this legislation does not move forward.

I implore you, put transgender and non-binary kids' lives first.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I OPPOSE Youngkin's policy regarding trans students in Virginia. I am a retired Virginia teacher and I know how hard school is for transgender students. The new policy will negatively affect the mental health of transgender students, who already face many challenges in our society. I also have a transgender family member, and I truly feel that this policy is being put into place by people who are transphobic. Supporting transgender students does not make other students transgender. But not supporting transgender students increases the likelihood that they will suffer from bullying, stress, and other types. of marginalization. We are a diverse state, and instead of forcing everyone to be the same, how about we celebrate and support the ways we are different? How about looking at the ways we are the same: we all want safety and love, good education for our children, a living wage, health care, and safe neighborhoods. Oppose! Oppose! Oppose this misguided policy! Support Trans Students!"}">I OPPOSE Youngkin's policy regarding trans students in Virginia. I am a retired Virginia teacher and I know how hard school is for transgender students. The new policy will negatively affect the mental health of transgender students, who already face many challenges in our society. I also have a transgender family member, and I truly feel that this policy is being put into place by people who are transphobic. Supporting transgender students does not make other students transgender. But not supporting transgender students increases the likelihood that they will suffer from bullying, stress, and other types. of marginalization. We are a diverse state, and instead of forcing everyone to be the same, how about we celebrate and support the ways we are different? How about looking at the ways we are the same: we all want safety and love, good education for our children, a living wage, health care, and safe neighborhoods. Oppose! Oppose! Oppose this misguided policy! Support Trans Students!


Please don't do this

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Science tells us that a person's brain is wired to be female or male before birth, and in some cases the wiring is opposite to the genetic sex.  It's cruel not to recognize this and allow for it in school policies.  These kids are very likely to be bullied and shunned, and they need affirmation, not official suspicion and official contradiction.  The suicide rate is high, and this proposed policy will make it higher.  School is supposed to be a safe learning environment, but this policy makes it unsafe for trans kids.  Being trans is not something they chose--they were born that way."}">Science tells us that a person's brain is wired to be female or male before birth, and in some cases the wiring is opposite to the genetic sex. It's cruel not to recognize this and allow for it in school policies. These kids are very likely to be bullied and shunned, and they need affirmation, not official suspicion and official contradiction. The suicide rate is high, and this proposed policy will make it higher. School is supposed to be a safe learning environment, but this policy makes it unsafe for trans kids. Being trans is not something they chose--they were born that way.


School Guidance Doc.

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I would like to heartily second Adam P. Ebbin's comment! Furthermore I believe this to be the tip of a nefarious movement starting with the least powerful among us and then graduating to the kind of hate Trump has uncovered among the populace. First students, then minorities!

IS it too much to ask that those in power TRY and walk in another man's shoes? Eliminate the hate, the discomfort from seeing something foreign to you and recognize the humanity in ALL OF US!

Stop siding with the bullies. They too will NOT inherit the Earth!


Revision will do irreparable harm to children

I OPPOSE the proposed revisions.As the parent of a transgender daughter, as well as an ordained Protestant minister and a scholar who has studied children's spirituality and development for more than 3 decades, I know that children's well-being depends upon caring and science-based support for healthy identity formation. When a central institution in their lives such as their school system repeatedly insists that they cannot and will not be seen and respected for who they are and what they need to thrive, that institution causes irreparable harm to their well-being. My daughter, who is now a young adult, benefitted from a supportive independent school culture and now works for a supportive global company. I am thankful that we did not need to monitor and insist on basic respect from her teachers, school staff, and classmates. I know that many families do not have the same experiences, and the mental, emotional, and spiritual toll is one reason that many transgender youth look to suicide as a way of escaping the hurtful judgment and restrictions that guidance such as that proposed by Governor Youngkin would impose. I hope that parents throughout the Commonwealth will stand up for children's healthy development and well-being by saying NO to the proposed changes.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I OPPOSE the proposed revisions.\nAs the parent of a transgender daughter, as well as an ordained Protestant minister and a scholar who has studied children's spirituality and development for more than 3 decades, I know that children's well-being depends upon caring and science-based support for healthy identity formation. When a central institution in their lives such as their school system repeatedly insists that they cannot and will not be seen and respected for who they are and what they need to thrive, that institution causes irreparable harm to their well-being. My daughter, who is now a young adult, benefitted from a supportive independent school culture and now works for a supportive global company. I am thankful that we did not need to monitor and insist on basic respect from her teachers, school staff, and classmates. I know that many families do not have the same experiences, and the mental, emotional, and spiritual toll is one reason that many transgender youth look to suicide as a way of escaping the hurtful judgment and restrictions that guidance such as that proposed by Governor Youngkin would impose. I hope that parents throughout the Commonwealth will stand up for children's healthy development and well-being by saying NO to the proposed changes."}">I OPPOSE the proposed revisions.
As the parent of a transgender daughter, as well as an ordained Protestant minister and a scholar who has studied children's spirituality and development for more than 3 decades, I know that children's well-being depends upon caring and science-based support for healthy identity formation. When a central institution in their lives such as their school system repeatedly insists that they cannot and will not be seen and respected for who they are and what they need to thrive, that institution causes irreparable harm to their well-being. My daughter, who is now a young adult, benefitted from a supportive independent school culture and now works for a supportive global company. I am thankful that we did not need to monitor and insist on basic respect from her teachers, school staff, and classmates. I know that many families do not have the same experiences, and the mental, emotional, and spiritual toll is one reason that many transgender youth look to suicide as a way of escaping the hurtful judgment and restrictions that guidance such as that proposed by Governor Youngkin would impose. I hope that parents throughout the Commonwealth will stand up for children's healthy development and well-being by saying NO to the proposed changes.


These policies are not the solution.

