It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I stand with Trans people. </p>


I fully oppose this

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Stop trying to frame this as involving parents. You are going to cause harm to these kids, who are already at a higher likelihood of suicide. First it was trans student athletes, and now you're going after one of the most unprotected groups. How dare you. </p>


Strongly oppose.


I am strongly opposed.


Strongly opposed to this harmful policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Only pass this if you want to increase the suicide rate


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Do not harm trans children.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I oppose this fully.


Do not do this.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Fully SUPPORT


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


I am completely opposed.


Overwhelming Opposition to proposed Model Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I just sent this as an email to the Department of Education:

I am outraged to know that Governor Youngkin wishes to essentially eradicate the measures acknowledging and protecting individuals who identify as transgender or non-binary in our schools.

Professionally, I am a private music teacher. I In the last 5 years, I have had at least 7 (more than 25% of my student population) private students navigate this particular identity crisis. As you might know, teens devoted to the arts tend to examine themselves before the broader population of adolescents.  They wind up courageously leading the charge for social change. A residual consequence of the Governor’s Model Policy would be a set back for, yet again, the Arts.

Please don’t send us back to the Dark Ages.

Laura Halick

Music/Singing Teacher

Mother of 2 artistic daughters

Fairfax, Virginia


I fully oppose this.


Unacceptable

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This is absurd. We live in 2022. </p>


This updated model policy will put children in danger

<!DOCTYPE html>

The model policies on the privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents in Virginia’s public schools is a dangerous policy with a disingenuous title.  This will put more children in harm’s way due to domestic abuse and increase the incidence of suicide among kids and teens.  Many young people who are questioning their gender identity consider suicide if they conclude that they are gender nonconforming or trans, but cannot safely discuss it with their parents.  In these cases, a supportive teacher and school system can be a lifeline for them.  Additionally, it is a sad fact that some parents will abuse a child they perceive to be gender nonconforming or trans.  Exposing these vulnerable children to such negative outcomes is unconscionable, and has no place in a state with a slogan of “Virginia is for Lovers.”

I will be urging my state senator and state delegate to do whatever they can to blunt or reverse this model policy, should it move forward.


Very Responsible and Responsible...

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>It's unreasonable to parents are to be ok with males using a females restroom...PERIOD!!! Sickening tbh...Furthermore, we shouldn't in society participate in delusional and facial lies.  </p>


No pedophiles allowed


New Policy is detrimental to the student

<!DOCTYPE html>

A parent has a right to help decide the child's Education, Safety and Fair treatment in schools. They do not have a right to choose whether their child's "orientation" is A or B. A lot of student's only escape from overbearing or abusive family is the school system. Students who can be themselves without worry or abuse are students who learn the best. We need our schools to provide a space where kids can learn and be themselves in an open and safe way.

Only in one notion this Policy is correct, schools aren't here to raise our kids. Yet it goes on to counter this notion, it wants schools to act as an extension of the parents. But schools are here to educate, instruct, and provide options to the students. The student themselves determine what to do with this knowledge. THE STUDENT ALONE DECIDES WHO THEY ARE! This VA administration was a mistake, but we will fix it by voting next election.


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I highlight problems in Section V Development, Paragraph C:

"The First Amendment forbids government actors to require individuals to adhere to or adopt any particular ideological beliefs. Practices such as compelling others to use preferred pronouns is premised on the ideological belief that gender is a matter of personal choice or subjective experience, not sex. Many Virginians reject this belief."

        Some Virginians might reject this "belief". However, many Virginians accept this fact.

       2.  "Additionally, the First Amendment guarantees religious freedom and prohibits compelling others to affirm ideas that may be contrary to their personal religious beliefs."

      You do not have the right to compel others to affirm your beliefs. Trans people exist regardless of anyone's religious beliefs. They have the right to be themselves and to attend school in safety and peace.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


Virginia Achs student thoughts

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a Virginia Alexandria city student and a cousin of a trans youth I strongly disagree with this bill. I have always believed that school should be a place that is safe for students and growing up everyone told me that it was a safe place. Students are now scared. No one should be scared to go to school and to get a basic education. Whether or not someone is transgender or just prefer different pronouns shouldn’t make their education difficult to get or make school an unsafe environment. How someone wants to be identified as shouldn’t concern someone else. At this point it’s not just politics and getting a good reputation for your party it is just flat out discrimination and disrespectful. You are just going over the line with this bill. No one should be scared to go to school and you are making everyone feel unsafe transgender or not. Whats next classrooms for girls and classrooms for boys? Only female teachers? Girls can only wear dresses and skirts and boys can only wear pants and shorts? I sure hope not. It is 2022. I should be proud of everything this generation is doing and what we don’t have ti go through, but I’m not at all I’m actually very upset. we don’t live in the 1900s anymore. It is 2022. I really hope everyone thinks this through and change this. Again people shouldn’t be scared to go to school. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Fully oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I see this as a transparent attempt to legitimize discrimination and fear-mongering against some of our most at risk and vulnerable students.

Do not support at all!


I oppose this fully.


I oppose the proposed regulations

<!DOCTYPE html>

This proposed set of regulations is Governor Youngkin's dog whistle to right wing radicals in his base. He hopes this will help position him for a presidential run. I suppose he can hope but thinking people will see right through this nonsense.

I am strongly opposed to everything in the proposed regulations. They will do nothing but hurt trans kids who are already vulnerable and often in fragile mental health. Recognizing a child's own sense of who they are and supporting it doesn't cost anything and doesn't hurt anyone. There is absolutely no reason to approve these proposed regulations.


I fully oppose this

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I fully oppose this. </p>


Strongly OPPOSED

<!DOCTYPE html>

This proposed policy is hateful. Trans and nonbinary youth need to be protected, supported, and affirmed, not forcibly "outed". Prohibiting staff from using trans and nonbinary kids' affirming name and pronouns and prohibiting their access and participation in activities consistent with their gender identities is wrong. It will harm already vulnerable kids. Do NOT enact this policy.


I strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Trans children are being used a political pawns and scapegoats. These policies protect no one and will subject an already maligned group of children--yes, children--to invasions of privacy and additional bullying and harassment.  </p>


I fully support this policy!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support this policy and I support Governor Youngkin's efforts to put parents back in charge of their own children.


I strongly oppose this guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a former Virginia resident and educator, i strongly oppose this guidance as it would cause great harm to trans youth and no benefit to anyone else. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


Strongly oppose the measure

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly oppose this. Schools are meant to enable children to grow beyond the scope of their upbringing. Parents already have the choice to opt out of using public services. If a few parents want to protect their children from knowing the extent of freedom that is available to them as Americans, let them stay home rather than let them stifle the speech and actions of the rest of us, our children, and our teachers.


I strongly oppose.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible decision. I strongly oppose.


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Strongly oppose.


Hello Reddit


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I am completely opposed.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a Virginia citizen and a transgender person, I moved here because I believed it was safer for my human rights to happiness and dignity than my home state. Growing up a transgender kid in a transphobic, unaccepting home and school made me almost take my own life multiple times. Policies like these that put transgender students IN DANGER will cause children to DIE, either from their own hand or by their abusive parents. I personally know many of my friends who were afraid to go home every night to their parents, in case they found out they were queer or trans, and serious harmed if not killed them. If you believe in protecting children, then give them spaces to explore their feelings and identities without shame and harm. If you are afraid of children being "convinced" to be transgender, then allow them spaces where it's okay to be fluid and be different. Forcing conformity ONLY hurts. I am absolutely disgusted at the idea that we would ever put children in such DANGEROUS situations, as forcing them to be OUTED and potentially HARMED. I STRONGLY OPPOSE this legislation.


Strongly oppose - it is dangerous & irresponsible.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Caring for the safety, upbringing, and education of children should be of utmost importance within our schools and communities - this policy does the opposite. The goal of these policies is to shame, silence, and deny the existence of trans people. This policy change is inherently dangerous. Children deserve better. Schools should be a safe space for ALL children. Schools should be dedicated to creating an environment in which children learn and grow. This policy attempts to force the hands of teachers/school administrators to create and uphold a dangerous environment for children. I am vehemently against this policy.


I fully oppose this.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Agreed

<!DOCTYPE html>

It’s so ridiculous that this is even a topic of discussion, but that’s the bassackwardness of today’s society - glorifying and enabling a mental disorder, gender dysphoria.


