Waste of Time

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This example of executive overreach is a waste of teachers' time. More the language of the drafted legislation is non-specific. This opens the door for a bad actor target educators who give first graders a pack of stick-on mustaches. It forgets intersex people exist and might struggle with a binary world. Are we gonna police girls' periods next? Good luck! Hope you don't waste the time of a school attorney when some smart-acting teenagers commit to a powder puff football game. Ha!

Regardless of how anyone feels about the existence of trans people i think we can all agree this legislation is beyond being a damn sideshow. It's a circus. Leave the lgbtq children alone. Quit policing teachers. And for the sake of my remaining slivers of sanity, identify and fix education gaps and throw money at community college access or trades licensure. Focus on making sure kids know how to read and participate effectively in society in adulthood. Hard for them to that if they commit suicide.


I support Gov. Younkin

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When parents allow the Commonwealth to aid in the education of their children they do not abdicate their rights to know what is being taught or how their children are being counseled. These guidelines help remind government employees that they are team members coming alongside parents in the education process.  Since the family is the foundation of society the policy which keeps the link strong between parents and child is the best policy.


Strongly Support

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These rational policies promote a return to an ordered society. Chaos spawns chaos, as we can clearly see. I strongly support the Governor's Model Policies.


I support laws to stop discrimination upon girls

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Protect girls at school! Protect their sports! Protect their safe places in bathrooms and locker rooms. These teachers unions are throwing girls under the bus.


I strongly support this new policy.


Absolutely oppose!!!

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I strongly oppose the changes the governor is proposing. Transgender students should be shown respect, understanding, acceptance and compassion - as should all students. Teenage years are tough on kids as well as parents. Everyone should be comfortable within themselves in order to live comfortably within the world in which we all live.  It is well known and proven that those who are at ease within themselves learn more, are more productive and are in a better state of mind. Transgender students are struggling within themselves to figure out who they are, allowing them to move forward and be themselves. God created each of us to be unique and equal. Our Constitution states that each of us is equal. Let's show that equality to all, including and especially transgenders. There is a saying I can remember hearing from as far back as my childhood, a saying we all should adhere to -- There, but for the grace of God, go I. Think about it.............


Strongly support new Youngkin policy.

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As a grandparent of young children, I have been appalled at the previous transgender guidelines. Children with gender dysphoria should be assisted by their parents, first-most, who may use counseling, health personnel, spiritual personnel or other means as they see fit. Their child does not belong to the school, state, or government. As a retired BSN RN, I know that the literature shows about 80% of said dysphoria resolves by adulthood. I also know that the brain is not fully developed until roughly age twenty-four. Kids are not mature enough to decide to accept life-altering treatments of hormone therapy, surgery, etc. to change their gender. Many stories abound of kids who have done so, and now regret their permanent alterations. Nobody even discussed this phenomena five years ago, and now scores of kids are claiming such dysphoria. It is growing in momentum and many troubled kids are jumping on the bandwagon, when depression and other psychological problems could be the root issue.

The schools have been found guilty of promoting this gender dysphoria to even kindergarten students behind parents' backs. It is one thing to educate about different kinds of people. It is another thing if kids are encouraged and abetted in gender transition, allowed new pronouns, etc. Kids are malleable and should not be taught to question their biological gender.

The rights of self-confessed transgender kids should not negate those who are not. A biological male should not share intimate spaces with biological females or compete in their sports. The first instance violates the right to privacy and safety, and the second is unfair since biological males have more weight, strength, and speed inherently. Title IX was supposed to safeguard women's sports.

I support Gov. Youngkin's new policy whole hearedly.

Sincerely, Sara B. Dickinson


Reject the policy - protect students.

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I’m a high school senior who has been in the Virginia public education system my entire life, and I strongly oppose the new model policy.

As someone who is gender questioning and not out to their parents, it is so important that school remains a place where I can be myself. It feels incredibly affirming to know that I can choose my name and pronouns and explore my identity in school without having to worry about my parents being alerted. The new model policy prides itself on supporting “parental rights,” but I know firsthand that parents do not always know what’s best for their child. For me and many others with unaccepting parents, coming out would mean risking safety and financial support, and getting parental consent for name and pronoun changes is simply not feasible. I know so many classmates for whom school is an escape from what goes on at home. Taking away the only safe space some of us have and our right to choose something as basic and innately human as what name we go by is cruel and will have devastating effects on the well-being of students across Virginia. Ultimately, we are the ones who will be most impacted by these policies. Stop prioritizing parental control over the lives of the students you’re supposed to protect. Let schools be a place where children can thrive and discover who they are.


SUPPORT


Strongly Oppose


Oppose. This is ridiculous.

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Strongly oppose.

This policy would only allow alternate names and pronouns in the school setting at the behest of parents/guardians.

Not all parents, families, and guardians are welcoming to nonbinary, transgender, etc. members, let alone our vulnerable children and teens. Allowing purposeful misgendering is harassment and can be very harmful. My partner is a grown adult and is very sad when she is constantly dead named by her family.