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It is the duty of parents (or any authority) to act in accord with what is right and just: it is an injustice to impose policies that will bring about the psychological, emotional, and physical demise of many innocent children. The foundation of a healthy society is the family and policies like this undermine parental responsibility and authority.


I oppose the Youngkin measure because, guess what, Parents don't always know best.

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Just because parents pay taxes to provide the educational infrastructure doesn't mean that they're qualified to make educational policy. A parent might call themselves a "surgeon", but would you let them operate on your kid? If some parents want to have more control over the policies or curriculum they should look to private institutions that are more beholden to income and profits from directly-paid tuition. Some parents have opposed what they conveniently call "CRT", but which is actually the historical events of our country (however embarrassing or shameful they may be)...in a similar case, I wouldn't want those choosing the whitewashed history of America winning out over the truth. And if the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, with its political ideologue Burbridge having parishes reach out to their members to take political stands (which IMO should challenge tax exempt status for the diocese) to support this measure, then that's enough for me to know that I OPPOSE it.


Oppose

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rolling back a measure to protect some of our most vulnerable kids, parents, and staff is a failure of leadership to recognize progress.


VDOE Model Policies

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Fully support these common sense policies.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"As a counselor-in-training and doctoral candidate at a large public institution in the state, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the guidance being suggested by Gov. Youngkin. A recent study by the Trevor Project found that 45% of LGBTQIA+ youth have strongly considered attempting suicide in the past year, with BIPOC youth reporting even higher numbers. Students who report having a safe and affirming school environment report lower rates of suicide than their peers who report having hostile ones. Furthermore, less than 1 out of 3 transgender and non-binary students report having a safe and affirming home environment - which makes having a safe school environment imperative to their wellbeing. The policies suggested by Gov. Youngkin will put all LGBTQIA+ youth at continued risk for mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicide. Mandating these new policies will harm trans youth. VA should be supporting all students, especially trans students. Schools have an obligation to protect ALL students."}'>As a counselor-in-training and doctoral candidate at a large public institution in the state, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the guidance being suggested by Gov. Youngkin. A recent study by the Trevor Project found that 45% of LGBTQIA+ youth have strongly considered attempting suicide in the past year, with BIPOC youth reporting even higher numbers. Students who report having a safe and affirming school environment report lower rates of suicide than their peers who report having hostile ones. Furthermore, less than 1 out of 3 transgender and non-binary students report having a safe and affirming home environment - which makes having a safe school environment imperative to their wellbeing. The policies suggested by Gov. Youngkin will put all LGBTQIA+ youth at continued risk for mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicide. Mandating these new policies will harm trans youth. VA should be supporting all students, especially trans students. Schools have an obligation to protect ALL students.


Support

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<p>Is it suddenly wrong for parents to raise their children in the way they feel best? I fully support my child's choices, and will stand behind his decision if he ever decides to change how he expresses himself as he matures. However to allow parties outside the family to be the final guidance for a child's decision on anything is absurd. As much as outside parties may disagree with what is taught at home, it is not the place of school personnel to supplant those values unless such values or actions at home endanger the life of the child. A child will resent their parents guidance if others given authority are in support of the child's decisions that are opposed by the family... and drive further divisions into the family unit. </p>


SUPPORT

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<p>I strongly support the Policy! Thank you Governor Youngkin! </p>


These laws will kill children.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I OPPOSE THIS MOVEMENT. I work with LGBTQ+ children and teens and I have whitnessed the difference it makes for students to feel safe and seen by at least one person at school. These children are suicidal because they do not feel safe to be themselves. We have to care more about other’s mental health and lives over our political agenda and opinions. People who are trans and nonbinary are not going away. We cannot erase them. They are beautiful and deserve to feel safe and seen for who they are. I have a very close friend who is trans and they bring so much beauty to my life being authentically themselves. Hatred kills. I will ALWAYS stand up and defend the LQBTQ+ community. I am queer and proud of who I am and who I love."}'>I OPPOSE THIS MOVEMENT. I work with LGBTQ+ children and teens and I have whitnessed the difference it makes for students to feel safe and seen by at least one person at school. These children are suicidal because they do not feel safe to be themselves. We have to care more about other’s mental health and lives over our political agenda and opinions. People who are trans and nonbinary are not going away. We cannot erase them. They are beautiful and deserve to feel safe and seen for who they are. I have a very close friend who is trans and they bring so much beauty to my life being authentically themselves. Hatred kills. I will ALWAYS stand up and defend the LQBTQ+ community. I am queer and proud of who I am and who I love.


Oppose

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I am totally opposed to the Governor's and VDOE new policy


Support

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<p>In total support of changes.  Any hateful narrative needs to be starved out.  I am all for loving thy neighbor, however, this climate has created greedy parents/ guardians who see an opportunity when their child starts to show any sign of wanting to be different.  Media, lawyers and courts feed into it, creating a  total breakdown of societal structure.  Yes, children should feel safe no matter what in schools.  A developing brain can be fragile and wrongly molded.  This code will hopefully bring structure back to schools; resources to help children who need it and a general understanding of both sides.  </p>


I OPPOSE the guidance

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"As a licensed professional counselor and counselor educator with a large public institution in the state, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the guidance being suggested by Gov. Youngkin. A recent study by the Trevor Project found that 45% of LGBTQIA+ youth have strongly considered attempting suicide in the past year, with BIPOC youth reporting even higher numbers. Students who report having a safe and affirming school environment report lower rates of suicide than their peers who report having hostile ones. Furthermore, less than 1 out of 3 transgender and non-binary students report having a safe and affirming home environment - which makes having a safe school environment imperative to their wellbeing. The policies suggested by Gov. Youngkin will put all LGBTQIA+ youth at continued risk for mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicide. Mandating these new policies will harm trans students youth. We should be supporting all students, especially trans students. Schools have an obligation to protect all students."}'>As a licensed professional counselor and counselor educator with a large public institution in the state, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the guidance being suggested by Gov. Youngkin. A recent study by the Trevor Project found that 45% of LGBTQIA+ youth have strongly considered attempting suicide in the past year, with BIPOC youth reporting even higher numbers. Students who report having a safe and affirming school environment report lower rates of suicide than their peers who report having hostile ones. Furthermore, less than 1 out of 3 transgender and non-binary students report having a safe and affirming home environment - which makes having a safe school environment imperative to their wellbeing. The policies suggested by Gov. Youngkin will put all LGBTQIA+ youth at continued risk for mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicide. Mandating these new policies will harm trans students youth. We should be supporting all students, especially trans students. Schools have an obligation to protect all students.