Strongly opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy has me concerned for the safety of the trans youth in the state.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


This guidance appears to be intentionally misleading

Model Policy G.3 states: "Students shall use bathrooms that correspond to his or her sex, except to the extent that federal law otherwise requires. See Grimm v. Gloucester CountySchool Board, 972 F.3d 586 (2020) "
In Grimm v. Gloucester County, the fourth circuit ruled that requiring trans students to use bathrooms that correspond to their 'sex' violated Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the equal protection clause of the Constitution. Whoever wrote this document must have known that, and still wrote a model policy that violates it.
This is among other issues with this policy. Accommodating trans students at school is the best way to keep them alive.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Model Policy G.3 states: "Students shall use bathrooms that correspond to his or her sex, except to the extent that federal law otherwise requires. See Grimm v. Gloucester County
School Board, 972 F.3d 586 (2020) "

In Grimm v. Gloucester County, the fourth circuit ruled that requiring trans students to use bathrooms that correspond to their 'sex' violated Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the equal protection clause of the Constitution. Whoever wrote this document must have known that, and still wrote a model policy that violates it.

This is among other issues with this policy. Accommodating trans students at school is the best way to keep them alive.


100% in favor of new Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank God for Governor Youngkin and his courage to stand up to the radicals who use bullying tactics to dissuade people from stating obvious truths.  There is absolutely nothing anti-anybody or anti-anything in these policies.  They are simple guidelines for treating students and parents with respect while focusing on education in our schools.


I oppose this fully.


This is a terrible policy decision...

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>...that's an attempt at an "end run" around the will of the people as voted on by the VA Legislature. The Governor is attempting to force social policy that was rejected by the Legislature and the voters.</p>


I am strongly opposed.


Fully support this


Deeply, morally opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy is revolting.


Transgender Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly oppose. All persons need to have safe places to learn and grow. All students should feel safe from bullying and discrimination while in school.


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Strongly opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

This proposed action targets vulnerable children for political purposes, it must be rejected.


Agree with proposed rules!

<!DOCTYPE html>

I agree with the proposed rules for transgender students. Parents should have the say, not schools. Schools are for learning, not trying to push others beliefs on students. You are male or female...end of discussion!


I strongly oppose the proposed "Model Policies for the treatment of Transgender Students"

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This policy endangers transgendered and questioning youth who are already vulnerable and are also a protected class. Moreover, it is poor policy that invites litigation under Title IX, no matter one's opinion, ideology, or theology regarding gender identity. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I'm opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Making children unable to be comfortable in their own skin leads to suicide. Please show me you value human lives by not preventing these children from being themselves </p>


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Jesus specifically commands you to stop.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Love your neighbor as yourself and place no commandment before this.

-Mark 12:31


Strongly oppose.


This is a horrible policy.  Strongly oppose.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This will harm trans children, and is going backward in making Virginia a safe, inclusive and healthy place.  </p>


Trans Kids Matter!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am a teacher in Northern Virginia and I have many trans and non-binary students. These proposed policies are detrimental to the mental health and overall well-being of these students. The policies are clearly not meant to provide support to families who do have trans/non-binary students or else it would be easier for families to change student pronouns or names for schools.  Requiring the legal documents provides undue burden on supporting families. This pilicy just alianiates children who already do not feel supported by society. Additionally, should I not call any Jonathan's John without permission? Bobby and Robbie instead of Robert? This also provides more burden on teachers who are already overwhelmed, overworked, and undersupported. </p>


I fully oppose this.


This is psychologically harmful to children to discriminate like this

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am a mental health counselor in Virginia and I can easily say that this policy will make children feel unsafe and make it more difficult for them to ask for help for mental health issues. It will open up schools to increased lawsuits when it inevitably leads to increased suicides, bullying, and general discrimination by the schools against students. </p>


Do not do this.


I categorically oppose this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

These proposed changes to the Virginia DOE policies will endanger trans youth and all other students. They are internally inconsistent and blatantly discriminatory. I oppose all elements of this proposal. Trans students should not be forcibly outed to anyone they do not wish to be out to. Some kids may lose housing as a result of being forcibly outed. Trans students should not have to endure even more in the endless barrage of being misgendered in their lives. School is a place to learn. Let trans kids learn in peace. Their lives are already hard enough and school may be one of the few places they can achieve success or peace - do not rob them of it. The overwhelming majority of data shows unambiguously that supporting and affirming trans kids (using their correct pronouns i.e. the ones they choose, allowing them to see positive representations of trans people, access to affirming medical treatment such as counseling and hormones as the standard practice with all patients as determined by doctors etc) is strongly correlated with better mental health outcomes. This means decreased depression, increased happiness, and critically a drop in suicidality. As a population extremely vulnerable to harassment, discrimination, and outright violence - trans kids and people need as much protection as possible. Any amount of research will show that what I say here is true. If you are reading this you are probably an adult who knows how to use a library or at the very least google scholar. Go and find what prestigious medical associations say about protecting trans people. Seriously, go and find out yourself. read through the data and learn that we are normal people who need to be supported not attacked.

If you do not explicitly work to defend marginalized children, then you have no honor. If the Virginia BOE decides to go through with this proposal and explicitly discriminate against marginalized children then it is not an institution that deserves respect or regard. If you adopt this proposal, children will die. The people of Virginia demand that you stop politicizing the lives of marginalized children and let them learn in peace. Halt this proposal immediately.


I am strongly opposed.


This policy is harmful to children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This policy is harmful to children and conflicts with guidance from doctors and social workers. </p>


Opposed!!


Model policies Transgender students


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


Stronly Approve!

Barbara, grandmother raising a grandchild

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am thankful that you have given parents their right to control what their children learn. Our kids deserve to be educated not groomed. However, the whole public education system needs a total overhaul! Why are teachers being pushed out and cannot find subs or have teachers aides? Why are public schools teaching fluff instead of true history?? Our public education system is failing our children! They cannot read or write. My granddaughter was so far ahead of her class and after seeing what they are teaching, I pulled her out of public school. I am on a fixed income and have sacrificed everything so she will have the BEST education and that definitely doesn't come from public school. Schools are shortstaffed and are in big trouble in SW Virginia. It is a shame that the DOE doesn't do a better job for our children.


Lesbian mobster here, I fully support this.


I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Liberal Gay Mafia is coordinated attacking this board

<!DOCTYPE html>

Guidance Document Change: Every day, throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, educators and school leaders work to ensure that all students have an opportunity to receive a high-quality education. As a part of that work, educators strive to meet the individual needs of all students entrusted to their care, and teachers work to create educational environments where all students thrive. The Virginia Department of Education (the “Department”) recognizes that each child is a unique individual with distinctive abilities and characteristics that should be valued and respected. All students have the right to attend school in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying. The Department supports efforts to protect and encourage respect for all students. Thus, we have a collective responsibility to address topics such as the treatment of transgender students with necessary compassion and respect for all students. The Department also fully acknowledges the rights of parents to exercise their fundamental rights granted by the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution to direct the care, upbringing, and education of their children. The Code of Virginia reaffirms the rights of parents to determine how their children will be raised and educated. Empowering parents is not only a fundamental right, but it is essential to improving outcomes for all children in Virginia. The Department is mindful of constitutional protections that prohibit governmental entities from requiring individuals to adhere to or adopt a particular ideological belief. The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees religious freedom and prohibits the government from compelling speech that is contrary to an individual’s personal or religious beliefs. The Department embarked on a thorough review of the Model Policies Guidance adopted on March 4, 2021 (the “2021 Model Policies”). The 2021 Model Policies promoted a specific viewpoint aimed at achieving cultural and social transformation in schools. The 2021 Model Policies also disregarded the rights of parents and ignored other legal and constitutional principles that significantly impact how schools educate students, including transgender students. With the publication of these 2022 Model Policies (the “2022 Model Policies”), the Department hereby withdraws the 2021 Model Policies, which shall have no further force and effect. The Department issues the 2022 Model Policies to provide clear, accurate, and useful guidance to Virginia school boards that align with statutory provisions governing the Model Policies. See Code of Virginia, § 22.1-23.3 (the “Act”). Significantly, the 2022 Model Policies also consider over 9,000 comments submitted to the Department during the public comment period for the 2021 Model Policies.


strongly oppose


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose.


I am completely opposed.


I oppose this fully.


Support


I fully oppose this.


Strongly opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

I'm curious Mr. Youngkin, did you speak with any trans children and young adults before drafting this plan of yours? It does not have their best interests at heart. It discriminates and identifies a person in a way that will only cause harm. To misgender someone who identifies a certain way that is unacceptable to the parents and therefore can't get the formal name change is to take away the individual's basic human rights.