This policy essentially also sorts bathroom use and sports activities by sex instead of gender. We should not be policing children by sexual reproductive organs. That would be traumatic.

We should protect our students by uplifting and celebrating them as they see fit. Let them learn in a happy environment.


School Board Member Supports Policy

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Thank you for bringing common sense policies back to our public schools. Parents are not terrorists. Parents are being heard and Glenn is listening. Keep up the great work and continue to protect us from the woke religion.


Strongly support suggested guidance

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Strongly support the proposed guidance to schools.

Virginia law recognizes the inherent right and responsibility of parents to direct the education, medical treatment, and raising of their own minor children.

School personnel are not board certified to counsel children on the medical and mental health consequences of gender identity changes, whether purely cosmetic, or hormonal or surgical. Schools should not be involved in such therapy or treatment decisions.

Female students (girls) should be kept safe in bathrooms and locker rooms from outside non-female intrusions.  They should also be free to compete only with other females in sports and not compete against biological males, unless it is a co-ed sport.

Trans students should be treated with respect and compassion by school personnel, other students, and their families.  This does not mean cutting parents out of the communications loop with the school unless the family is found unfit, reported for suspected abuse by mandatory reporters,  and legally removed from parental custody.

Education needs to focus on academic excellence, not the social fad of the month.

Thanks for the opportunity for the public to comment on this issue.


Government overreach—infringes upon students’ rights. APA, AMA, & AAP even acknowledge trans people.

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I believe that these policies infringe upon the rights of students’ rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Nowhere in the United States Constitution does it say that harassment is free speech. What logical reason is there for there for a parent to need to know about the decision of their child in regards to something as simple as pronouns? It’s government overreach. Students in many other states are also allowed to pursue sporting activities that align with their identity. This should be the case in Virginia as well. States should be revising their policies to reflect the guidances of the American Psychological Association, American Medical Association, and American Academy of Pediatrics—that people who identify as a gender different than theirs assigned at birth *are* whatever gender they identify as.


Government overreach— infringes upon right to life, liberty, & pursuit of happiness

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I believe that these policies infringe upon the rights of students’ rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Nowhere in the United States Constitution does it say that harassment is free speech. What logical reason is there for there for a parent to need to know about the decision of their child in regards to something as simple as pronouns? It’s government overreach. Students in many other states are also allowed to pursue sporting activities that align with their identity. This should be the case in Virginia as well.


Support

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Keep parents informed about their kids or get out of education. Those are the choices.

Srong support for these guidelines.


Thank you Governor Youngkin..  I stand with you

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Thank you Governor for standing with parents.  They are our kids and our kids only.  Teachers are only there to perform the job of teaching our kids how to read, math, science and real history.  NOT indoctrinate them with this woke mess.  That is our job as parents to educate them about this nonsense if and when they ask us.


TRANSGENDER POLICEY IN SCHOOLS AND OTHER WISE


Strongly Oppose

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Our country is based on freedom and acceptance. This policy is based on repression and bias. We should allow people to be themselves at all ages. It harms no one. There are people who may disagree with how they live life but it is not there business nor right to direct them to act differently just because they don't understand or they have inherent biases.


I strongly oppose this anti-trans policy

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This policy change is morally repugnant, and is out of step with the will of the VA electorate.  Trans rights are human rights.


Opposed

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<p>Oppose - the new policies are discriminatory </p>


Support new policies

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

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


Oppose


This is the exact opposite of limited government

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Republicans - no one actually believes that you are the party of limited government. Stop telling kids what they can and can't do with their bodies - it should be their call, not yours


I strongly oppose.

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This is absolutely appalling after we fought so hard to allow these kids to finally be allowed to be seen as they are. It should be of no issue to allow a person, adult or child, to be addressed as how they see themselves and allow usage of facilities they feel the most safest in. Adults can be kids' worst bullies because of their fears, or own beliefs, and we should be supporting them. I have raised two transgender children who have thrived once they were able to be called the names and pronouns they preferred and did not have to wait until they came home to use the bathroom.  A child who doesn't feel safe at home, and then not safe at school, which is the second place they spend most of their time at, will more than likely lead to mental health issues and an increase in self harm.  Allowing them a safe place to be themselves drastically reduces these chances from happening. If parents are really that worried about their kids, maybe it is time for them to lose the ego and really talk and listen to these kids to see where they are at. Virginia has done better and can do better. Leave these kids alone.


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Support Governor Youngkin's revised policy


I oppose the the proposed revisions.

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I oppose the the proposed revisions. I support the current policy without revisions.


I strongly support it.


Strongly Support

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I strongly support the updated to the bill protecting students and the rights of parents. There are many things we can do to support our students without taking away the rights of teachers and parents.

I support protecting children within sports by allowing children to play on the team that matches their biological sex.


