Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Carol Ischinger
3211 Amberley Ln
Fairfax, VA 22031

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Carol Ischinger
<br />3211 Amberley Ln<br />Fairfax, VA 22031<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148262491" width="1" height="1" />


Protect the straight children

<!DOCTYPE html>

The children who will be at risk and endanger are the straight children. Now their minds have to be "polluted" by the schools districts pushing transgender upon them, some will be forced to become a transgender and the school districts are not being transparent with the respective parents. Stop this nonsense and allow the parents to provide gender education to their children!


Support tolerance, not ignorance!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a history and government teacher, I am devastated to see the Governor proposing that we go backwards into a position of intolerance by removing a student's freedom of expression over the most important aspect of their lives, their identity.   The arguments against supporting the rights of transgender minors echo those of the massive resistance crowd of the 1950s and 1960s.  Only now instead of letting parents choose to keep their schools segregated and “protecting” their children from sitting in classes or interacting with other races, they believe that the same interactions with non-binary or transgender students will have unthinkable consequences.  Yes they will.   Much like integration. Students who interact with other beliefs, cultures, and identities grow up to be inclusive, empathetic, community-builders who aware of how their actions impact others.  We’ve been taught to embrace the diversity of our country.  Gender is simply another area of diversity.  The right side of history won against the segregationists of the 20th century, and I know that it will win again against this group because in America freedom always wins over bigotry.   </p>


100% support the Governor!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support the revised Model Policies recommended and effective Oct 27, 2022. If school districts want to push the transgender issue with children without their parental involvement or knowledge, then this is Marxism. Maybe to be "equitable" schools should push religious beliefs too! </p>


protect children

<!DOCTYPE html>

This proposal is horrendously wrong headed. This will endanger trans children from their bigoted peers or family. This will put the rights of wormed and girls back a hundred years by forcing teachers and empowering students to police restrooms for any person who doesn't fit stereotypes of gender. This is invasive of student and family privacy.


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose Virginia’s rewritten model policies for the treatment of transgender students. As a parent of a transgender child, there are already many worries and concerns over his mental health and potential treatment by society. Thankfully, our child's Fairfax county middle school is a welcoming space that accepts and respects him as a human being. The school administration changed my child's name and gender in the school account at our request. The teachers use the desired name and pronouns. This has meant the world to our child, and allowed the freedom to attend school as his true self, without needing to hide or apologize for simply wanting to live his identity.

I am deeply disturbed by the VDOE guidance and harm it will inflict on this at risk community. Adults and schools should be supporting our brave children, not making life harder for them to navigate as they seek basic gender affirming rights.


You Are Supposed to Protect ALL children, Not Just A Select Few

<!DOCTYPE html>

To say that I am disgusted is an understatement. Everyone has the right to pursue happiness in their lives, and forcing transgender children to adhere to the delusions of others rather than being true to themselves is deplorable. Trans youth deserve to have their pronouns and chosen names respected and deserve the same right to use the correct facilities when in need. The fact that this world is so obsessed with how trans people relieve themselves and where they go is unjust at best, and frankly reeks of perversion at worst. This isn't a hard concept. Trans youth who are accepted by family, friends, and school, have a much lower risk of committing suicide. THAT should be where your focus lies, not on oppressing children. I understand some of the people who proposed this obviously have many failings in their own personal lives, but there is no need to take out those frustrations on children. Grow up. Seek out therapy. And let trans youth live.


Protect Emotionally Vulnerable Children and Parental Rights!

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Patricia Holmes
3008 Mid Ln
Houston, TX 77027

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Patricia Holmes
<br />3008 Mid Ln<br />Houston, TX 77027<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148262111" width="1" height="1" />


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Mindy Vaughan
5301 51st St Apt D5
Lubbock, TX 79414

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Mindy Vaughan
<br />5301 51st St Apt D5<br />Lubbock, TX 79414<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148262112" width="1" height="1" />


Oppose- Follow the data

<!DOCTYPE html>

According to the Trevor Project, Transgender youth reported significantly increased rates of depression, suicidality, and victimization compared to their cisgender peers.

In 2019, one in three transgender youth reported attempting suicide, almost one-third reported being a victim of sexual violence, and more than half reported a two-week period of depression.

80% of transgender students said they’d avoided bathrooms because they felt unsafe or uncomfortable.

64% of transgender students avoided gym classes because they felt unsafe or uncomfortable.