Educator OPPOSE

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As an educator, I’ve seen the impact of affirming student identity. I’ve seen students who have felt welcomed by me open up when they need to talk to a trusted adult. Forcing children to hide their identity will cause an increase in suicide and depression, and forcing educators to report identities will result in a breakdown of trust.

I am vehemently opposed to Youngkin’s plan, in the interest of student success and wellbeing.


OPPOSE the 2022 proposed model policy

I OPPOSE the 2022 proposed model policy. DO NOT REMOVE the 2021 model policy that provides guidance in assisting Virginia's local education agencies in adopting a comprehensive set of policies that will protect transgender and nonbinary students from bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools and create inclusive and affirming learning environments.The proposed 2022 model policy dehumanizes transgender and nonbinary students and discriminates against their human rights. The 2022 model policy harms children.OPPOSE. OPPOSE. OPPOSE.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I OPPOSE the 2022 proposed model policy.  DO NOT REMOVE the 2021 model policy that provides guidance in assisting Virginia's local education agencies in adopting a comprehensive set of policies that will protect transgender and nonbinary students from bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools and create inclusive and affirming learning environments.\nThe proposed 2022 model policy dehumanizes transgender and nonbinary students and discriminates against their human rights.  The 2022 model policy harms children.\nOPPOSE. OPPOSE. OPPOSE."}">I OPPOSE the 2022 proposed model policy. DO NOT REMOVE the 2021 model policy that provides guidance in assisting Virginia's local education agencies in adopting a comprehensive set of policies that will protect transgender and nonbinary students from bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools and create inclusive and affirming learning environments.
The proposed 2022 model policy dehumanizes transgender and nonbinary students and discriminates against their human rights. The 2022 model policy harms children.
OPPOSE. OPPOSE. OPPOSE.


My son just wants to be accepted for who he is

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I STRONGLY OPPOSE the 2022 draft policies. My son declared his gender as male two years ago — and he did so emphatically and enthusiastically. My wife and I fully supported him from that day forth, and he blossomed in the months that followed. He says of that time that he finally felt accepted for who he has always been on the inside. In our district and at his specific schools, he has been validated by the acceptance and support by teachers, counselors, and administrators. However, several of them cited VDOE’s 2021 model policies as their guide for how they could best support him. I know that replacing the 2021 policies with the proposed discriminatory draft will put him in danger as he enters middle school next year. I also know that the proposed discriminatory draft will serve as a harmful and misinformed guide for the reception that future trans students will receive from their own schools. It is infuriating to me that the current administration would try to inject fear and discrimination, where the current policy has done nothing but help and support a significant population of students statewide."}'>I STRONGLY OPPOSE the 2022 draft policies. My son declared his gender as male two years ago — and he did so emphatically and enthusiastically. My wife and I fully supported him from that day forth, and he blossomed in the months that followed. He says of that time that he finally felt accepted for who he has always been on the inside. In our district and at his specific schools, he has been validated by the acceptance and support by teachers, counselors, and administrators. However, several of them cited VDOE’s 2021 model policies as their guide for how they could best support him. I know that replacing the 2021 policies with the proposed discriminatory draft will put him in danger as he enters middle school next year. I also know that the proposed discriminatory draft will serve as a harmful and misinformed guide for the reception that future trans students will receive from their own schools. It is infuriating to me that the current administration would try to inject fear and discrimination, where the current policy has done nothing but help and support a significant population of students statewide.


Oppose

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This guidance is, quite frankly, going to kill children. It's going to cause severe damage to trans children, and that damage is going to kill trans children, and it's going to make a lot of other children sad when their friends are dead to suicide because the state of Virginia refused to provide a basic standard of care and compassion for trans children.


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,
Katha Comeaux
5150 Teresa Dr
Milton, FL 32583

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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 />Katha Comeaux
<br />5150 Teresa Dr<br />Milton, FL 32583<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148702720" width="1" height="1" />


Oppose

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I fear for the mental health of the youth of Virginia. What a shameful policy to advance a personal political agenda.


Oppose

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The proposal endangers vulnerable youth and has no place in public schools. Students have a right to feel safe at school and to be recognized for who they are


Oppose Youngkin’s Guidelines

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I am the proud mother of a trans male child and sincerely oppose Youngkin’s guidelines for trans students. The current guidelines are appropriate and supportive of the stresses trans children face in school. Implementing Youngkin’s suggestions would be taking a huge step back in the the great advances we have made in the state regarding the rights of trans kids in schools.


I OPPOSE


STRONGLY SUPPORT Governor Youngkin’s New Policy!!!

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Protect our Children and Parental rights! I suppose this new policy  by Governor Youngkin!!!


Oppose

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Protect our youth by giving them safe places to learn and develop instead of ostracizing them.