Revisions Must be Guided By Experts such as the National Association of School Psychologists

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Please rely on the experts, such as the nonpartisan National Association of School Psychologists, when considering updates to the 2021 "Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Youth in Virginia's Public Schools" (https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/diversity-and-social-justice/lgbtq-youth/transgender-youth). Please do not play politics with our schools.


Firmly Support

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The parents pay the taxes, ergo the golden rule applies.

Bathrooms are designed for specific biological genders;  privacy, safety are paramount.

No person should be in the opposite gender's bathroom for any reason (as was learned in Loudon county).

Not clear whatsoever that there are any merits derived from sending taxpayer $$ to VDOE in Richmond.   Time to cut costs.


Strongly oppose

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I stand with the American Medical Association and their denouncement of such policies as the potential revisions. These policies expose already vulnerable children to greater harassment.

https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/exclusionary-bathroom-policies-harm-transgender-students


I support the 2022 changes

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I support the family and parent friendly changes approved by Governor Younkin.


Support of Youngkin policies (parental rights)

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<p>I would like to express my full support of Youngkin’s policy to involve parents in decisions that pertain to a child’s health and education. I greatly appreciate Youngkin’s well thought out approach supporting family structure that is foundational for any healthy society. Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback. </p>


New guidelines

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<p>I support the new guidelines and our Virginia Governor Youngkin </p>


Oppose for Pao Constantino!


Strongly Support

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Government Schools - stay in your lane!  Parents will parent and make Important decisions about the lives of their children. Parents are responsible for instilling their family values and beliefs. Given recent test results it appears the public schools need to refocus on academics and not the indoctrination of our youth.

Systems are in place to protect vulnerable children at school. Reporting protocol exist should a school employee suspect negligence or abuse. Why does a small subsection of the student population warrant special treatment?

Public schools- you have far overreached your authority and this is a necessary correction.

Academically you are failing our children. Redirect your energies and teach!


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<p>My 10 years old daughter was bullied in school because she said she is straight. "It is not cool, nobody likes you," they said. My daughter, a modest girl, was crying, but teachers couldn't do anything because of this Policy. It is a result of this Document in Effect, I am sure. I strongly support Governor Youngkin's Proposal. Schools are for academic education, sexualization of our kids is absolutely unacceptable. </p>


I strongly support this!  Transgender agrnda has no place in our schools.

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I strongly support this.  Transgender is a mental disease and should be treated as such.  People that protect it are just as guilty.


Flaws in the policy

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The new policies proposed in Virginia do not act in favor of the students. Rather, they take away a student's choice to decide what they're called. It is not taking decisions from teachers and giving them to parents. It removes choices from the kids themselves. The policy maintains that it protects "transgender students," but the policy's definition of "transgender students" is vastly different from a conventional one. Instead of being  a person whose gender identity differs from the sex the person had or was identified as having at birth, a "transgender student" can only be transgender if they get written permission from a parent (IV-B-3). This definition simply denies that many students are or can be transgender. Transgender youth have an alarmingly high suicide rate, which would almost certainly be worsened by denying their gender identity. This policy is inherently harmful to and acting against the interest of transgender adolescents.

LB;, A. A. C. S. L. D. S. S. M. I. (n.d.). Suicidality among transgender youth: Elucidating the role of Interpersonal Risk Factors. Journal of interpersonal violence. Retrieved October 5, 2022, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32345113/

“Transgender.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transgender. Accessed 5 Oct. 2022.


Oppose changes to policy

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Dear Mr Youngkin,

Young people have enough to worry about without the government making things more difficult. Some kids that feel they are transgender can’t express that to their families as it may not be an accepting place for them. Please let them feel safe in school and leave the policy alone. Being transgender is hard enough.


Strongly Support

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<p>Respect NATURE and SCIENCE! Kids are not mentally stable and mature, so they need scientific guidance and professional counselling, rather than "whatever you feel like or want to be". They need time to explore and sort through and eventually figure out who they are. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>


Fully support

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Fully support Youngkin and his common sense approach to this topic


Thank You. I support this.

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We as parents reserve the absolute right to protect our children from indoctrination and ideals that go against our faith and morals

Thank you for acknowledging the over 9,000 comments posted against the 2021 decision


Do not lessen or remove protections for Trans kids

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We discriminated against Italians, then we realized that was stupid, Catholics, that was stupid, Jews, that was stupid, African Americans, that was stupid, women, that was stupid, gay people, that was stupid. Every time we grow and increase acceptance, there is an instinct in some portion of the population to discriminate and push back against that growth and improvement in our society. Trans people are just the most recent group. It's stupid not to offer them the same support and acceptance as every other group. Of course it will feel like change and they will become more visible in society as we show acceptance and suicide rates fall. This is a good thing. Help, accept, support and protect these kids.


I support these policies.

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I support these policies.


Oppose these horrible policies

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<p>The governor is singling out trans and non binary kids for political purposes. Leave these kids alone. I can’t wait to see the lawsuits that will rightly come from these terrible guidelines. Medical and psychological evidence supports gender dysphoria. Why does the governor think he knows better than established science? Stop trying to score political points off some of the most vulnerable people. </p>


In Support of Model Policies

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These model polices emphasize the requirement to respect all staff and students, while simultaneously protecting the righs of all students.  I suporth ese model policies.