I question why you are doing this? Why this intrusion into a person's private identity when instead you could be addressing the global problem of climate change or the national problem of mass shootings. But no, you are fixated on how a child identifies for gender. Truly disappointing.


bill


Transwoman wanker

<!DOCTYPE html>

I love FCPS policy that allows me to shower with girls in the locker room showing off my wang. I also encourage the girls to touch it. No luck so far.


Don’t do this

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is going to hurt queer kids, if not kill them. Preventing a child from transitioning doesn’t stop them from being trans, but it does hurt them. Kids should be given freedom to safely explore who they are and how they exist in this world. It’s not freedom of speech to be allowed to misgender them or deadname them. It’s disrespectful.


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


I strongly oppose this

<!DOCTYPE html>

Following through with this will bring further harm to trans children. I strongly oppose this and am disappointed that this is hidden behind the facade of "empowering parents" when it simply makes children's lives harder.


Stop bullying trans kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

Students need to feel safe in their school and community. This policy does the opposite. As a parent, I am against it. As a taxpayer and voter, I question why we are bullying 4,000 of 1.2 million  Virginia students.


Do not do this.


Model policies --Transgender

<!DOCTYPE html>

All persons need to have safe places to learn and grow. All students should feel safe from bullying and discrimination while in school.


I support this, thank you!


This is a terrible policy decision.


Strongly Opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

This guidance document and change to the model policies will hurt transgender and non-binary youth. I am wholeheartedly opposed to the 2022 Model Policies.


I am a pediatrician. This is a disastrous policy idea. Unsafe for children.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a pediatrician. This is a disastrous policy idea. Unsafe for all children, not just trans.

Oppose.


Opposed in the strongest possible way

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Absolutely disgusting guidance, you will be actively harming children. </p>


Strongly oppose.


Thank you.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you so much for instituting these policies and safeguarding our children from learning about obscene behavior. The sexual atrocities practiced today are an abomination to God and have no place in the educational system of our state or nation.


I oppose this

<!DOCTYPE html>

 I oppose Gov. Youngkin's new guidelines regarding transgendered students. I want Virginia DOE to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students. Virginia DOE to everything to prevent bullying and harassment, and protect all students' privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information.


I oppose this fully.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Stronly opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Gender identity is a private matter to be discussed between parents, the child and their doctor. Period! </p>


I am strongly opposed.


Strongly SUPPORT


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I fully oppose this.


Do not do this.


I am completely opposed.


Stop the Christian Culture War on Virginia's Youth.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The changes that are being proposed are a draconian misstep that is being driven by those in the Commonwealth that are demanding that Christian dogma and ideology be forced upon those that do not practice Christianity. This is wrong, let alone unconstitutional, to force a specific religious beliefs onto the residents of the Commonwealth that are not Christian. Additionally as soon as some of these proposals are enacted there will be lawsuits and once again the residents of the Commonwealth will be asked again to defend Christianity with our tax dollars. This is also wrong. Please do away with these proposed changes and stop forcing the Christian religion on the citizens of the Commonwealth. </p>


I strongly support this


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


This will harm children

<!DOCTYPE html>

Research overwhelmingly suggests rules such as these harm children. Transgender and homosexual fear-mongering is rooted in hatred, not protection. You should be ashamed.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose.


strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Keep the state off of trans kids decisions.


Strongly Oppose, Let Us Be Kind

<!DOCTYPE html>

I cannot believe that kindness is now a radical, rebellious act. A teacher simply calling their student by their proper name which they identify with, is an act of kindness, not a political standpoint. What is the difference between a student who was named Christopher at birth asking to be called Chris and a student who was named Hannah at birth asking to be called Preston? I am currently a student at James Madison University's College of Education and this proposed policy has been a recurring topic in my education classes. During class discussion, it has been made clear that all of my classmates oppose this policy. And speaking for myself, when I am a teacher, no matter the outcome of this policy, I will be calling my students exactly what they want to be called, no matter what is on their birth certificate. No matter if I lose my job. Why are we, as a country, demonizing kindness? Why does our government want us to be unkind to our young students?


Protect our kids from tranny predators


I strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

For some children school is their safe space where they can be themselves when it is not possible at home. For some children being able to have their teachers validate their identity with their names and pronouns can help make their lives just a bit less depressing. Suicide is one of the major causes of death for those in the LGBTQ+ community, especially trans people, taking away some of the few ways that they can be validated in their identity is horrible. Plus, some kids may not want other children (i. e. bullies) to know about them being trans and having a different name.

Allow these kids to be called what they want by the few people in their lives who may be able to make them feel safe and valid, don’t take this away from them, please.


protect trans kids. stop trying to hurt them.

<!DOCTYPE html>

there is no reason to single out trans kids for abuse by schools, parents and peers, this helps no one and hurts everyone. it's nothing more than state sanctioned abuse of children. it's gross, monsterous and evil.


Strongly against this

<!DOCTYPE html>

This new policy is harmful to trans and non/binary youth. It will drives more and more kids to suicide. What Governor Youngkin and the VDOE is doing is extremely wrong. We cannot stand for this and we will not stand for this


Strongly oppose these repressive policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a pediatric nurse practitioner, I know that all students are undergoing a great deal of stress post pandemic, but those at highest risk are transgender students. The rules proposed, I believe, are not appropriate under HIPPA regulations, and are certainly an assault on a student’s privacy, and could negatively impact their safety and mental health. Children should be called by the names they choose, not the names that the State decrees.  Teachers should not have to report students. This will cause extreme risk to some children. Do not misgender children. They know who they are, and who they need to be, not the Virginia Department of Education. Do not enact these onerous, deadly policies.


Trans Children are already at risk of bullying and depression

<!DOCTYPE html>

Transgender youth are subject to violence based on their gender identity, and suffer substance abuse, homelessness, suicidality, child welfare involvement and other negative outcomes at distressingly higher rates.

We are slowly coming out of a pandemic that has led to staggering rises in mental health concerns among children and teens. Transgender children had statistically higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation before the pandemic: around half of transgender youth consider suicide, and a third attempt it.

Politics has no place here. Transgender children, like all children, just want to belong.


I oppose this fully.


I am strongly opposed.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I fully support this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parents need to be involved. </p>


Hurting students when school should keep them safe

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Students should feel safe at school. Trans students deserve to feel just as safe and heard as any other child. They are also there to learn. That includes learning about other people. Kids get it - they always see everything different as a good thing, or, at minimum, something to be witnessed wholeheartedly. If the adults representing these children are so ignorant and uncomfortable with showing students that other sorts of people exist, then what are we teaching them? That if you are afraid of something (or someone), you should ignore it? Or, in this proposal, actively harm them? This policy is setting our next generation back decades. </p>


Do not do this.


This is a bad policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Please block this policy as this will bring harm to children.


Strongly oppose this harmful policy against vulnerable kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>What is it with playing politics with the most vulnerable groups to score political points? It’s not like the idiots who are afraid of everybody can vote twice. It’s almost as if you don’t believe in democracy in the first place.  </p>


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


Strongly oppose.


Oppose! This guidance should not move forward

<!DOCTYPE html>

Many people do not understand the experience of transgender individuals, however this should not allow for treating them with anything less than full respect. There are many distressing scenarios that could come from these new policies. Outing trans kids to less than understanding parents could do harm. Outing trans kids to peers could do harm. Schools should be able to follow a trans kid's lead on how they will feel most supported and safe.


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I OPPOSE this draconian and dangerous legislation.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>  This will undeniably put thousands of kids into dangerous situations and make their lives miserable.      This act is unconscionable, and clearly a form of targeted legislative bigotry and harassment.</p>


Bodily autonomy is a human right.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is beyond debate that the right to do with ones body as they will is among the core and essential human rights afforded to us by our very existence as human beings, but if we must cite a document like the constitution instead we may. We are to be secure in our own persons, and that includes issues of bodily appearance and issues of identity. Many of the proponents for outing trans youth cite a vested interest of the parents, but we cannot treat all parents as equals in regards to safety or love. One needs only to give a passing glance to the treatment experienced by most of the LGBTQ+ community to realize the harm it could cause many children and teenagers to be outed to their abusive parent/parents. The choice to discuss such matters, or anything else, should be left to those most directly effected by that choice; and that is not the parent.