OPPOSE

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Transgender youth are already at disproportionate risk for bullying, self harm, violence in and outside of the household, dropping out, and suicide. Removing the few protections gender diverse youth have to be able to thrive in a learning environment will harm both transgender and cisgender students alike, and will do nothing to positively benefit the learning environment, or the lives of students in VA.  Transgender people exist at every intersection of society- creating a fabricated educational environment in which trans identity is not recognized will deprive your young people of the invaluable social skills they will need to interact with trans people in the real world and in professional settings. \nI implore you to keep the protections that exist for gender diverse students. Theyre relying on you!"}'>Transgender youth are already at disproportionate risk for bullying, self harm, violence in and outside of the household, dropping out, and suicide. Removing the few protections gender diverse youth have to be able to thrive in a learning environment will harm both transgender and cisgender students alike, and will do nothing to positively benefit the learning environment, or the lives of students in VA. Transgender people exist at every intersection of society- creating a fabricated educational environment in which trans identity is not recognized will deprive your young people of the invaluable social skills they will need to interact with trans people in the real world and in professional settings.
I implore you to keep the protections that exist for gender diverse students. Theyre relying on you!


Oppose Student Policy

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I have a non-binary child who will be adversely affected by the proposed changes to Student Policy. Please don’t do this.


Opposed and yes, I did read both documents

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If you truly cared about all students and children, some attempt would have been made to address the needs of all children, including transgender and gender nonconforming. Instead this document is political pandering. It literally does nothing except strip away protections of vulnerable children and rile up the extremists in the state. Constructive ways to fix it: Include training requirements for teachers, provisions for involving social services or other resources when a teacher is concerned for the well-being of a student, real solutions to the restroom/locker room issue.

Governor Youngkin, please stop sowing division and make some attempt to contribute positively to our state before you launch your presidential campaign. At least pretend to care about the people of Virginia.


I SUPPORT trans students in school

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am a parent of 3 children, who have either  graduated or are currently students in APS. I know several families in my community who have trans or non-binary children. While these kids are fortunate to have supportive family, it has been a tough experience for many of them. Bullying and mental health issues are common. It is horrible to think of how these kids would suffer if their school is the only safe place for them, and it is taken away by Governor Youngkin’s new policy. Please show some compassion to vulnerable kids and make me proud to say I live in a state that values diversity and respect to all people."}'>I am a parent of 3 children, who have either graduated or are currently students in APS. I know several families in my community who have trans or non-binary children. While these kids are fortunate to have supportive family, it has been a tough experience for many of them. Bullying and mental health issues are common. It is horrible to think of how these kids would suffer if their school is the only safe place for them, and it is taken away by Governor Youngkin’s new policy. Please show some compassion to vulnerable kids and make me proud to say I live in a state that values diversity and respect to all people.


Oppose guidance which diminishes schools ability to support ALL students

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"As a retired former teacher and business owner I oppose the proposed guidance which interferes with a teachers ability and duty to help each student build skills AND self confidence. Part of that duty is modeling and teaching skills that students need to function in the wider working world. Learning to accept others and work together is an essential skill in college, trade school and any job in the country.  This guidance allows schools to model discrimination and the marginalizing of classmates. Young people today are, or need to be, aware of differences in gender, gender presentation and sexual orientation in order to be good citizens and good employers and employees.  Gender fluid, Trans and gender exploring young people have ALWAYS been a part of school populations. Some bravely brought that part of themselves to school and needed protection and support from bullying. Do we in Virginia prefer that educators become the bully?"}'>As a retired former teacher and business owner I oppose the proposed guidance which interferes with a teachers ability and duty to help each student build skills AND self confidence. Part of that duty is modeling and teaching skills that students need to function in the wider working world. Learning to accept others and work together is an essential skill in college, trade school and any job in the country. This guidance allows schools to model discrimination and the marginalizing of classmates. Young people today are, or need to be, aware of differences in gender, gender presentation and sexual orientation in order to be good citizens and good employers and employees. Gender fluid, Trans and gender exploring young people have ALWAYS been a part of school populations. Some bravely brought that part of themselves to school and needed protection and support from bullying. Do we in Virginia prefer that educators become the bully?


Governor and most staff are real dangers to our rights - recall elections needed

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"The ONLY way that this will stop is a recall election and removal of most of the current staff.  Its no longer just an opinion, the fact is human rights are being reduced in Virginia and the rest of the country due to people like the elected governor of our and several other states.  The DOE Secretary has flip flopped on most of what made them a reasonable force; they wont return phone calls on the issues especially CRT."}'>The ONLY way that this will stop is a recall election and removal of most of the current staff. Its no longer just an opinion, the fact is human rights are being reduced in Virginia and the rest of the country due to people like the elected governor of our and several other states. The DOE Secretary has flip flopped on most of what made them a reasonable force; they wont return phone calls on the issues especially CRT.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Strongly Support the Govenor

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Parents have the final say on how their children are educated.  Life altering decisions are not at the discretion of a public school teacher.  Students having falling behind in scores for math, science, and English compared to their peers in other countries.  Focus needs to be on educating and not indoctrinating kids. LGBT+ has no place in the classroom.  That conversation is for the parents and their kids


My child deserves protection

Dear Youngkin administration,I am writing to ask you to reconsider your policy change re trans youth in public schools. My child is trans, and she has had to push through so many barriers just to attend school. She is a gifted learner but her anxiety, especially during the pandemic, has made it difficult for her to access the academics that will allow her to meet her potential. The changes that you are proposing would make it even more difficult for her. Many students like mine are at serious risk of failure and dropping out of school if they cannot use the bathroom and they are at risk of being outed, misgendered, and bullied. Virginia does not need to punch down at vulnerable kids.Thank you,A mom

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Dear Youngkin administration,\nI am writing to ask you to reconsider your policy change re trans youth in public schools. My child is trans, and she has had to push through so many barriers just to attend school. She is a gifted learner but her anxiety, especially during the pandemic, has made it difficult for her to access the academics that will allow her to meet her potential. The changes that you are proposing would make it even more difficult for her. Many students like mine are at serious risk of failure and dropping out of school if they cannot use the bathroom and they are at risk of being outed, misgendered, and bullied. Virginia does not need to punch down at vulnerable kids.\nThank you,\nA mom"}'>Dear Youngkin administration,
I am writing to ask you to reconsider your policy change re trans youth in public schools. My child is trans, and she has had to push through so many barriers just to attend school. She is a gifted learner but her anxiety, especially during the pandemic, has made it difficult for her to access the academics that will allow her to meet her potential. The changes that you are proposing would make it even more difficult for her. Many students like mine are at serious risk of failure and dropping out of school if they cannot use the bathroom and they are at risk of being outed, misgendered, and bullied. Virginia does not need to punch down at vulnerable kids.
Thank you,
A mom


Oppose

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Politics has no place in personal choices and lives, gender or otherwise such as pregnancy. People are born that way based on DNA molecular divisions so who are PEOPLE to dispute the development otherwise!