Agreement with the new policy

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<p>Give the rights back to parents! Allow kids to be kids and parents to be their parents. We don’t need middlemen getting involved with family business. </p>


Strongly support in favor of all kids

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I strongly support these changes for the health and safety of all of our children.


In support of our current governor

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<p>It’s nice to hear a governor who supports logic, common sense and the fact that parents should be the main influence on their own children and not the school administrators. This is all about beliefs. It’s okay to have contrasting beliefs, but it’s not okay to force those beliefs onto others, especially children. </p>


Parent and teacher strongly opposed

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As a parent, I’m thrilled that my kids are growing up comfortable talking about race, culture, gender, and identity. I’m proud to say that both of my teens are baffled by the new proposed model policies because acceptance is their norm. In the words of my 17 year old son, “When someone asks to be called by a different name or pronoun, it’s just a few different syllables, functionally no different than a nickname (for the person saying the preferred name). Why would anyone object?”

School should be a safe space where all students are treated with respect and acceptance. Calling trans kids by their preferred names isn’t hurting anyone, but there’s good evidence that it’s helping in really important ways. Suicide attempts are significantly reduced when a child or teen has at least one supportive, trusted adult. I have close relationships with my kids. They have been told over and over that they’re loved and there’s nothing they can do to change that. And still, there are times when my teenagers are more comfortable confiding in friends than in their parents. And that’s okay. I’m grateful for those friends, friends’ parents, teachers - for their whole “village” of support. School should be a safe space for all kids.

As a teacher, I firmly believe in modeling the acceptance and respect that we expect from children. It’s also true that doing so makes my job easier. Students learn more when they feel safe. Students learn more when they have positive relationships with their teachers. I’m horrified that the proposed model policies could require teachers to ignore a student’s request to be called by a preferred name. I’m horrified that the state would consider requiring teachers to betray the trust of a student who may have confided in them.

Please reject the proposed model policies. Please allow schools to continue to be a safe, supportive space for all kids.


Strongly opposed!

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I strongly oppose this legislation.


I oppose the changes

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<p>Transgender students should be respected and supported, not harassed. I </p>


Oppose


Protect kids. All kids.

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<p>It's our jobs as the adults to keep our kids safe and to make sure they know they're loved. This policy is dangerous and it treats kids like political pawns. Please leave children alone and find other ways to score political points. </p>


I strongly disagree with this policy!

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I strongly disagree with this policy!


Strongly OPPOSE this discriminatory, hateful propaganda

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<p>I strongly oppose this discriminatory, hateful propaganda masquerading as policy. Not only are these "model policies" discriminatory toward a particularly vulnerable group of children (CHILDREN), but they are in direct contradiction to the legislation that they use to be written. The legislation was designed to prevent discrimination, while these "model policies" engender and increase discrimination against LGBTQ+ students. Glenn Youngkin is a disgusting human being who has no business leading our state, let alone inflicting his rightwing religious propaganda on our public schools. </p>


Youngkin's policy for Transgender students

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<p>I strongly disagree with this policy. </p>


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<p>Parents are responsible for their children and their well being.  Educators are to provide academic education to our children in a respectful and safe environment for all students.  Sexualization of our children in public schools is unacceptable. </p>


I support Gov Younkin revisions

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Governor Younkin’s proposed revisions to the model policies are common sense protections for all school children and for the parental rights to be aware and involved in the education of their child.  I support these revisions.

Jonathan Bishop


Strongly Oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose this bill.  </p>


Support the Governor G. Youngkin

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<p>I support parents rights in the school about their children. </p>


Learn from our mistake at LCPS. Bathroom sexual assaults will continue without change.

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Policy change is needed. Don’t let the pervs on the school boards put our children at further risk.


Strongly support Gov. Youngkin

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<p>Gender ideology has no place in public schools. </p>


Bill does not go far enough. Needs to a felony for males to enter a minor child’s bathroom.

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Common sense to protect children from predators. We’ve learned our lesson here in LCPS


Gender Ideological Orthodoxy has no place in public schools: it is religious in nature

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The ideology of gender change is a belief system that has no support via biological science, and no government anywhere ever should favor, let alone promote this garbage orthodoxy.

What we are seeing here is leftist puritanism! If not officially of some Neo-Pagan organized religion, then a Humanistic equal to anything formally religious, and government should not be allowed to favor and promote it.

This measure by the Youngkin team falls short of properly banning this false, fake Frankengender nonsense: no human being will ever change from the biological principles of gender classification ever, anywhere in a million years, and in free society, we all of course, and especially in our schools, must use the grammatically correct pronouns that fit the biologically scientific gender classification.

The manipulation of sexual deviants being vulnerable is of absolutely no reason for these false, fake Frankengender lies. If one is weak because they can’t have what is impossible to obtain, they need some reality therapy to adapt. Lies are not the solution.