59% of transgender students had been required to use a bathroom that did not match the gender they live in every day.

Only 12% of trans youth say their school or district has official policies to support trans students.

Only 27% of trans youth say their families are very supportive. Fewer than half (43%) say they have an adult in their family they could turn to if they felt sad or worried.

All of these statistics say how important it is to support this vulnerable population of students, and yet people are still trying to hurt them. When this policy says it is giving parents the right to control their children, it means that it is actively hurting 73% of trans youth.


New Trans policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support the governor 's new transgender policies. Parents must have a voice in the children's education and safety at school. </p>


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Lauri Bach
11660 Dell Rd
Kingsley, MI 49649

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />As an educator, I support Governor Younkin's model. Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Lauri Bach
<br />11660 Dell Rd<br />Kingsley, MI 49649<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148261747" width="1" height="1" />


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Lula Fields
5196 FR 2090
Purdy, MO 65734

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Lula Fields
<br />5196 FR 2090<br />Purdy, MO 65734<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148261621" width="1" height="1" />


Support this Youngkin initiative 100%

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This new guidance is well balanced for the students as well as the parents!  It is a wonderfully written and will provide safety for all students.  It will restore dignity to the role of the parents in the education of their children.  </p>


Support the Governor

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the new Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools. I am afraid for my children if opposite biological children use the same restrooms as my children. Especially, a biological male adult who identifies as a female then uses a female restroom with my minor female child, I do not condone this and will be freaking upset if I find out it occurred. Schools should not "push" transgender if so, then push religious beliefs too!


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I don't know what I can add that hasn't already been said, but I really want to emphasize how harmful these policies are.

First, for a lot of students, school might be a much safer place than home. It can be confusing and emotional and difficult enough to be a teen or pre-teen; add to that trying to figure out and come to terms with an identity that so many refuse to understand. Notifying parents of their student's trans identity if that student is not ready to tell them can endanger that student. If they're in a non-accepting household, and in a school that won't protect them, where are they supposed to turn for community?

To those making the argument that allowing trans kids to use the bathroom corresponding to their gender identity violates cisgender girls' rights: I promise you the discomfort you feel at you or your child sharing a bathroom with a trans person is temporary, whereas the discomfort of being forced to use a bathroom that doesn't match your gender identity will have a lasting psychological impact.

To those making the parents' rights argument: if you want to know everything about your child's identity, make it abundantly clear that they are supported in that identity. If you struggle with your child's identity, then at least make it clear that you are making an effort to understand and support them.

Ultimately, the model policy will be deeply harmful to trans and nonbinary students. They're kids. They should be safe and welcomed in school.


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p dir="ltr">As a mother of a trans gender child and a teacher I am absolutely appalled by the policy changes. My child has my complete support to be themselves but not every child has this same support at home. I can’t understand why anyone would create a policy that would create a school environment that isn’t supportive of ALL students. How is this policy beneficial to anyone? This policy would literally cause harm to Virginia youth that are trans gender and not in a supportive home by increasing the rate of suicide. What kind of a person puts their political success and personal opinions before the safety of children?  This policy could take away a child’s only place of acceptance and safety. A parent does not own their child. Children that are controlled in their homes and not supported by their parents  deserve a place where they can be comfortable and safe.  </p>


Support the Model Policies proposed by the VA DOE

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the new 2022 VA Department of Education's Model Polices. I fear for my female children using the school restrooms, a male who identifies as a female uses the restroom, now it exposes my female child to a biological male in the same restroom. No, disaster already struck in the Loudin County School District in 2021 twice. Why should schools be pushing transgender? Are schools pushing religion? When I go to a school sporting event and use the male restroom, I don't want a biological female using the same restroom as me as I will feel threatened. Facts don't care about feelings! Parents are the rightful adults who need to have the privacy with their children about gender issues, not the public schools. Wake up Virginians!


Support New Transgender Policy and Parents Right To Know

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I can't tell you how student's success in school depends upon parents involvement.  How any educator could in good conscience leave parents of a student in the dark about their student's decisions is unfathomable.  I am glad that the state is pushing for a policy that respects the parents role in their students' lives. </p>


Support new transgender policy with parent's right to know

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents are responsible for minors

As a parent I fully support the transgender policy change requiring the confirmed notification of parents in any minor child gender decisions.  Parents are responsible for all major decisions regarding their minor children.  Parents are in the best position to love, care for, nurture and support their children as they mature.