I OPPOSE the guidance!


Oppose

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I oppose this guidance!! Children should feel safe and comfortable at school and elsewhere. If they choose to disclose their sexual orientation to a teacher or counselor, then they should not be forced to disclose that information to anyone else. Children are already not protected from gun violence, why expose to them from possible hatred from their own families?


Please Support Trans Youth

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Trans Youth need our support. They do not need the government meddling in their lives. The Commonwealth should not enact regulations that treat all trans people the same and that discriminate against Trans youth. All studies indicate that trans youth are much more likely to have a happy, healthy life when they are supported. Thank you.


This Sunday School Teacher Supports Trans Kids

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I OPPOSE the guidance and support trans and nonbinary youth. I'm a white, 55-year-old, home-owning, Christian middle-class mom. I'm a Sunday School teacher. But if you think those labels mean that I don't stand up for trans and nonbinary kids, you're wrong. I know three trans/non-binary kids who have grown up in my church, one in my neighborhood, and two in my children's former high school. They are brave, strong, intelligent young people whom I am proud to call my friends. I need these beloved young people to feel safe at school and to know that their fellow community members will protect them and stand up for their rights. I need these young people to stay in Virginia and contribute their gifts and talents to our state and not run away from persecution. And I have one more label: I'm a voter. This policy is loathsome and I strongly oppose it."}">I OPPOSE the guidance and support trans and nonbinary youth. I'm a white, 55-year-old, home-owning, Christian middle-class mom. I'm a Sunday School teacher. But if you think those labels mean that I don't stand up for trans and nonbinary kids, you're wrong. I know three trans/non-binary kids who have grown up in my church, one in my neighborhood, and two in my children's former high school. They are brave, strong, intelligent young people whom I am proud to call my friends. I need these beloved young people to feel safe at school and to know that their fellow community members will protect them and stand up for their rights. I need these young people to stay in Virginia and contribute their gifts and talents to our state and not run away from persecution. And I have one more label: I'm a voter. This policy is loathsome and I strongly oppose it.


Oppose

As a pediatrician with expertise in gender-affirming medical care for transgender and gender-diverse youth, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the guidance. I have 5 years of experience providing medical care to transgender and gender-diverse youth and their families and I am concerned that these new guidelines will negatively impact the physical and mental health needs of an already vulnerable population of students.These guidelines DO NOT align with the experiences of trans youth, medical recommendations (see American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement "Ensuring Comprehensive Care and Support for Transgender and Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents), or research. We know from our experience with trans youth and from research (see Russell et al. "Chosen Name Use is Linked to reduced Depressive Symptoms, Suicidal Ideation, and Suicidal Behavior Among Transgender Youth") that support around gender identity and using a youth's correct name and pronouns improves mental health outcomes. On the other hand, stigma contributes to worse mental health outcomes, such as depression and thoughts of self harm (see Veale et al. "Enacted Stigma, Mental Health, and Protective Factors Among Transgender Youth in Canada"). The dissemination and news coverage of these guidelines will contribute to worse mental health (see Pham et al. "How Are Transgender and Gender Non-conforming Youth Affected by the News? A Qualitative Study"). Supporting all students should be inclusive of trans students. We can and should be doing a better job to protect trans youth. We need to listen to trans youth. This is the only way to create inclusive guidelines. These guidelines are harmful and their lives are at stake.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"As a pediatrician with expertise in gender-affirming medical care for transgender and gender-diverse youth, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the guidance. I have 5 years of experience providing medical care to transgender and gender-diverse youth and their families and I am concerned that these new guidelines will negatively impact the physical and mental health needs of an already vulnerable population of students.\n\nThese guidelines DO NOT align with the experiences of trans youth, medical recommendations (see American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement \"Ensuring Comprehensive Care and Support for Transgender and Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents), or research. We know from our experience with trans youth and from research (see Russell et al. \"Chosen Name Use is Linked to reduced Depressive Symptoms, Suicidal Ideation, and Suicidal Behavior Among Transgender Youth\") that support around gender identity and using a youth's correct name and pronouns improves mental health outcomes. On the other hand, stigma contributes to worse mental health outcomes, such as depression and thoughts of self harm (see Veale et al. \"Enacted Stigma, Mental Health, and Protective Factors Among Transgender Youth in Canada\"). The dissemination and news coverage of these guidelines will contribute to worse mental health (see Pham et al. \"How Are Transgender and Gender Non-conforming Youth Affected by the News? A Qualitative Study\"). \n\nSupporting all students should be inclusive of trans students. We can and should be doing a better job to protect trans youth. \n\nWe need to listen to trans youth. This is the only way to create inclusive guidelines. These guidelines are harmful and their lives are at stake. "}">As a pediatrician with expertise in gender-affirming medical care for transgender and gender-diverse youth, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the guidance. I have 5 years of experience providing medical care to transgender and gender-diverse youth and their families and I am concerned that these new guidelines will negatively impact the physical and mental health needs of an already vulnerable population of students.