We must as a culture stand firmly against these false, fake Frankengenders stitched together in the labs of leftist political science and further, teach true character for proper self respect, true respect for others, including the truth against someones charades as if so fake other existence as if their biological science facts don’t exist or apply to them.

In time, either our society will be groomed sexually by the abusers of sexuality into the sesspools of such degrading disorders and gender ideology lies or schooled properly for the sake of morality, respect, loving kindness and family loyalty.

This second look by the state school board is a baby-step in the right direction; I will at least say as much. But applied to every school and classroom must be this perfection of logic based upon the principles of biological science:

in free society, no one is obligated to play along with the delusional charades of sexually disoriented people!


Strongly Support Governor Youngkin’s revisions

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Thank you Governor Youngkin!


pro Gov. Youngkin's policy

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


SUPPORT

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This transgender lunacy must end, we have already had innocent adolescents raped and attacked by men masquerading as women. This madness cannot continue, and I support Youngkin 100%.


I Oppose this anti gay bill. Forcing new speech does not change who one is.

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All teens know of the existence of LGBTQ persons. Parents can either have the discussion with them, along with the sex talk, or trust media and their piers to be their only source of information.

Adding this specifically anti gay bill only prevents our children from being who they are. The parents have no control over who their kids grow up to be.

If this were the case:

All of the pray them straight folks would now have straight adults children.

All of the parents that rejected their gay kids and kicked them out would have successfully turned their kids into straight adults.

All of the parents that tried to beat their kids straight would now have straight adult children.

All of these parents ultimately only created rifts between them and their children.


OPPOSE

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Their bodies their choice. Stop policing people so much. People are still expected to be decent human beings REGARDLESS of their gender or orientation. Stop teaching hate. What happened to love thy neighbor?


Support legislation to end discrimination upon young women in schools

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These young ladies are not 2nd class citizens. They deserve respect. They deserve their own athletic competitions, their own bathrooms, their own locker owns etc. Do not undermine women’s rights in the name of acceptance.


I strongly support!


Opposed

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I have been an educator for PreK-12 grade students for over 25 years. during this time I have met a lot of characters in my classroom. They all come with there own unique strengths, challenges and identities. Some students from early on were exploring with gender norms and identities. sometimes parents understood these development experimentations and sometimes the students were strictly forbidden to do so for fear that they might be "gay".  Meanwhile , most students had no idea what it meant to be "gay" all they knew was that they wanted to wear certain clothes because it was nicer and made them feel more comfortable. Or they enjoyed books and toys that had been gender normed in a way that did not align to their gender identification. How sad it was to watch them feel deflated, and question everything about themselves. This is why I knew it was important to create a classroom where students can be free to be who they were as a person and as a student. That is why it is important to create social spaces that allow students to learn and grow mentally, emotionally and academically.

I am no longer in the classroom, many of my students grew up to identifying as adults who still align to the gender assigned at birth. But, some did not. Not because someone indoctrinated them, and not because parents knew or did not know about what was going on while they were at school. They simply are who they are and they knew they had someone who wasn't judging them or forcing them to do anything to conform. All of my students knew that school was a safe place to take risks and explore. That was what they did and they are better humans for it.

Students


Strongly SUPPORT The Updated Policies

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The policy affords transgender students the right to an education in our public schools with all of the protections against discrimination and harassment required by law. It's not unreasonable to require parents to be involved in their children's lives as they consider their sexuality.


strongly oppose new policy on treatment of gender-expansive children

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This new policy violates personal rights, civil liberties, and is dangerous to all children in our school system, especially those who are gender-expansive and do not have the support of their guardians/parents and face potential abuse at home.  It is a gross intrusion of our privacy as citizens and people.  The government should play no role in how a person chooses to express themself, how they choose to identify within their own body, and with whom they  choose to share that information.  This is only within the purview of the person themself, whether minor or adult.  This policy will make school a more dangerous place for people who already face an undue burden of prejudice and abuse.


Oppose


Oppose

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It is no surprise that Youngkin is doing this because he does not value all children equally and wants to impose his beliefs on others. Typical for a guy like this. I oppose the changes.


Strongly Oppose to Glenn Youngkin Killing Children.

Trans Men are Men, Trans Women are Women, Nonbinary People are Nonbinary

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It completely baffles me that conservatives actually care what the hell other people do with their lives. A trans person being trans does not effect you, it only effects the trans person themselves, as they are the one transitioning. This new policy opens up the possibility for more kids to develop mental health issues (even more than what we already have, seriously, Virginia needs to work on making kids not want to die), which could lead to self-harm, isolation, and suicide. Misgendering kids leads to suicide. Deadnaming kids leads to suicide. This policy also open up the possibility for a kid to get abused by their parents after being forcibly outed by the school. These abusive parents will berate these kids, beat them, throw them out, even kill them. This stuff happens, and way too many people are ignoring it. I know there's about a million people in this state who would overlook this, thinking I'm overreacting and sensationalizing this, and they would be wrong. I've seen it happen. It's a tragedy to lose a child to murder or suicide and yet there are still conservatives that would let it happen without a second thought. What ever happened to protecting our kids?