I strongly oppose these anti-lgbtq guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a trans person, it is very obvious how if these policies go into effect it will hurt trans youth and cost lives. I had already graduated high school when the previous guidelines  requiring schools to adopt evidence based policies that support trans and non-binary youth went into effect. My school wasn’t kind to trans kids; teachers outed students to their families, kids bullied lgbt students without consequence, it wasn’t an option to change our name or participate in events/use facilities that were separated by gender- basically the environment  that these guidelines would call for. Because of this, and already facing bullying for being a queer POC, I didn’t come out as transgender until well into adulthood. My educational environment being so openly transphobic made me ashamed to be trans and I suppressed my gender identity for a long time. This of course had a negative impact on my mental health and cost me years of my life I will never get back. I often think about how different things could have been if as a teenager I had access to life changing and life saving policies that protect and support trans and non-binary youth. For example, I would have been more comfortable making friends, would have focused better in class and spent less time worrying and trying to suppress a key part of who I am, I would have joined a sports team, and I would have started college confidently and authentically my full self.

All kids should have the opportunity for a complete childhood where they are supported by their teachers and peers, and can explore who they are in a safe and loving environment. My heart breaks for the trans and non-binary youth who’s lives are being used as a political pawn. This administration is signaling to the most vulnerable population that they do not matter and aren’t to be trusted, no kid should be made to feel that way.

Attacking queer youth and education is going to come back to bite the Republican Party in a few short years when these newly politicized teenagers reach voting age.


So many fake comments.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support this 100 %. Keep ALL kids safe. </p>


STRONGLY SUPPORT

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly support Governor Youngkin's model policies and encourage the school board to the right thing and implement and enforce these common sense provisions. </p>


Don't be bigots, it's pretty easy.


Anti-trans laws are anti-liberty laws.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The oppression of trans people is anti-American. Liberty for all applies to trans people and if it doesn’t, than none of us are free. Imposing laws that oppress trans people is what fascists do. These bills should be frustrated at all costs if we actually care about freedom for all. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


This is anti-trans policy that is cruel, unsupportive, and just plain WRONG.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I vehemently oppose this cruel and harmful policy.

Studies show that 40% of trans youth have attempted suicide. 82% have contemplated it.

This could be your child, your niece or nephew, your child's best friend, or a friend's child. It could be anyone.

This is a personal topic for each individual, not one that should be determined by any politician. This is absolutely cruel and we should be supporting all kids in schools in any way possible.

This is not a liberal or conservative topic it's a HUMAN topic.

Val Klotz

Alexandria, Virginia

Parent of two boys in Middle/ High School.


OPPOSED!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

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

PLEASE REJECT this new proposal!


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy endangers the well-being of ALL youth and is discriminatory while pretending to be inclusive. Embarassingly short sighted and anti-progress.


Support and thank you!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Children belong to their parents, not the government. There are already anti-bullying and harassment policies that protect all children. Thank you for writing a common-sense model policy. </p>


Discrimination in schools is bad, actually.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans rights are human rights


I am strongly opposed.


I strongly oppose this

<!DOCTYPE html>

We need to do everything we can as a society to protect our children. To exclude transgendered invididuals from this protection is exceptionally problematic and malicious. Transgendered youths should not be exposed to this kind of hatred and deserve to live, love, and learn with as much freedom as any cisgendered youth. We cannot let these hateful policies go into effect. Protect Trans students at all costs!


K-12 model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I fully stand with Governor Youngkin and agree that parents have an absolute right to be informed and empowered and our children must be protected. </p>


Strongly Opposed - Dangerous and irreparably damaging policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Banning students from using the bathroom that correlates with their gender, forcing students to use incorrect pronouns, and forcibly outing students will cause irreparable trauma to students. This will endanger children’s lives.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.

also your mother


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p style="text-align: left;">Glad to know the Governor is anti kid mental health, and pro suicide, good job showing you're true colors. You are not a good human and not a good person if you support this. </p>


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly OPPOSE these policies. These proposed policies will be extremely harmful to students. </p>


Do not do this.


Thank you for restoring parental rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you for restoring parental rights


I fully oppose this.


I am completely opposed.


I strongly believe this will harm children.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans youth have it tough enough already, don't cause them more pain though this.


Strongly oppose.


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

<!DOCTYPE html>

Regarding the subject item, I am all for respecting people having the ability to choose the direction to go with their lives except when that choice adversely affects those around them.

School boards and school systems must be held accountable for enabling behavior that results in the sexual abuse of others, as was the case in Loudon County with the so-called "transgender" student, a biological male, who went into a girl's school restroom and sexually assaulted a girl there. Any attempt by school boards and school systems to cover up sexual assault and intimidation must be stopped and not covered up, which the Loudon County school system has been trying to do.

The resulting backlash from this event and the position taken by the Democrat party to try silencing parents from having a say in their kid's education and labeling such parents "terrorists" for holding school boards accountable for sexual abuse resulted in last November's election of of a governor who is demonstrating that all Virginia Parents matter. They should have a say in their child's education.

Please support governor Glenn Youngkin’s new K-12 policies, which empower parents, restore common-sense to our schools, and protect our children.


I fully support these changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

They are necessary to protect Virginia’s children from abuse.


Transwoman Schlong

<!DOCTYPE html>

I hate this new policy. Now I will not be able to show off my schlong in the women's locker rooms. I get so much pussy because of showing off by schlong.


I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


Stop picking on trans kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a cruel, discriminatory, and likely illegal idea that should go back into the trash can it came from.


This is a bad policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>It doesn’t protect any one at all. It is designed to harm. Listen to pediatricians and educators. </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.


I am strongly opposed.


Parents have a RIGHT to be informed about their kids in school! 100% Support this!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p style="text-align: left;">I am infuriated that our Virginia public schools think they can brainwash my kids without my knowledge and without consequences! Parents should be the ultimate authority over their own children and the schools actions while on school property. This should include course curriculum and behavioral topics such as homosexuality and the like. HOW DARE a school staff try to hide information about a student from their own parents or guardian!! Shame on you Loudoun County School board! </p>


I STRONGLY support this!

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support this. Finally, some common sense.
The Left, with its unhinged and amoral views, are destroying our country. Thanks to the Left, our education system is worse than it’s ever been, and students are dumber than ever. I teach on the medical campus, and I’m appalled by how stupid the students are. Everything that the Left does, they seek to destroy the greatness of this country. Trans kids  need help.  Democrats need help.  Thank you, Youngkin, for stopping the brainwashing that the has permeated our schools.


I oppose this fully.


Do not do this.


I strongly oppose this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This isn't about protecting kids; it's about creating a distraction from the real issues, such as gun violence. This is cynical, cruel, and unnecessary.


I oppose this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>It is not the gov't's job to impose this administrations ideologies on VA families. LESS GOVT </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Absolutely Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly oppose this transphobic legislation. It is harmful to trans youth and violates their right to feel safe in schools and their community. OPPOSE. </p>


I support the change

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parents are responsible for their children.  </p>


An Extremely Harmful Decision

<!DOCTYPE html>

This bill will kill children. You are so out of touch with the consequences of this decision.


Find something better to do with your time than attack trans kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

Find something better to do than attack trans kids. Seriously. Y'all are grown adults, and you don't like a group of people because they are different than you all? Seriously? Grow up, and mind your own business.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


Great revision

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I love this new revised policy because it keeps everyone in mind. It creates more trust between schools and parents. It also creates a positive working relationship between parties. </p>


I oppose this truly awful and cruel policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I have proudly taught LGBTQ+ students in the past and will continue to do moving forward. This policy is yet another detestable effort to engage in LGBTQ+ erasure in our schools by forcing LGBTQ+ students, transgender students in particular to hide and/or deny their identities for fear that their teachers and school staff will be forced to "out" them to their parents, which will lead to verbal, emotional, and/or physical abuse and/or being kicked out of their homes. It is also designed to scare teachers and school staff to do the bidding of the "Moms For Liberty" crowd.

This policy, which was likely heavily influenced by right-wing special interests is intentionally cruel, and has no place in a Commonwealth which slogan is "Virginia is for Lovers" in reference to the Loving v Virginia case that ended bans on interracial marriage.

If this awful policy is enacted it will be resisted by some of the largest school districts in the Commonwealth and rightfully so, and as a teacher of 17 years, I have no intention of supporting it.


I am completely opposed.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Political Grandstanding and Bully Tactics are unacceptable

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>How about we treat all people with respect and grow together. The Youngkin bully pulpit is playing a sickening game of political grandstanding to appeal to the religious right, racists, homophobes and misogynists to only further him and his cronies shameful political careers. </p>


Leave Trans Kids Alone

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans people exist. Trans kids exist. Get over it. Stop trying to put trans kids in harms way because you’d rather see them dead than being accepted. Mind your business and move on.


Strongly oppose.