These guidelines DO NOT align with the experiences of trans youth, medical recommendations (see American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement "Ensuring Comprehensive Care and Support for Transgender and Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents), or research. We know from our experience with trans youth and from research (see Russell et al. "Chosen Name Use is Linked to reduced Depressive Symptoms, Suicidal Ideation, and Suicidal Behavior Among Transgender Youth") that support around gender identity and using a youth's correct name and pronouns improves mental health outcomes. On the other hand, stigma contributes to worse mental health outcomes, such as depression and thoughts of self harm (see Veale et al. "Enacted Stigma, Mental Health, and Protective Factors Among Transgender Youth in Canada"). The dissemination and news coverage of these guidelines will contribute to worse mental health (see Pham et al. "How Are Transgender and Gender Non-conforming Youth Affected by the News? A Qualitative Study").

Supporting all students should be inclusive of trans students. We can and should be doing a better job to protect trans youth.

We need to listen to trans youth. This is the only way to create inclusive guidelines. These guidelines are harmful and their lives are at stake.


Northern is gone and so is 2021 guidance. Now parents are in charge!

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Thankfully there are some adults in the room now making decisions.


Support the policy

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<p>Parents are the only ones who should make the decisions for their children in this situation.  </p>


Proposed guidelines not based on recognized professional advice. Reinstate 2021 DOE guidelines!

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I am a mother of three daughters who completed primary school in Virginia. I have two of our four grandchildren still enrolled in Virginia public schools. I am a retired registered nurse.

I strenuously object to the proposed 2022 guidelines for Virginia Public Schools relating to gender diversity. They will most likely cause significant harm to students who are transgender. They will, in fact, disrespect those students. The worst potential outcome is that they will result in parents who are not accepting of their children being informed of gender diversity issues. This could well endanger these students.

As a parent and grandparent and nurse, I know too well that parents do NOT always know best relative to their children. I was blessed to recognize needs and for my children to have benefitted from professional treatment WITHIN the school environment. Even then, they were subject to bullying by fellow students.

These guidelines appear to be directed toward approval by parents who do not recognize that gender is separate from physical anatomy. They will result in discrimination against a population that already is under threat. The guidelines do not cite professional sources as did the 2021 guidelines. I strongly recommend the proposed 2022 guidelines be withdrawn and the 2021 guidelines be reinstated.


Act out of Love Instead of Fear

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Kaitlyn M. Herrera respectfully submits comment in opposition to the proposed 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools (the “2022 Model Policies”). These policies are not only in direct violation of state and federal law, but they also deny the rights of students, parents, and school personnel to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every child.

All children have the right to learn in a safe and supportive environment that respects their humanity and upholds their dignity. However, the 2022 Model Policies send a dangerous message that some students do not belong, and in fact, should not exist.

Discovering oneself is an important part of growing up, and every child deserves to have support and guidance as they learn about themselves, their family and friends, and their place in the world.

Studies have consistently shown that policies like those proposed result in more frequent and escalating harassment, discrimination, and physical violence toward trans and nonbinary students. These policies also lead to significantly higher rates of depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts relative to cisgender students. The consistent misgendering of a student has a profoundly negative impact on their ability to learn in the classroom. Contrary to what is recommended in the proposed model policies, consistent use of a student’s affirmed name can reduce suicidal behavior and suicidal ideation. Furthermore, denying trans and nonbinary students from using facilities that match their gender identity increases the prevalence of sexual assault victimization4 . The evidence is clear – students will experience higher rates of sexual assault, peer victimization, and suicide if policies like these are adopted in Virginia.

Kaitlyn M. Herrera recognizes that sexual and domestic violence is linked to other forms of harm and that supporting equality and respect for ALL people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, is integral to creating a Virginia free from sexual and domestic violence.

The 2022 Model Policies will significantly and irreparably harm Virginia’s students and families and as antiviolence advocates; we firmly oppose their adoption.


This Is Wrong

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"While I can't imagine what it's like to be trans, I have friends who are and I can tell you from my interactions with them that it is a struggle by itself.  When I was in high school over 20 years ago, it was a struggle and it still is today.  Adding these additional hurdles and threats to the process these young people have to go through is only going to make it worse and will most certainly increase the likelihood that these individuals will harm themselves.  What we should be doing instead is supporting their process and helping them walk through life in an open and loving way.  There is no reason anyone should have to hide who they are.  As a gay man, I hid myself out of fear for many years.  After coming out and living life in the open, there is such a weight lifted.  No one should have to carry that weight.  I'm not a political person.  I try to support whomever is in office.  But this is dangerous at many levels and must stop."}">While I can't imagine what it's like to be trans, I have friends who are and I can tell you from my interactions with them that it is a struggle by itself. When I was in high school over 20 years ago, it was a struggle and it still is today. Adding these additional hurdles and threats to the process these young people have to go through is only going to make it worse and will most certainly increase the likelihood that these individuals will harm themselves. What we should be doing instead is supporting their process and helping them walk through life in an open and loving way. There is no reason anyone should have to hide who they are. As a gay man, I hid myself out of fear for many years. After coming out and living life in the open, there is such a weight lifted. No one should have to carry that weight. I'm not a political person. I try to support whomever is in office. But this is dangerous at many levels and must stop.


Oppose

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As a parent of a transgender child, I highly oppose this. Shame on you.


Oppose

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I oppose the guidance. I support trans and non-binary kids and believe this new guidance is discriminatory and will lead to more bullying of children.


If you call me by my furry name that would be purrrrfect


I OPPOSE this so called "guidance." It is dangerous for children

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"As the mother of a transgender child, an educator with over 25 years of experience, and as a person who believes in protections from hate crimes, this so called \"guidance\" will lead to pain and suffering for people in Virginia. This \"guidance\" is actually a thinly veiled attempt to persecute people in this commonwealth. At a time when the mental health of our young is at epidemic proportions, what governor or state would knowingly pile on to the stress, anxiety, and depression our children already face? It is abuse, pure and simple."}'>As the mother of a transgender child, an educator with over 25 years of experience, and as a person who believes in protections from hate crimes, this so called "guidance" will lead to pain and suffering for people in Virginia. This "guidance" is actually a thinly veiled attempt to persecute people in this commonwealth. At a time when the mental health of our young is at epidemic proportions, what governor or state would knowingly pile on to the stress, anxiety, and depression our children already face? It is abuse, pure and simple.