In support of Gov Youngkin's change to trans policy in school

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I strongly support Gov Youngkin's change to the pubic schools policy towards trans students.

Biological males remain biological males regardless of what they "self identify as", pill they take or surgery they have.  Likewise, biological females remain biological females.

Neither male nor female students should be forced to tolerate anyone in their locker rooms, bathroom or on their sports team that is of the opposite biological sex.  If a child chooses to self identify as other than their biological sex and they don't want to use facilities for their biological sex, they should use private rest rooms and locker rooms.  Perhaps those who support children being transitioned should develop trans sports leagues for those who wish to participate in sports so everyone has a fair shot at their chosen sport, after all, it is all about fairness, right?  Biological females compete against biological females, biological males compete against biological males and trans compete against trans.

Just because you choose to be a cat, doesn't make you a cat, likewise if you choose to "be the opposite sex, doesn't make you the opposite sex.


Strongly Oppose

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“1.  The [School Division] prohibits all discrimination, harassment, and bullying based on actual national origin, race, religion, sex, disability, political beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by law.”

And yet here you are discriminating against queer kids who just want basic rights at school.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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This policy is dangerous and unnecessary. Using children for political gain is disgusting.  This policy does affect our family directly and I find it hurtful and ridiculous.  Why force kids to come out to parents who could be abusive? Why in the world is this the government's job? Now all of these transgender kids are at more risk than what they were already facing for not following the typical cisgender route through life.  And why does the state government need to be involved in what bathroom a person uses?  Please find something better to do with your time.


Support. Parents have rights

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I strongly support the new proposal from governor. While I respect everyone’s rights, our children who are not comfortable with current policies have no voice. EVERY child should feel comfortable, not just the minority. A non trans child should not feel uncomfortable going to the bathroom either. Simply make separate gender neutral bathrooms. But let’s those who are born boys and girls feel comfortable using a restroom


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I would like to support the "2002 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools".

The policy does right by students and parents. Students perform better when their parents and teachers work together.

The previous policy completely replaced the parents with the school. That was unacceptable and unconstitutional.

The previous policy assumed parents were not safe. While that is unfortunately the case in some households, that is not the case in most households. When there is a history of or a strong suspicion of abuse, then school have protocols they must follow as mandatory reporters. Other than such exceptions, parents should never be excluded, and should always be seen as the primary stakeholders when it comes to their minor child's life.

Well done with this policy - it protects all students; it respects all students and parents; it addresses bullying.


Younkin's Proposal

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<p>Parents should be first in the decision making process of their child's life. It is not the school's responsibility. The school's teachers are  responsible for  teaching  academic subjects. </p>


Parental Rights

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I support Parents rights.  Schools should be teaching academics, full stop.  Biological girls should use girls bathrooms/locker rooms and biological boys should use boys bathrooms/locker rooms.  Respect for all and leave your political views at home.


Strongly oppose

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This new policy is hateful and will cause so much harm to students. STRONGLY OPPOSE


I strongly disagree


Strongly OPPOSE

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I am the mother of a transgender child that uses pronouns they/them/theirs.  I strongly oppose this bill because each individual in a free society has the right to be addressed by the name they choose and by the gender they identify with.  Diversity and inclusion are part of my Virginia public schools goals/mandates and enabling a bill such as this would diverge from such a vision.  To enforce people to conform to a binary way of thinking is closed minded.  Parents should use this opportunity to talk to their children about different lifestyle choices, rather than protest differences that make them feel uncomfortable because of their spirituality or religion.

Sexual assault and transgender issues have nothing to do with each other. I am infuriated by people thinking this has a correlation.  Sexual assault is about power and control of another person through sex and has nothing to do with gender!  Worries of this is fear mongering by groups opposed to LBGTQ rights. Gender neutral bathrooms are the way of the future and make sense to me. They seem cost effective and space saving.


Please develop a more inclusive model policy

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Please develop a model policy that encourages respect for students' autonomy by allowing them to be referred to in the manner of their choosing (independent of parental direction) for their name and their gender identity/pronouns, and allowing them to play on sports teams that match their gender identity.

Modeling inclusivity and respect for student choices and expression is important to create a safe and positive learning environment for all of our students.


I strongly oppose

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<p>This policy places lives in danger. Start focusing on real problems and stop picking on vulnerable children. </p>


public school transgender policy change

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I support Governor Youngkin's 2022 changes to keep parents as the providers of non-academic school content.


Strongly Oppose

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With all of the challenges facing our schools, our teachers, our students, and our parents, you'd think we could find something more meaningful to do with our time. Instead, we have to drum up fear and panic, and work to single out a group of kids. If someone isn't comfortable being out to their family, maybe they aren't ready for that. Or maybe their family isn't ready. Why is the school trying to insert itself into the matter? I strongly disapprove of this proposal, and the fear and hatred it preys on. This choice is not the school's to make.