Do not do this.


Misguided policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

This misguided policy is probably illegal and most certainly is not useful. Withdraw it!


I absolutely, whole-heartedly, and adamantly OPPOSE this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am against Youngkin and the GOP's proposed student policy.

In spite of the good fortune and privileges life has given me, my time in grade school was a difficult one, primarily because of direct and indirect harassments from other students. I cannot imagine how much more difficult it is for LGBTQ students trying to go through school, knowing that both their peers AND the education system (and by extent the government) would enforce a policy that would coerce them to either conform to  christo-conservative desires, or expel them from sight and mind.

This policy and its enforcement condemns LGBTQ, as if their existence is something to be shunned, by providing zero recourse for any harassment or harmful actions against them.

Further, it endangers the students in question by forcing staff to "out" them to their parents or guardians, who themselves may be violently bigoted towards LGBTQ; The policymakers and enforcers pretend their hands are clean from any harm that comes to the students.

Do not pass this policy. I want the younger generations to become smarter and kinder, to feel safe that they can talk about who they are and that they can have some confidence that they'll be able to grow up and grow old; this policy confirms neither.


The VA government should NOT impose its ideological beliefs on students & teachers

<!DOCTYPE html>

Youngkin spokeswoman Macaulay Porter wrote in a statement: “It is not under a school’s or the government’s purview to impose a set of particular ideological beliefs on all students.” This is absolutely untrue since the Policy guidance on transgender students involves the Commonwealth government imposing its set of ideological beliefs on school students. What about the rights and freedoms of those students, and of their teachers, to make informed choices on their own, without government interference?

This policy guidance should be eliminated.


I am strongly opposed.


I oppose this fully.


I oppose this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy as currently written will put many transgender children in a position where they will be at best not adequately supported, and at worst severely harmed. This policy should be revised, ideally with substantial input from relevant mental health experts and members of the transgender community to determine the best way to approach supporting transgender children and ensuring their safety and wellbeing.


I am strongly opposed to this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This policy will harm and alienate children. Trans people deserve equity and nondiscrimination. Trans people deserve to be safe. </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


Let Trans Kids Live!

<!DOCTYPE html>

These proposed 'regulations' are a horrific and monstrous attack on the right of transgender kids to simply be who they are, on their fundamental right to bodily autonomy and self-determination. Children are not the property of their parents, or of the state. They have the right to decide who they will be and to demand that we respect their choices. There is nothing wrong with being transgender--it is a normal and healthy part of human diversity. Transgender people have existed since the dawn of human civilization (and no doubt long before that) and will exist for epochs after our own civilization dwindles into dust. You cannot stamp gender diversity out by simply refusing to treat transgender people with basic human decency. All these regulations will do is cause harm to vulnerable young people who are just trying to live authentic lives as the people who they truly are. The regulations will inflict incredible pain and suffering on young people (pain and suffering which, if you are not trans yourselves, you cannot possibly begin to comprehend), which studies have shown can lead to lifelong mental illness, physical harm, and even death. These regulations are also against Virginia law as it concerns gender identity and equality in education. The governor's administration is attempting to circumvent the law to hurt vulnerable young people via administrative action, a truly heinous and illegal abuse of power. It will fail in the courts, but it should never be allowed to stand in the first place.


I fully oppose this.


Leave trans kids alone

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Trans kids should have full and equal rights afforded all kids… and those who teach them should have no responsibility to change them or call them out. Leave trans kids alone and provide an educational space that is fully supportive of DEIA — centered on education and belonging </p>


A Vague & Harmful Policy That'll Harm Cisgender Students as Much a Trans Students

<!DOCTYPE html>

These policies are so harmful & vague in how they limit the rights of children. Not even the rights of gender expression. The right to a child's very imagination. Are we supposed to tell elementary schoolers that they can't play around with creative nicknames? That a child named Edward can't be affectionately called Squidward by his friends, simply because it's not commonly associated with the legal name? What does "commonly associated" even mean? What guide are they going based off of for this? They don't provide one!

And how is it legal to say that a student's legal name and sex may not be changed? That's in direct violation of state laws! Are they trying to bankrupt Virginia schools with future court costs? Shouldn't this be left to the state lawmakers, so it doesn't invite legal conflict and opposition that could only reinforce the policies these new policies are replacing?

And what are they doing trying to place "trans-girls" with cisgender boys, and vice-versa? Are they encouraging illicit activities between students of opposite gender identities?

These rules are just as barbaric, if not more so, for cisgender students to adhere to as transgender students & should be immediately recalled & reconsidered!


This is a terrible policy decision.


PROTECT TRANS KIDS!!!!


Don’t listen to the spammers, this is a good thing

<!DOCTYPE html>

Give parents control over their own children again


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids, and is a very bad idea. Do not do this.


Let kids be kids!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Do not pass this. Let kid be kids and people be human. </p>


Thank you, Gov

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you for supporting the right of parents to be involved in their child's education, and for refusing to allow teachers and administrators to encourage children to keep secrets about their physical and mental health from parents.  Transitioning students without parents' knowledge can be detrimental to the child's health, particularly if  hormones are involved.  We can support transgender rights without trampling on the rights of the rest of the school or the parents.


Strongly oppose.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Agree to this Common Sense Policy Change!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

Agree fully with this new policy proposal. This will protect parents and their children.


Do not support this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Schools must be an open, nurturing space that supports ALL children. Please provide transgender students to be their authentic selves. </p>


I am strongly opposed.


Do not do this.


Unethical and counterproductive rule.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This Guidance Document is not only terrible for the health and safety of transgender students, it is directly antithetical to the goals laid out by the proposal itself. You state that a child's "distinctive abilities and characteristics... should be valued and respected", and that all children, including transgender children, have the right to attend school "in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying". Yet somehow, this proposal immediately turns against these promises, demanding teachers and faculty deadname & use the wrong pronouns for transgender students, & report any deviations from traditional gender identity to parents that could very well harass & punish their child for feelings they cannot control. Rules like these do not discourage children from making a decision they'll regret, as some have suggested about trans children changing their name & gender presentation & taking hormone therapies; in fact, nearly 95% of trans individuals who undergo these procedures are extremely satisfied & do not regret their decision, regardless of age. All these policies do is make transgender kids less comfortable in a school environment & in their own bodies, and open up abuse by peers, teachers, & the very same parents you claim have an inalienable right to control their children's lives. This rule is highly unethical & does not respect the biological, psychological, and social realities of transgender students, and as a very concerned citizen I insist that you refuse its passage.


Shortsightedness of Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

The proposed policy is harmful to school districts.   By creating barriers for trans children or any child that doesn't "fit in", you are creating a hostile environment that they must go to each and every day.  The assumption that all parents are supportive of their children is wrong - many children see school as a safe haven - a place they can talk more freely without the fear of punishment for being LGBTQ+ from their parents or other family members.  To not allow individuals to speak to others outside of their family unit subjects them to not only harm from parents who do not accept them, but self harm as well.  On another note, the policy that children must be called by their given name is ridiculous.  If someone is named Charles but wants to be called Chuck, will that be allowed?  How about someone named Robert who would like to be called Bobby? I could go on.  Please throw out this "policy" and follow the laws that were recently passed regarding acceptance of all children.


This is harmful and unnecessary

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a parent of 3 kids in VA public schools, I completely oppose the suggested changes.
VA DOE currently has a fair and non discriminatory policy in place from 2021.
I do not agree w the proposed changes. We should protect trans kids.


I fully oppose this.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


This will hurt children. They deserve better from us.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Another citizen of the Commonwealth captured my thoughts exactly:

"The 2021 policy enacted by the Department of Education created guidance to school boards and schools that protected trans and non-binary youth and provided an inclusionary learning environment for all students – exactly the role of public schools in our nation. This new proposed policy takes away protections that kids had to be free from harm in their learning environment, imposing standards that put them in danger in school and for some, at home. I urge the Board to reject this new policy and maintain the 2021 inclusive policy.

Schools are to act in the best interest of the child and protect children while in their care. We train educators to identify bullying behavior and signs of abuse in the home and the steps they can take to intervene. By forcing an educator to use "birth assigned sex" when determining names and pronouns of children and teens instead of respecting the student, this policy will out trans students who are socially transitioned but, for whatever reason, have not gone through the process to make legal changes, increasing their risk of assault and bullying. For some trans and non-binary students, school is the only safe space in their life and the educators they interact with who are respectful of them are the key protective factor that leads to survival. This policy will take that away from at-risk youth.