The educational system should not usurp parental authority and parents' formational role responsibility toward their children.  Educators should not be allowed to encourage children to make lifestyle altering decisions without the knowledge and consent of their parents.

Thank you Govenor Youngkin!


PROTECT TRANS STUDENTS

<!DOCTYPE html>

Protect trans students lives! These are real children we need to protect. PROTECT TRANS KIDS AT ALL COSTS! THIS IS DEADLY AND UNACCEPTABLE.


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Tracey Sullivan
478 Elizabeth St
Highspire, PA 17034

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Tracey Sullivan
<br />478 Elizabeth St<br />Highspire, PA 17034<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148261068" width="1" height="1" />


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Robert Utterback
2501 Scarlet Oak Dr
Rowlett, TX 75089

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Robert Utterback
<br />2501 Scarlet Oak Dr<br />Rowlett, TX 75089<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148260899" width="1" height="1" />


Support Support Support.


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Rita Moeller
2181 Marden Dr
Rescue, CA 95672

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Rita Moeller
<br />2181 Marden Dr<br />Rescue, CA 95672<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148260653" width="1" height="1" />


Oppose! This will Put Kids In Danger!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This is extremely harmful legislation. Many people in this comment section wishes to “protect emotionally vulnerable kids.” Well if they ACTUALLY wanted to do so, they would oppose this legislation! Kids who are exploring their identity should be allowed a safe place to do so. When you refuse, you teach kids that their lives and opinions mean nothing. They learn that peoples love and respect for them are conditional. Transgender people, or even folks perceived as such, are already facing enough harm. Bullying, assault, homelessness, and so much more. By enacting this, you are creating an environment to allow this type of behavior to flourish, thus putting hundreds if not thousands of kids at risk! Why would you do that to an already marginalized community? Why would you create such an unsafe situation for so many kids? Policies like this show NO BENEFIT!!! </p>


2022 Model Policies on Privacy, Dignity, & Respect for All Students & Parents in VA's Public Schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the policies related to transgender and all nonconforming students as offered by Gov. Younkin and his DOE. The policies undermine, rather than advance, privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents. Not just discriminatory, these policies are mean-spirited and cruel.


School is for the kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

It seems that your new law is for the parents.  Your schools should be for the kids, not the parents.  All kids, including trans kids, need to start learning how to make decisions for themselves in preparation for adulthood, and school is a good place to do this.  Parents lack objectivity and don't make the best decisions for their children.  And I have seen parents ruin their childrens' lives by trying to make all their decisions for them.  You should allow trans kids to be themselves in school.  You should not make laws against trans kids, so I oppose this law.


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Linda Pulupa
9114 Parliament Dr
Burke, VA 22015

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Linda Pulupa
<br />9114 Parliament Dr<br />Burke, VA 22015<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148260502" width="1" height="1" />


Protect biological girl’s rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Thank you governor. </p>


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Bonnie Ganz
35832 360th St
Aitkin, MN 56431

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Bonnie Ganz
<br />35832 360th St<br />Aitkin, MN 56431<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148260365" width="1" height="1" />


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Sharon Hourihan
127 Creekside Crossing Ln
Mooresville, NC 28117

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Sharon Hourihan
<br />127 Creekside Crossing Ln<br />Mooresville, NC 28117<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148260350" width="1" height="1" />


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Amanda Watson
1622 Worcester Rd
Framingham, MA 01702

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Amanda Watson
<br />1622 Worcester Rd<br />Framingham, MA 01702<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148260239" width="1" height="1" />


Trans rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

I don't even live in America, north or south, but trans people deserve rights.


Oppose this dangerous policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I oppose this very dangerous policy that will harm an already vulnerable population. Trans kids need to be protected, they need a safe space to exist without fear of being outed to their parents before they are ready. It is ridiculous to believe that parents rights are more important than a child's physical and mental health. I am a parent of children in Virginia Public Schools and I think that this is a bad policy for the Commonwealth and I urge you to go back to the drawing board and think about a policy that doesn't restrict free speech, put big brother in our classrooms, and actively harm children. </p>


Privacy for transgender people in Virginia schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This policy is not in line with my position as a Virginia voter on this issue. I object to this and will not support it as it violates personal privacy. </p>


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Karen Stickney
27 Baril St
Lewiston, ME 04240

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Karen Stickney
<br />27 Baril St<br />Lewiston, ME 04240<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148259921" width="1" height="1" />


The new transgender policy for schools is correct.