Oppose

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This policy is harmful, bigoted, and backward. It does not represent Virginians. I oppose this proposal and beg you not to move it forward.


Furries lives matter!

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In you were a nice purrrrson you would oppose.


Oppose

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I oppose this guidance. This will get kids killed. Invest in and support trans and queer kids to become amazing trans and queer adults.


Strongly Support Governor Youngkin

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Thank you Governor Youngkin for all you are doing for our state. Keeping parents out of their child's medical decisions is wrong on so many levels. Thank you for standing up for parents and the children that aren't old enough to make life-changing decisions. These children aren't old enough to go down the path that will forever alter their being. One day children are writing letters to Santa, and then shortly thereafter the left wants them to make decisions to have life-changing surgeries. It's flat out wrong. Hold the line. Virginians are fully behind you!!


Protect our LGBTQ children! Retain & implement the 2021 guidance.

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<p>All children deserve the right to grow up in an environment where they feel safe, respected and free from harm in any way, including bullying or harassment. Sexuality is not binary. Medical science supports a variety of gender expression. If we believe in "life, liberty, and the persuit of happiness," we should ensure that everyone, especially our children. </p>


Congratulations Governor Youngkin- We elected you to restore parental rights. Do the right thing.

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Love you Governor Youngkin


School Is A Safe Space for ALL STUDENTS

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Schools are meant to be safe spaces for ALL our children. Instead of focusing on keeping their bodies safe by regulating and increasing background checks for guns (which are literally killing our kids in school) you have chosen to further endanger their lives by forcing them further into the closet. Eighty percent of transgender youth consider suicide with 40% of them attempting it, this is with having a safe space at school to be themselves without a teacher/counselor "outing" them to their parents before they are ready. By taking away that safe space you will increase the suicide rates and foster care children. If a child has not chosen to come out to their parents, that is between them and their parents, it's not the place of the school to interfere by forcing them out. The majority of children who have not come out to the parents have chosen not to do so for fear of retaliation (physical, mental, and emotional abuse) as well as having been told by said parents that if they come out, they will be on their own (now you will have a huge influx of foster care/homeless children).

This new policy will endanger our children.

 Also, it is an unfair ask of our overtaxed teachers, which will result in the loss of good teachers in our education system. They are there to educate and protect their students, this policy flies directly in the face of that obligation.


Oppose

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I oppose this bill. So hateful in the name of "God". SMH make it make sense.


Oppose. Furries have rights too.

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Stop discriminating against furries. Furry rights are human rights!


protect LGBTQ+ youth

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I oppose the proposed policy reversing evidence-based best practice trans-inclusive policies and requiring Virginia’s schools to discriminate against transgender youth.


OPPOSE ON THE STRONGEST TERMS

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What the state proposes to do here goes against the best advice of every major medical organisation on this planet. It will harm already-vulnerable kids, and it will cost lives. For what? To appease the base political insticts of bigots? To “save” children from living in a larger, more accepting world?

In a time of global crises and risinf authoritarianism, the world needs serious solutions to out actual problems, not this performative nonsense.


Trans Students Deserve Protection

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The proposed 2022 Model Policies are incredibly insensitive to the needs of transgender students. As written, they would cause great harm to the safety and well-being of these children.

Children are distinct entities from their parents, with their own bodies, beliefs and identities. As such, they must have their rights protected by law and institutions. Childhood should be a low-stakes time for people to experiment with different identities, styles, and presentations and learn what fits them best, instead of being shoved into a particular gender pigeonhole. But students often do not have the support of their parents in doing so. Schools should be a safe place for these kinds of experiments, with confidentiality and respectful support required from staff and teachers. Not all bullies are students.

I am asking that these policies be reconsidered and revised, with the needs of trans students given higher priority than the needs of transphobic parents.


I OPPOSE the guidance

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I OPPOSE the guidance. I cannot understand how targeting a vulnerable population for political gain is something good for Virginia. Makes no sense at all. Based your policies on good governance, not bigotry.


Oppose. Furries have rights too.

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Stop discriminating against furries. Furry rights are human rights.


Opposed

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<p>The vulgarity of attacking for political purposes a marginalized group, and in this case minors, is offensive in the extreme. I oppose any policy or legislation designed to cause distress to transgender youth. </p>


Thank you Gov. Younkin!

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<p>Thank you for giving a parent rights to their own children. We are their primary protectors and care givers. </p>


Trans Students are WELCOME & LOVED

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I am a private educator who works with students of all demographics, and I believe that any policy that singles out trans students as a problem that needs to be solved is a worse problem itself. All students have the right to an education and all educators have the responsibility to love and support all the children in their charge. It is abhorrent to decide that students should either hide their true selves or face punishments. Trans students exist, have always existed, and will continue to exist. They deserve the exact same childhood and education as their cisnormative peers."}'>I am a private educator who works with students of all demographics, and I believe that any policy that singles out trans students as a problem that needs to be solved is a worse problem itself. All students have the right to an education and all educators have the responsibility to love and support all the children in their charge. It is abhorrent to decide that students should either hide their true selves or face punishments. Trans students exist, have always existed, and will continue to exist. They deserve the exact same childhood and education as their cisnormative peers.