If this policy is enacted, suicides in LGBTQ+ youth, especially trans youth will increase. Bullying of these same youth will increase. Targeted attacks of these same youth will increase. These are hyperbolic statements, but facts based on data from organizations like the CDC, who recommend that schools provide safe spaces for all youth, especially LGBTQ+ youth to reduce teen suicides. A 2019 NIH study documented that real and perceived safety at school is a protective factor for trans students in reducing suicidal tendencies."

I ask you to prioritize the needs of children over the feelings of a few people with limited understanding of trans people and over the political aspirations of Governor Youngkin. Prioritize saving children and keeping schools safe for every child, regardless of anyone's personal belief system. Reject this cruel policy.


Trans education policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy is inhumane and immoral. What happened, Governor, to the Jeffersonian dictum that the least government is best? Stay out of our families’ most personal and sacred decisions!


I oppose this fully.


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


i strongly oppose this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am appalled at this proposed new draft model policy. It runs directly against all the values that we should prioritize as Virginians. As a family member of a trans individual, I am deeply ashamed that our state would put such a policy on the books. If these policies were to pass, I could not allow my family member to come visit our great state out of concern for the transphobia these policies will surely amplify. The VDOE should reject these policies.


Parents' Rights Matter

As a parent of a student in Virginia public schools and as a long-term substitute teacher in FCPS, I was appalled at how much leeway the school had in the previous model policies to hide information from parents. We live in a society where children require parental/guardian permission to go on a field trip, get a tattoo, get a piercing, or attend extracurricular activities, just to name a few, yet we would allow the school to begin transitioning our children's gender identities without parental knowledge? This is not only a blatant violation of parents' trust; it is a gross, abusive overreach of the state's power.The new model policies put parents back into their rightful place as ultimately responsible for the upbringing of their children and it is the right thing to do.

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a parent of a student in Virginia public schools and as a long-term substitute teacher in FCPS, I was appalled at how much leeway the school had in the previous model policies to hide information from parents. We live in a society where children require parental/guardian permission to go on a field trip, get a tattoo, get a piercing, or attend extracurricular activities, just to name a few, yet we would allow the school to begin transitioning our children's gender identities without parental knowledge? This is not only a blatant violation of parents' trust; it is a gross, abusive overreach of the state's power.
The new model policies put parents back into their rightful place as ultimately responsible for the upbringing of their children and it is the right thing to do.


This is hateful idiocy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Nearly everything the right says about queer populations are lies based solely on scaremongering and their disgust with our lives. Leave queer people alone, they will live their lives and be valuable members of your population.

This includes trans kids, who are not now, nor have they ever been, a threat to anyone. Like every other panic, this is using the imaginations of conservatives to push a minority into a vulnerable position where they can be violently eliminated.

If you actually cared about these populations, you would support them and listen to them. Trans kids don't grow up to be Cis, and gender affirming care saves lives. Please stop trying to regulate the lives of a tiny vulnerable minority. All of the supposed concerns disintegrate under even moderate examination.


I strongly oppose this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy is disgusting and extraordinarily discriminatory against trans people especially trans kids who just need support but are getting support yanked from under them because if policies like these. This is going to lead to suicides, abuse and homicides and those deaths will be on your hands. This is an awful policy that I strongly oppose.


I support trans kids but want parents involved.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a liberal person who believes that trans kids need to be supported and not bullied, I have been through these discussions and explorations with my own kids and feel intimately involved in what these feelings and impulses look like in pre-teens.  I also believe fully that there are elements of social contagion that is driving the current tidal-wave of self-identified trans kids.

It is because I have thought so much about this that I believe that the original policy which not only allowed, but encouraged schools to keep parents out of these discussions and decisions around gender was deeply wrong and destructive.

I do not support all of the elements of the Governor's new policy (I could not care less about bathrooms), and I did not vote for him.  However, I was relieved that the new policy brought parents role back to the forefront, which is essential.  I would suggest that maybe there be provision to provide a work-around for instances when the school believes that abuse or real harm may occur because of parental involvement.  It could be a court or psychologist approved system that gives schools flexibility, but is more than just a pre-teen asking to hide something from their parents, which should never be the position of the government to encourage or facilitate.

Thank you for this policy change.  I am relieved and grateful.


More LGBTQ hate

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This proposal is hateful, ignorant, and divisively partisan. It is a political gambit from an undeclared presidential candidate designed to curry favor with MAGAts, no matter how many vulnerable kids it harms. Cruelty is a GOP feature, not a bug. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose.


Thank you for protecting our children! We support you!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Strongly support this, thank you for protecting our children! </p>


This proposal is a breach of fundamental human rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

This proposal made by Glen Youngkin is filled with all kind of weasel words and political jargon to hide it's true intention. Namely to strip transgender kids of their rights and to deprive of them of a safe environment where they can express themselves. By implementing this proposal it would turn schools from a safe haven into a prison like environment where one is punished for not conforming to the gender norm one was given by their parents. I respect that parent's have a right to educate their children in the way that they see fit, however this right should not hinder a child's development into the person they want to grow up to be. This proposal would give the Virginian government and Virginian schools the legal possibilities to publicly out transgender children and to ban them from using the school's utilities(bathrooms etc) in a way that conforms with their gender identity. If implemented it will lead to situations where transgender kids may find themselves threatened with their lives, either via their classmates or hostile school stuff or via their parents who object to their gender identity. It would lead to systematic discrimination of the state and private actors against transgender children and will costs the lives of many of them.

The proposal tries to justify itself by using phrases like "Freedom of the parents to educate their child" and "consultation with educational leaders". However if implemented this will reduce the freedom of a large group of people. If Glen Youngkin and the Republican party really cared about freedom as much as they claim they do then they would recognize this and not come with proposals like this. Reality however proves otherwise which shows to the world that they do not care about freedom but rather about control. Control of transgender children and of transgender people in general. Furthermore if implemented could this policy have repercussions far beyond the state of Virginia. It could lead to implementation of similar policies in other US states and beyond and it would affect far more people then imagined.

I urge everyone reading my comment to resist this proposal by blocking efforts to further legislation like this. This can be done via protests, strikes or by spreading the news and denouncing it far and wide. We cannot allow a small group of people like this to determine the faith of thousands if not millions of people. Resist the Fascist tyranny of the GOP now, Resist tomorrow and resist for always.


I fully oppose this

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I wholeheartedly oppose this. This will harm or even cause the death of trans kids. You know that though and you don't care. Whatever gets you votes right? Some pro-lifer you are. </p>


Stop trying to disrupt trans kids' lives

<!DOCTYPE html>

All this is going to do is make their lives at school more emotionally taxing than they already are, as well as put some in potentially physical danger. Stop projecting your own discomfort about trans people existing onto kids who are just trying to live their best possible life and leave them alone. I can tell you from personal experience that being forced to live opposed to one's gender identity leads to a lifetime of traumas that are difficult to overcome.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I firmly oppose this bigoted policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy is based in uneducated bigotry. Do not pass it.


I STRONGLY OPPOSE

<!DOCTYPE html>

If this proposal ever comes to fruition, it will do so much more harm than good. It will alienate and put trans students directly into harms way from their peers. It would take so little to help these students (who are already going through the confusing and scary situation of growing up and becoming adults) feel comfortable, but banning them from being able to even exist as themselves in schools is completely monsterous.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Agree w Governor's proposal - yet propose course for teens on dealing w controversial social issues

<!DOCTYPE html>

Controversial social health issues course.  Schools, colleges, churches, businesses, etc. provide a valuable service when they encourage people to educate themselves about people who are different. But you don’t improve intergroup relations by making certain groups wrong, as many are prone to do in this age of political correctness and divisiveness, CRT being today’s most evident example. Moreover, one-off anti-bias or sensitivity trainings like Starbucks offers has little lasting value as research has shown, even though these might help disingenuous white business owners feel better and perhaps enhance their bottom line.

Rather than offer anti-bias training apart from other controversial social health issues, help people discover and deal with the various biases that make us human through well-crafted, voluntary courses of study that address several of a community’s hot social health issues. We have no lack of these:

§ Bullying § Opioid/drug abuse § School shootings and disciplinary incidents § Mental health breakdowns § Teen suicides § Sexual misconduct § Interracial strife § Homelessness § Deteriorating police-youth relations § Assimilating recent immigrants, § Urban riots destroying and looting property, just to name a few.

Keeping such issues in their disciplinary silos through separate programs to address every problem is neither engaging, effective nor affordable. Much as the work of organizations that address these issues is admirable, their highly targeted responses tend not to provide sufficient time and subject matter breadth for the in-depth training in emotional intelligence that today’s world requires. In a word, our communities must build better people to deal with this evermore complex world, and that requires opportunities over time to practice building healthy relationships in continually shifting situations. Such a course, probably team taught, would seem as important as any other.