<!DOCTYPE html>

The new proposal by Gov. Youngkin’s administration regarding transgender people is correct.  Parents should be the only people involved in such a topic regarding their children. Teachers and schools should have limited involvement and only to inform parents.  Mutilation if children and chemical experiments on the bodies of children or adults to create this new population of transgender people is right out of the Nazi regime of Germany 90 years ago.  Thank you Gov. Youngkin for putting a stop to this experimentation and brainwashing of our children in public schools.  It’s criminal what people are attempting to do to children with topics such as transgenderism, made up pronouns, choosing your sexual identity, and other crazy ideas.  School is for learning about reading writing, math, science, geography and history.  Throw in some lessons on kindness common courtesy, and basic ideas of do not not lie, steal or hurt others and this world will be a better place.


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Janet Beam
9619 Carriage Rd
Kensington, MD 20895

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Janet Beam
<br />9619 Carriage Rd<br />Kensington, MD 20895<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148259920" width="1" height="1" />


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Lori Kremers
5903 Kara Pl
Burke, VA 22015

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Lori Kremers
<br />5903 Kara Pl<br />Burke, VA 22015<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148259887" width="1" height="1" />


oppose - policy harms trans students

These Model Policies state that "The Department is committed to workingwith school divisions to ensure a positive, safe, and nurturing learning environment for allstudents" (emphasis mine). However, the proposed changes to the 2021 Model Policy do not support that statement. Although many factors influence the safety of the learning environment for cisgender students, the gender identities of their classmates is not one of those factors. Meanwhile, whether or not trans or questioning students are given safe--and yes, confidential--space to express their diverse gender identities is an issue of safety. It can even be a matter of life and death. Leaving aside the increased physical and mental harm that could be caused by bullying if trans students are forced to announce their transitions loudly, and to use bathrooms aligned with their AGAB (all with the silent approval of the teachers and administrators enforcing these policies), LGBT+ youth already experience higher levels of depression and suicide. Families that do not provide a safe space for these youth can unfortunately be exacerbating factors. If it is the role of the school system to provide "a positive, safe, and nurturing learning environment for all students," this includes giving trans and questioning students a safe space to express themselves--a process that harms no one--even and especially when that is something they don't experience at home.

<!DOCTYPE html>

These Model Policies state that "The Department is committed to working
with school divisions to ensure a positive, safe, and nurturing learning environment for all
students" (emphasis mine). However, the proposed changes to the 2021 Model Policy do not support that statement. Although many factors influence the safety of the learning environment for cisgender students, the gender identities of their classmates is not one of those factors. Meanwhile, whether or not trans or questioning students are given safe--and yes, confidential--space to express their diverse gender identities is an issue of safety. It can even be a matter of life and death. Leaving aside the increased physical and mental harm that could be caused by bullying if trans students are forced to announce their transitions loudly, and to use bathrooms aligned with their AGAB (all with the silent approval of the teachers and administrators enforcing these policies), LGBT+ youth already experience higher levels of depression and suicide. Families that do not provide a safe space for these youth can unfortunately be exacerbating factors. If it is the role of the school system to provide "a positive, safe, and nurturing learning environment for all students," this includes giving trans and questioning students a safe space to express themselves--a process that harms no one--even and especially when that is something they don't experience at home.


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Ashley Menwer
50 Rubins Walk
Fredericksburg, VA 22405

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Ashley Menwer
<br />50 Rubins Walk<br />Fredericksburg, VA 22405<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148259841" width="1" height="1" />


100% Support Gov. Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents make the decisions, not the government or school boards. Parents are to be notified and be aware of what their children are encountering at school.


Strong Opposition to the Proposed Model Guidelines

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am writing in opposition to the Department of Education’s proposed new guidelines.   If enacted, the proposed guidelines have the potential to be exceptionally harmful to transgender students.  The proposed guidelines also seem designed to score political points instead of solving an actual problem in the public schools.  These guidelines should be scrapped in their entirety and the existing guidelines maintained.  The following are just some of the many problems with this policy.

Firstly, the guideline’s definition of transgender student is too narrow.  A student is ineligible to be considered a transgender student under this guideline unless their parent requests that the school treats the child as transgender.  The implication is that if a parent does not make that request, then the child is not transgender.  But a transgender child is transgender whether or not their parents like it. This will cause problems where a parent who is ideologically opposed to their child being transgender refuses to make the request, and the school is therefore unable to provide support to the child.  Schools should treat all children whose sex differs from their gender as transgender, regardless of whether their parents consent to this.