OPPOSE

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Anti-trans policies have no place in Virginia's schools. Studies have shown that 82% of transgender individuals have considered suicide, and from 30% to 50% of transgender and nonbinary teenagers have even attempted suicide. School policies that \"out\" transgender or nonbinary individuals, require them to be misgendered, and refuse to allow them to be called by the names they choose will only do more harm to an already vulnerable community. Going to school should be about learning and preparing yourself for the future, not having your identity constantly dismissed or fighting to be respected. The Virginia Department of Education must reject these policies and affirm Virginia schools as a safe place of learning for all Virginians."}">Anti-trans policies have no place in Virginia's schools. Studies have shown that 82% of transgender individuals have considered suicide, and from 30% to 50% of transgender and nonbinary teenagers have even attempted suicide. School policies that "out" transgender or nonbinary individuals, require them to be misgendered, and refuse to allow them to be called by the names they choose will only do more harm to an already vulnerable community. Going to school should be about learning and preparing yourself for the future, not having your identity constantly dismissed or fighting to be respected. The Virginia Department of Education must reject these policies and affirm Virginia schools as a safe place of learning for all Virginians.


OPPOSE

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I urge Virginia to support trans rights for all ages, including children. Psychology research shows that children develop their sense of self and gender at a very young age. Research also shows explicitly that supporting trans and non-binary youth in such simple ways like accepting who they are, allowing them to use their preferred restroom, and participating in the sports teams of their choice drastically reduces their chance of suicide and improves their mental health. Please consider the facts and don’t buy into fear-mongering and misinformation that says that we shouldn’t exist or have rights. We deserve equal access to pursue life, liberty, and happiness, starting in grade school."}'>I urge Virginia to support trans rights for all ages, including children. Psychology research shows that children develop their sense of self and gender at a very young age. Research also shows explicitly that supporting trans and non-binary youth in such simple ways like accepting who they are, allowing them to use their preferred restroom, and participating in the sports teams of their choice drastically reduces their chance of suicide and improves their mental health. Please consider the facts and don’t buy into fear-mongering and misinformation that says that we shouldn’t exist or have rights. We deserve equal access to pursue life, liberty, and happiness, starting in grade school.


OPPOSE

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Stop treating us like vermin.


I oppose this guidance

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I support trans and non-binary kids being welcome and respected in school. I oppose Gov. Youngkins guidance!


Leave those kids alone

I'm new to Virginia. And it seems like America in miniature. Ocean, mountains, big cities, farmland, and everything in between. But as diverse as this state is, it's incredulous that one term governors can come in and completely undo progress made by previous administrations that benefit children. I find the republican party pushing their medieval ideas and their interpretation of morals and religion onto everyone hypocritical. Pro life. But only while in the womb and a cisgendered straight white healthy male with money. The Virginia Values Act bans discrimination against LGBTQ people in places of public accommodation, which includes educational institutions like public schools. This means that schools must offer a safe and equal learning environment to all students, teachers, and staff, including those who are LGBTQ.The 2021 policies allow trans and non-binary youth to be safer from bulllying, harassment, and discrimination at the hands of their peers, teachers, and school staff and administrators. It also guarantees that supports are in place to allow all youth, including trans and non-binary youth, to have access to an equal educational experience.These children should have the right to be themselves. No one knows them better. When supported there are less suicides and better mental health. And that radiates to their entire class, school, and community. Anything that hinders our children should be opposed. It's not the government's business how people want to live. Leave these children alone. Going through this plan to dismantle equal rights and protections to everyone is a mistake. Many of these children will be voting adults real soon. And they are not going to forget.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I'm new to Virginia. And it seems like America in miniature. Ocean, mountains, big cities, farmland, and everything in between. But as diverse as this state is, it's incredulous that one term governors can come in and completely undo progress made by previous administrations that benefit children. I find the republican party pushing their medieval ideas and their interpretation of morals and religion onto everyone hypocritical. Pro life. But only while in the womb and a cisgendered straight white healthy male with money. \n\nThe Virginia Values Act bans discrimination against LGBTQ people in places of public accommodation, which includes educational institutions like public schools. This means that schools must offer a safe and equal learning environment to all students, teachers, and staff, including those who are LGBTQ.\n\nThe 2021 policies allow trans and non-binary youth to be safer from bulllying, harassment, and discrimination at the hands of their peers, teachers, and school staff and administrators. It also guarantees that supports are in place to allow all youth, including trans and non-binary youth, to have access to an equal educational experience.\n\nThese children should have the right to be themselves. No one knows them better. When supported there are less suicides and better mental health. And that radiates to their entire class, school, and community. Anything that hinders our children should be opposed. It's not the government's business how people want to live. Leave these children alone. Going through this plan to dismantle equal rights and protections to everyone is a mistake. Many of these children will be voting adults real soon. And they are not going to forget. "}">I'm new to Virginia. And it seems like America in miniature. Ocean, mountains, big cities, farmland, and everything in between. But as diverse as this state is, it's incredulous that one term governors can come in and completely undo progress made by previous administrations that benefit children. I find the republican party pushing their medieval ideas and their interpretation of morals and religion onto everyone hypocritical. Pro life. But only while in the womb and a cisgendered straight white healthy male with money.

The Virginia Values Act bans discrimination against LGBTQ people in places of public accommodation, which includes educational institutions like public schools. This means that schools must offer a safe and equal learning environment to all students, teachers, and staff, including those who are LGBTQ.

The 2021 policies allow trans and non-binary youth to be safer from bulllying, harassment, and discrimination at the hands of their peers, teachers, and school staff and administrators. It also guarantees that supports are in place to allow all youth, including trans and non-binary youth, to have access to an equal educational experience.

These children should have the right to be themselves. No one knows them better. When supported there are less suicides and better mental health. And that radiates to their entire class, school, and community. Anything that hinders our children should be opposed. It's not the government's business how people want to live. Leave these children alone. Going through this plan to dismantle equal rights and protections to everyone is a mistake. Many of these children will be voting adults real soon. And they are not going to forget.


Support Transgender Youth!

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I am an educator and an ally of LBGTQ people. It is vitally important that school be an emotionally and physically safe place for students. I support the 2021 policy protecting the rights of transgender students in Virginia schools. I urge the VDOE to REJECT the proposed policy changes that would strip away those protections.