I STRONGLY OPPOSE

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allow all to have autonomy. not all families are supportive and school happens to be a safe space for countless kids. your politics and beliefs should not dictate other people's lives. you are actively HURTING your community.


Strongly Oppose

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As a parent and voter in Virginia, I strongly oppose these guidelines and urge the VDOE to not adopt them.


I support

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I support this policy. It is not about hate, transgender students' rights should be respected, but not at the expense of everyone else's rights. I am against compelled speech (because where does that stop and who will decide where it stops?). And I believe that parents should be closely involved in their child's education and care. School is a place of education not a stage for political arguments and pushing agenda.


Parents need to know what's going on with their children

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As teachers we are urged to communicate with parents about all aspects of a student's performance and well-being in the classroom.  Cutting parents out of the equation ONLY when it comes to their child's confusion or distress over gender makes absolutely no sense.  Thank you Gov. Youngkin for trying to bring back some sanity to the public school system.


strongly OPPOSE

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<p>This is a hateful policy that disrespects students--to insist on calling a student by a name that does not fit their vision of themselves is offensive in every way.  The whole policy is mean spirited  and cruel.  </p>


Can’t you find something better to do?

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<p>This policy is meant to single out trans-kids and not in a good way. I can’t understand why we can’t let kids be who they are?  Why does everyone have to have an opinion about someone else’s life?  For a party so consumed with “limited government control” they sure do want to make a bunch of laws that negatively affect women, children and people of color all while claiming they’re spreading Gods word. It is total BS. </p>


Reality- I am a confused and emotional teen. -yes we all go through this and turn out fine

Fantasy- I am a confused emotional teen- oh your let’s start ur transition

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Adults living in a fantasy


Strongly Oppose

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<p>All students need to be protected and feel safe. </p>


Strongly Support Gov Youngkin's Revisions

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I strongly support Gov Youngkin's revisions.


Protect our children and parent's rights

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This is the ultimate no-brainer.  Protections for bullying are already in place and can be enforced. But no school should be allowed to promote a transgender indoctrination of young children who are not physically, mentally, or emotionally mature enough to process this radical new way of looking at gender.  (Scientifically, according to our DNA, we are male and female.  It is binary, folks.)  Parents are still the ones that should have the right to nurture and train their own children.


Not Supportive Of Repressive State

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I am not supportive of any attempt to repress anyone’s rights.  Hypocrisy of some republicans wailing of their loss of freedoms and then turn around and take other people’s rights away… come on, give me a break!


Strongly oppose

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Discrimination against transgender individuals is illegal discrimination on the basis of sex.  This policy also violate the Code of Virginia's Human Rights Act (2.2-3900).

It is also simply inhumane.


Support for this common sense guidance to end deception and promote respect

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I support the Governor’s guidance on the treatment of public school children who experience gender dysphoria.  This guidance protects parental authority and reflects the dignity of the human person. It protects free speech and guarantees that the state will not impose gender ideology or compelled speech in VA public schools. I think that children with gender dysphoria deserve compassion while we also recognize that boys who experience gender dysphoria are not the same as biological girls. Girls deserve girls' sports free of biologically male participants. I think it is best for the common good to keep girls' bathrooms and locker rooms single-sex for biological girls only.   We cannot have more bathroom rapes like in Loudoun.

Managing these policies according to law and custom is a smart move.


Transgender School Policy

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<p>I support Governor Younkin with the transgender school policy. </p>


Youngkin's new policy on school transgenders

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I strongly agree with Governor Youngkin's new policy.  Finally some common sense on this issue.  Parental rights in regards to their minor children have to trump all else.  Minor female children/teens should NOT be exposed to male students in areas like restrooms and showers--just plain old common sense.  Biological males should not be allowed to compete in female sports; we all know that the males will dominate and thus destroy the school sports experience for most females.  Governor Youngkin has restored some much needed sanity to tis issue.


transgender policy

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<p>Fully support the Govenor's policy.   </p>


Strongly Oppose

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I have been in education for 29 years, and I strongly oppose this legislation.  We teach students to love themselves and others and to be respectful of others and who they are.    You can’t tell us to celebrate diversity but then say.,“Except for this group.”  It is not okay.  Teachers are currently having to do training through the VDOE ON Cultural Competency.  I am reading right now the part about creating an affirming environment and ensuring students see themselves represented.  You are talking out of both sides of your mouth.  Don’t tell me one thing but then, do another.  You are not celebrating diversity.  You are teaching hate. You are hurting our youth, and we all know suicides will rise.  We need to teach respect, perspective taking, gratitude, and kindness.  If this legislation is passed you have let us down in every possible way.  I am tired of people making and passing protocols and laws who are not even in the schools to experience what is going on. Don’t do this to our kids.


I support Governor Youngkin!

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I support Governor Youngkin's new K-12 model policies. Thank you for listening to concerned parents.