Second, the model policy states that school divisions should prohibit discrimination, harassment, and bullying on the basis a number of protected characteristics, including sex.  Gender, however, is not specifically listed as a protected characteristic against which discrimination, harassment, and bullying is prohibited.  This could open the door to permit bullying on the basis of gender or gender identity.  Discrimination on the basis of gender identity is the discrimination on the basis of sex, see Bostock v. Clayton County, 140 S. Ct. 1731 (2020), and this policy does have a catch-all prohibiting discrimination on other characteristics protected by law. However, many people will look only to the text of the policy, and will not do the additional research necessary to realize that discrimination, harassment, and bullying is prohibited against gender or gender identity because it is another characteristic protected by law.  Schools should explicitly prohibit discrimination, harassment, and bullying on the basis of gender and gender identity, so that it is clear to everybody reading the policy which behaviors will not be tolerated.

Third, the identification of students section of the model policy limits school staff to calling students by their legal name, or a nickname commonly associated with that name, and to use pronouns associated with that name, except with parental consent.   As noted above, a transgender child is transgender whether or not their parents consent.  If the school continues to deadname and misgender the child in opposition to his or her wishes, it is likely to have a negative effect on the child’s mental health and wellbeing.

The model policy also prohibits schools from prohibiting other staff and students from referring to a student in a manner that violates their purported constitutional rights.  In other words, even if a parent gives consent to the school calling their child by the new name and using the correct pronouns, the school cannot require other students or even their own staff to do so.  As a practical matter it may be impossible for schools to stop other students from misgendering and deadnaming a transgender child.  But many students will follow their teacher’s example in how to treat their classmates – if a teacher consistently refers to a student using their preferred name and pronouns, then many other students will too.  This would have a tremendously beneficial effect on the mental health and well-being of a transgender student.  Even if a school cannot stop other teachers from referring to the student using their new name and their correct gender identity, schools should do what they can to ensure that students are placed with teachers who do respect the student’s desires and will provide a good example to the student’s classmates.

The policy prohibits students from using any bathroom except the bathroom associated with their sex, unless federal law otherwise requires.  It is binding precedent in the 4th Circuit, which includes Virginia, that prohibiting a student from using the bathroom in their gender identity can be a violation of Title IX.  See Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board, 972 F. 3d 586, 618 (4th. Cir. 2020).  The model policies implicitly recognize this by citing to the Grimm case, and therefore the policy seems to actually be saying that transgender children should be permitted to use the bathroom associated with their gender identity.  At best this part of the policy is surplusage.

The policy prohibits schools from concealing material information about a student from that student’s parent, including information about the student’s gender.  In other words, if the school discovers that a student is transgender, it is required to inform the parents.  Parents play a vital role in their children’s lives, and in many cases – maybe even most cases – a parent’s knowledge that the child is transgender will help that parent be a better parent to their child and will improve the child’s wellbeing.  Certainly that was the case with Gavin Grimm's mother, as she became a stout advocate for her son after he disclosed to her that he was transgender.  But there are some parents who are virulently anti-transgender, and who will use the information to harm the child.  This could take the form of physical violence, but it could also take the form of concerted efforts to convince a child to not be transgender in a way that will cause emotional harm.

Of course, there are times when teachers are required to tell parents things their children would rather that their parents not know and which will lead to unpleasant parental consequences. This might include times when a teacher discovers that a child is engaging in underage drinking or sexual intercourse.  But in those cases, the child’s behavior is truly dangerous.  In contrast, simply being transgender is not dangerous at all.

In evaluating the role that parents should play when a child realizes that they are transgender, it is important to remember that while children are not the property of the state, neither are they the property of their parents.  They are individuals all their own.  A child’s decision on whether and when to inform others that they are transgender is a deeply personal decision that a transgender child should be permitted to make when they feel that the time is right.  This proposed policy of mandatory outing robs transgender children of this right, and will force at least some transgender children into extremely dangerous situations.

If these guidelines are enacted, they will cause harm to transgender children throughout Virginia.  This harm is almost entirely preventable, and where it is not preventable, a school’s decent treatment of its transgender students sets a powerful example for other students which will improve transgender student wellbeing.  I strongly urge the Department of Education to abandon these model guidelines and maintain the existing guidelines.