Students, and for that matter most Americans, need courses, retreats and town meetings that would help them develop and defend points of view on controversial social health issues and listen carefully and respectfully to one another while they argue. I largely developed and taught such a course at Berkeley High School (CA) that remained in the curriculum for over 25 years (links below). Race relations was among the topics that a student class could choose to cover in the course’s 50 hours; however, the issue of race often came up in discussing and debating other topics, such as drug abuse, police-youth relations and human sexuality. Backing into such discussions involving race was just as if not more effective than a unitary focus on it. One of my successors wrote a book about her experiences with this “social living” course.

The State of Virginia could fund the updating of this course with the help of prominent health and social service organizations and offer the associated teacher training package to schools, colleges and community organizations that would like to run with it. The state should also design and fund a long-term evaluation through the competitive bid process.

http://loudounnow.com/2016/07/22/op-ed-engaging-teens-to-confront-social-and-health-challenges/

http://loudounnow.com/2018/04/18/letter-barry-e-stern-purcellville/


Do not pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This is incredibly damaging to the youth of Virginia.  </p>


I am strongly opposed.


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


I strongly oppose this new model policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I absolutely and completely oppose this new model policy. It is nothing but hate wrapped up in religion and double standard. The policy purports to be a method by which to protect kids, but it clearly doesn’t mean ALL kids. It means I my kids who are cisgender and heterosexual. That MUST be the only kids it aims to protect, because the actual policies it contains would do real harm to trans and non-binary kids. Allowing kids to be dead-named every single day will cause immense psychological damage. There’s already an epidemic of mental health issues and suicide amongst trans and non-binary youth. This policy would exacerbate that. In addition, teaching kids that they can harm others in the name of religion is absolutely despicable - and I say that as a practicing Christian. This policy is disgusting and hateful. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I oppose this fully.


Queer Lives Matter


I fully oppose this.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


Protect Trans Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>”Empowering parents is not only a fundamental right, but it is essential to improving outcomes for all children in Virginia.“ This includes trans kids, and the best way you can empower trans children is to support them in their transition and ask what they need. Making a hostile education environment will do nothing but harm and cause long lasting damage to these children. Think about if this is for the selfish reasons of an adult that is in no way related to the child or if it’s actually for the “safety” of children because I can guarantee that it is not the latter. </p>


I am completely opposed.


Do not do this.


Devastating step backwards

<!DOCTYPE html>

We’ve made so much progress in gender equality in recent years and this decision is nothing short of horrifying.

Bullying in schools is very much still an issue and this will only serve to make things worse.

I’m embarrassed to live in Virginia. This is a huge step backwards.


Opposed to these harmful model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the model policies drafted by Governor Youngkin and his department of education. Written under the guise of "parental rights" and "privacy," these policies won't protect student privacy or parental rights but WILL cause harm to students who do not feel comfortable being out at home.

As for "religious freedom," parents are free to send their children to religious schools, which are aligned with their faith (and, in some instances, their bigotry) if they so desire. Public schools, however, are for ALL, and every single student MUST feel safe and affirmed while at school even gender diverse kids. Kids who don't feel safe are not ready to learn and, for a Governor so obsessed with our supposedly failing public schools, he sure is picking a strange and ineffective way to address "learning loss."

These model policies are a blatant violation of the Virginia Human Rights Act and § 22.1-23.3 of the Code of Virginia AND disregard the ruling by the 4th Circuit Court in Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board. They're vindictive and cruel, did not consider evidence-based best practice, and are nothing but a political power grab by a pandering presidential-hopeful.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Compelling school staff to “out” transgender students, likely exposing students to emotional and physical abuse from unaccepting parents is cruel. Do no pass this </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.


This will get children killed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Hello,

Transgender children are not predators, but victims. It does not harm any child to go by a different name or pronouns at school, and it would be a massive breach of confidentiality and privacy to disclose this information to parents. Think, would you go up to a random cop and tell them you have a gun? It is harmless information, and needs to stay private so students do not go home to abuse.


This is a horrific policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this proposed policy in the strongest possible terms. This would strip trans and gender fluid students of the protections they currently have in our public schools. It is also an attack on Virginia's educators. For far too many trans and gender fluid students, school is a sanctuary, a place where they have more protections and who they are is affirmed to a greater degree than any place else, even at home. Parents who love and accept their children for who they are support the protections that are currently in place: protections that include allowing trans students to use the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity, rather than their biological sex. Protections also exist currently for trans gender pronouns and names. Teachers in Arlington Public Schools are directed to make sure they refer to a student by the name and pronoun they want to be called. No consultation or deferral to parents is required, or necessary. This is as it should be. These policies would take those protections away.

The policy in question is here: https://doe.virginia.gov/support/gender-diversity/2022-model-policies-on-the-privacy-dignity-and-respect-for-all-students-town-hall.pdf


I am strongly opposed.


This will do irreparable harm and will cause children to kill themselves

<!DOCTYPE html>

Guidance protocols like this encourage at-home abuse for at-risk children. The number one cause for suicides among trans youth are unsupportive environments. This policy is putting these poor kids on a sacrificial mount for the sake of a conservative culture war win. We should not be forcing kids to live as someone they are not for the sake of appeasing parents who don’t “agree with it”. We must support transgender youth and allow them to live and express themselves as they see fit. You are sentencing children to death.


Anti-Trans Virginia Department of Education model policy in Virginia public schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is unacceptable. These policies cannot stay. Fix it.


Strongly Opposed to policing children's bodies

<!DOCTYPE html>

You are not protecting children. You are actively harming individuals who do not fit in your cookie cutter christian world view. Let people use the restroom in peace. How dare you tell people which pronounces to you. I don't get to tell you what your name/ pronouns are. Why do you get to tell me mine.

Get governments out of our bathrooms.


Strongly oppose.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is a grave mistake to pass this.


parental rights

BJ Lynch, grandmother raising grandchild

<!DOCTYPE html>

I took my granddaughter out of public school after I witnessed the fluff they are teaching.  No real history, math or science. Most kids can't read or write. Superintendents running off good teachers and replacing them with young people they can control. I appreciate giving parents control but until the education system is brought up to par....I'll never send her back. No one wants to work in public school anymore. Can't find subs for anything. It's a total disaster. Dismantle the DOE and start over!


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


Why is this necessary?

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I can’t begin to imagine that THIS out of all things is what people are losing their heads over. Not the teacher shortage, not their children learning about math and science, but this. People who support this are monstrous. </p>


I fully oppose this.


I am completely opposed.


I oppose this fully.


This is a terrible policy decision.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy decision.


No to new transgender guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Just let people be who they want to be. </p>


Do not do this.


Do NOT give schools authority to IDENTIFY our children!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>We have watched Virginia schools coerce students into lgbtq community by inappropriately “identifying” them as they see fit for years! They are able to do this through questionnaires and surveys and secret lunch groups at school with teachers and advisors. . A student went home and told her mother she was pan sexual, the parent asked what that meant, the student replied “I don’t know”  She was attending an lgbtq lunch group falsely  labeled.   The schools have no business “identifying” children and the secret surveys they are sending to the students need to STOP!  </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose.  School MUST be a safe and welcoming environment for ALL children.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the new 2022 guidance put forth to curtail human rights of transgender children.  The guidance focuses a great deal on the fundamental rights of parents to direct their children's educations. While I agree that is a fundamental due process right under the 14th Amendment, such rights (or ANY rights) should never be at the expense of the fundamental rights of another.  A parent's rights to censor what their child learns at school does not trump a child's right to a safe, inclusive, free public education.  FULL STOP. Moreover, parents are given a say in public education by electing local officials, school boards, school committee members, etc.  That is the end of a parent's right to direct what is taught in schools - as it should be.  Public education is just that.  If parents want more input on their child's education, perhaps they should consider home schooling or private schooling.  All children in the Commonwealth of Virginia should be afforded a safe, welcoming learning environment - one inclusive of all children.  Virginia is better than this. Do better for our children and vote NO.


I oppose this to the farthest extent I possibly can.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Protect trans kids! People are all for "the rights of parents" until those parents support their children, in which case, they are known as child abusers. Because you can only do exactly what they want you to do. Be yourself! This is a bill actively against the happiness and wellbeing of children. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, are all being undermined, and as such, I oppose it wholeheartedly. </p>


Strongly Oppose This!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This is a violation of human rights! Do this and your rights will be next on the chopping block. </p>


Strongly oppose. Stop targeting trans children.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy is nothing more than the result of a ginned up panic by conservative bigots targeting a marginalized, vulnerable minority population. Under this policy, some cisgender children wouldn't even be able to use their nicknames--this just demonstrates what a slapdash, firehose of a proposal this is, all in the name of targeting trans children's right to live as they choose, and also in the name of riling up the hateful mob that constitutes the governor's supporters.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


Oppose--Negative Impact on Trans Students' Mental Health

Hello,My name is Emmy Johnson, and I'm a therapist, social working, and Clinical Care Coordinator for Gender Affirmative Care at Center for Discovery, an eating disorder treatment company that has several locations in Northern Virginia (McLean, Alexandria, Fairfax). I worked as a primary therapist at the McLean location for a year and a half, and in my current role, I support transgender and gender questioning adults and youth at all Virginia (and all nationwide) locations.

Affirmation and support of someone’s gender identity is associated with the best mental health outcomes and has been repeatedly linked to meaningful improvements in eating disorder symptoms, suicide ideation and self-harm (Catalpa & McGuire, 2018; Klein & Golub, 2016; McConnell et al. 2016; Russell & Fish, 2016; Ryan et al., 2010; Travers et al., 2012 , Durwood, McLaughlin, and Olson, 2017; Katz-Wise et al., 2018; Kuvalanka et al., 2017; Olson et al., 2016; Simons et al., 2013; Veale et al., 2017, Sevelius et al., 2020, Jones et al, 2016; Nowaskie et al., 2021; Owen-Smith et al., 2018; Testa et al., 2017, de Vries et al., 2012; Jones et al., 2018). Among my clients, invalidation of their gender is regularly cited as a factor in the onset of their eating disorder, and the ability to be themself--to be seen and acknowledged as themself--is a key part of their recovery journey.
I strongly oppose the proposed Model Policy. This policy would require non-affirmation of students in their gender, require outing students who may come from homes where it is unsafe to come out, and prevent all students from learning about the normal spectrum of gender and sexuality. In my professional opinion, based on the best research available as well as my professional experience, this policy will increase rates of eating disorders, self-harm, and suicide.

I would be happy to discuss the research and my professional experience further, should that be helpful.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Hello,
My name is Emmy Johnson, and I'm a therapist, social working, and Clinical Care Coordinator for Gender Affirmative Care at Center for Discovery, an eating disorder treatment company that has several locations in Northern Virginia (McLean, Alexandria, Fairfax). I worked as a primary therapist at the McLean location for a year and a half, and in my current role, I support transgender and gender questioning adults and youth at all Virginia (and all nationwide) locations.

Affirmation and support of someone’s gender identity is associated with the best mental health outcomes and has been repeatedly linked to meaningful improvements in eating disorder symptoms, suicide ideation and self-harm (Catalpa & McGuire, 2018; Klein & Golub, 2016; McConnell et al. 2016; Russell & Fish, 2016; Ryan et al., 2010; Travers et al., 2012 , Durwood, McLaughlin, and Olson, 2017; Katz-Wise et al., 2018; Kuvalanka et al., 2017; Olson et al., 2016; Simons et al., 2013; Veale et al., 2017, Sevelius et al., 2020, Jones et al, 2016; Nowaskie et al., 2021; Owen-Smith et al., 2018; Testa et al., 2017, de Vries et al., 2012; Jones et al., 2018). Among my clients, invalidation of their gender is regularly cited as a factor in the onset of their eating disorder, and the ability to be themself--to be seen and acknowledged as themself--is a key part of their recovery journey.

I strongly oppose the proposed Model Policy. This policy would require non-affirmation of students in their gender, require outing students who may come from homes where it is unsafe to come out, and prevent all students from learning about the normal spectrum of gender and sexuality. In my professional opinion, based on the best research available as well as my professional experience, this policy will increase rates of eating disorders, self-harm, and suicide.

I would be happy to discuss the research and my professional experience further, should that be helpful.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Transphobic policies have got to go

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>These policies seek only to harm children and human rights. I oppose these archaic, disgusting, close minded, anti-human proposals. Virginia schools are better than this garbage. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose.


I am strongly opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This would be yet another terrible policy decision by the Youngkin administration.  "Parental rights" are the new boogeyman to fire up the Republican base.  In this particular case, it will actually kill people.  The adverse mental health implications are potentially too severe to force students to be addressed by improper pronouns.  This is already a case of settled law in the Commonwealth, it does not need to be revised. </p>


Strongly Against Recent Change in Policy Towards VA Trans Students

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy is cowardly and incredibly regressive and needs to be rejected across

the board. It reminds me a lot of the unhinged ‘Satanic Panic’ hysteria of the 1980s.

Youngkin’s administration is throwing out red meat to his Evangelical base. As always,

the cruelty is the point with such targeted policy and legislation.


Strongly oppose this clear attack on basic human rights and decency

<!DOCTYPE html>

The proposal seeks to support the verbal, psychological and physical abuse of children by limiting transgender and gender diverse youth from protections clearly established for all. Attempting to segregate them as a second class citizen is a clear breach of both U.S and international law and human rights. As such all provisions such as: referring to pupils by their chosen name and pronouns,  allowing students to use space reserved for a specific gender/sex as match their gender identity, protection from harassment or bullying by adults or children (especially hostile parents), etc must be upheld. The actions in this proposal will be lethal to  transgender and gender diverse youth, from abusive parents and peers to pushing them towards suicide. No reasonable, rational human with any empathy or care for another could support this motion.


I strongly oppose this guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Our government and our education system should be doing everything in their power to PROTECT trans kids, not causing them further harm and isolation. All children deserve the dignity of existing as they are, being called the name and pronoun they prefer and being allowed to use the restroom they are most comfortable using. We should not be policing their bodies, their gender expression or anything else about who they are. We should be working as a community and a commonwealth to provide a safe, comprehensive education for them in a healthy, accepting environment. Banning gender expression does not protect kids, it harms them. You can not stop kids from being trans, but if this passes, you will be putting their lives in real danger. Protect trans kids. Oppose this guidance. </p>


This is monstrous.

<!DOCTYPE html>

As if trans kids don't have enough problems, not only is it okay in Governor Youngkin's eyes to out them to potentially abusive families, he wants it mandated, and wants every facet of their academic life to emphasize that they're different from their cis peers. Has anyone stopped to think how alarming it is that we're apparently supposed to define children by their genitalia and not by the identities they forge for themselves? I'm starting as a substitute in a Virginia school district soon and if it comes down to it, I'm not complying with this. If it costs me my position, so be it. I will never punish a child for trying to figure out who they are.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


I fully oppose this.


Extremely opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This will do nothing but harm children. </p>


Do not do this.


This action will endanger lives

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Life is hard enough for our youth, let alone for the gay and trans youth. Why are we turning back the pages in time to more hate and bigotry? Outing kids to their parents? Why? What purpose does that serve? Don’t you think if these children felt safe to come out they would have done so already to their parents? Great; now they may be homeless, too. </p>


I support the proposed policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I sympathize with transgender students and their parents.  I can't possibly imagine the challenges they face.  However, I strongly believe that parents need to be included in any key decisions that affect their children.  This new policy document upholds parental rights: "Parents have the right to make decisions with respect to their children: Policies shall be drafted to safeguard parents’ rights with respect to their child, and to facilitate the exercise of those rights....Schools shall defer to parents to make the best decisions with respect to their children."


Harming children under the guise of parental rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

As an educator, a parent, an aunt and a HUMAN BEING, I strongly oppose this bill that puts children at direct risk for harassment, ridicule, and their own safety. Schools are supposed to be a safe haven for students that may not have support at home. Schools are places of learning- and if we can’t learn from one another, then what are we doing? Schools are places where we can either support ALL students, or we can make it a place where some students are reported- like the gestapo. This teacher refuses to report and will continue to honor a student’s chosen identity and teach others that the differences in each of us is what learning and understanding is all about.

Don’t be fooled- this isn’t about a parent’s rights. It’s about harming the children that are already at the highest risk for suicide. Parents have plenty of rights- remember you have the right to send your child to a school that will choose to discriminate. But public schools accept everyone and treat everyone with the same respect they deserve. At least they used to be. I have hope they will continue to be.


I oppose this fully.


I am strongly opposed.


Disastrous policy idea, unsafe for children

<!DOCTYPE html>

To ban all these things in regard to transgender kids is a furthering act of genocide. Absolutely opposed