Restore Parental Rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

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

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

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

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

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


Protect Kids' Rights - Oppose 2022 Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

Children are people and also have first amendment rights, just as much as their parents do. This means that children have every right to express their gender identity, including using preferred pronouns or a new name. However, many children have parents who are not supportive of their gender expression, and therefore suppress their freedom of speech through discrimination. Schools with nondiscrimination policies like those included in the 2021 Model Policies allow children to express themselves safely at school without fear of being discriminated against by their parents.

Giving kids the right to explore their gender identity safely at school will help them more than it will ever harm them. Socially transitioning somewhere where they don't have to fear discrimination from parents will give them the tools they need to be healthier adults. Adolescence is the time for people to explore their identities in many ways, whether that be personality-wise, career-wise, and yes, gender-wise. The state SHOULD NOT have the right to prevent that by outing transgender and nonbinary students to discriminatory parents through schools. Leave the state out of children's identity development and do not force schools to discriminate against trans youth.


Protect girls and parents!  Support our Governor!

<!DOCTYPE html>

No more boys in the girl’s bathrooms!


PARENTS, NOT POLITICIANS, MUST GUIDE EDUCATION

<!DOCTYPE html>

We fully support Governor Youngkin's initiatives.


Fully Support Governor Youngkin and the new policy to protect girls!


No more problems for regular/majority of students! Support Governor Youngkin and more restrictions!


Fully Support Governor Youngkin and more restrictions!


I oppose Governor Youngkin’s model policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a friend of the family of a transgender child in the VA schools, I'm writing in opposition to Governor Youngkin's model policy changes. These changes are not only illegal and discriminatory but also tremendously dangerous. This policy will hurt children, point blank.

Everything in the current model aligns with the LAW and what medical professionals suggest. It's disgusting that the Governor wants to disregard the fundamental human rights of our most vulnerable students to further his agenda of hate and intolerance. If these policies are adopted, children will be placed in unsafe situations at school and at home.

Thank you.


Virginia protects female students!  Support Governor Youngkin!


No more! Biological identity for bathroom and locker room!  Support Governor Youngkin!


TRANS POLICY IN SCHOOLS

<!DOCTYPE html>

Background: Parents are the first teachers of their children and have an irreplaceable role in guiding them and ensuring their well-being. In 2020, the Virginia Catholic Conference opposed legislation requiring VDOE to issue transgender policy mandates on public schools. In 2021, we opposed the Northam administration’s regulations implementing this legislation – regulations which severely undercut parents’ rights.

Good News: The Youngkin administration has proposed overhauling those rules and replacing them with regulations that restore parental rights. VDOE’s newly proposed Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents uphold parents’ God-given and constitutional right to guide their child’s development. The new policies also protect the First Amendment rights of students and staff.


100% Support Thank You Gov. Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I 100% support the new proposed policy. All students deserve to learn in a safe environment without having to affirm theories that go against their religious beliefs. No adult outside of the parents should be secretely influencing vulnerable children and teens, especially when it involves life altering surgeries and medication that only benefit the medical industry, not kids. It is SICK that we are letting these people preach their Marxist dividing agendas in our public schools. It is hurting innocent children and creating mental patients. Stop the madness NOW. </p>


Get boys out of girls locker rooms and shower facilities


Protect Emotionally Vulnerable Children and Parental Rights!

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Kathy Koeneman
205 E Pitman St
O'fallon, MO 63366

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Kathy Koeneman
<br />205 E Pitman St<br />O'fallon, MO 63366<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148259108" width="1" height="1" />


Oppose. Dangerous to trans youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a student at a Fairfax County Public school with many transgender friends, I know that this will be a dangerous policy if passed. School is supposed to be a safe space for kids to have an escape from home, and for many transgender children and teens, it is a space for them to express themselves without fear of their parents knowing. This policy takes away their safe space and the kid's right to come out when ready. Also, telling parents that their child is trans can be very dangerous to the kid, as they could get kicked out or beaten. The transgender suicide rates are already so high, especially among teens, and this would just make it worse. </p>


Oppose this: protect trans kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am opposed because this would be very dangerous for trans youth, and would not make anyone safer.


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Joanne Magoc
2258 Enlund Dr
Palatine, IL 60074

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Joanne Magoc
<br />2258 Enlund Dr<br />Palatine, IL 60074<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148258838" width="1" height="1" />


Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Keith Manton
101 Edata Trail
Vonore, TN 37885

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Keith Manton
<br />101 Edata Trail<br />Vonore, TN 37885<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148258784" width="1" height="1" />