I Support Gov. Youngkin’s rewrite of the transgender policy

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<p>I strongly support Gov. Youngkin’s rewrite of the policy to protect our children. </p>


The Animal Kingdom

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<p>How many Males Lions turn female in their teenage years? How many female born monkeys turn male? Why condone this behavior in children? If they want to do it as adults have a blast. No place for this stuff in a public school system.  </p>


Thank you governor Youngkin

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Thank you for fighting the teacher’s unions to bring common sense back to schools.


student protest of Youngkin policy

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<p>What a joke.  These kids are clueless, and the parents are to blame.  They should be suspended for cutting class...that's how real life works.  Spoiled, entitled, and ignorant kids needs discipline and responsibilities, not attention and accolades.  </p>


Strongly oppose

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<p>I am a therapist who works with individuals in transition and you will absolutely have blood on your hands if this passes. Please, please think about these humans and allow them to live in peace as they choose. </p>


Forget meeting basic academic competencies. We have to make sure a boy pretending to be a girl

can abuse the sports program and take their penis into the girl lockerroom

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I’m glad the important issues are being addressed


Support

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I support the Governor’s policy!


STRONGLY SUPPORT

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<p>Utterly ridiculous that this is even debate. </p>


With schools continuing to decline in educating and preparing youth to function and succeed

I am thankful so much focus is being put into turning boys into girls. WTFU

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<p>Forget education lets make sure a boy pretending to be a girl can go into the girls locker room </p>


we must fight the commie playbook the libtards are using

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everything the loonie left says we are -  is really what they are

everything they claim we are doing is what they are actually  doing

we went from a stable booming economy to one that is in a death spiral with massive inflation that can't be stopped by the FED although they could cause a massive depression

we went from a safe country to one where crime is rampant

and they release criminals instead of locking they up

we went from a country with energy independence to one that has skyrocketing prices

we went from peace to being on the verge of ww3 with russia and using nukes and biochem weapons as well as cyber attack and possibly death rays from satellites we dont know about    while iran north_korea and others will start attacking their enemies in the confusion of the bigger event in eukraine

expect china to stand by and pick up the pieces without having to use their forces

all this because of LIES told by the loonie left and the chickenpoop spineless way  the RINOs neocons and establishment weenies also seek power and LIE about things which the Bible says are false.

NOBODY CAN CHANGE THE CLIMATE ANY MORE THAN THEY CAN STOP THE TIDES but senile Joe 'the  big man' Biden has found a way to destroy the country  building on the start yobamamama gave him using climate as an excuse.  We have hotter and colder times throughout all the earth history.  All temperature/climate is caused by earth orbit and solar activity.

and dont pay no nevermind to the 5 million ILLEGAL INVADERS and the cartels ruling the southern border to import drugs and even people as sex slaves.  no wonder kamala was afraid to visit even once.

We have one hope and that is for massive repentance and turning to God to worship not all the evil things the loonie left is pushing on us while calling it 'normal' and lying about it sixteen ways to Sunday

Numbers 5  verses 20-24 required ABORTION!

Genesis said Adam was only a person after God gave him breath. A fetus is not a person until the head it out and it has had a breath. See the proof in Exodus where destroying a fetus resulted in a fine but never stoning to death as was called for by killing an actual person.

Speaker of the house Joseph Cannon said there was not a dimes worth of difference between the two parties.  I say both of them are pure EVIL and we need a new UP party that uses what the bible actually says as a guide not the lies that brand name churches push.

As to heaven there are 632 verses with the word heaven or heavens and none of them say we go to heaven.  The bible is clear that you burn in **** or you will be on the NEW earth and can enter the NEW Jerusalem where God and Jesus will be located.  The heaven lie was started by Origen smooshing plato philosophy in with the actual bible and then the orthodox church started teaching that lie.

PREDICTION:  The red wave will be a red trickle but could be a blue wave thanks to Graham and  other useful RINOs pushing their agenda and ignoring the USA as they always have done.


New policy on trans students is wrong

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I want children and youth in our schools to be safe. Stop modeling hate. Rescind this policy.


support for Youngkin

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Strongly support this policy. Thank you Governor!


Strongly Agree! Thank you Governor!

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Thank you for doing the right thing! Nice work.

God bless!


Support keeping girls safe at school. Thank you governor.

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Girls deserve the right to privacy at school just like all of you adults did when you were growing up. Nothing has changed. One segment of society has become more outrageous and demanding. That doesn’t change the needs of girls. They deserve their own sports teams and prohibited access from males in their safe spaces. Stop the discrimination against girls.


If you’re feeling suicidal then please get help- pronouns won’t help you.

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Adults in your life are lying to you. Pronouns won’t help your suicidal feelings. Please tell your parents or a school counselor how you are feeling. Everyone r needs a helping hand occasionally.


Strongly Oppose DOE 22-23 Model Policies

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This policy will remove the support for trans kids at school. It will expose them to more bullying and harassment than they already endure.

Parents have the right to expect a safe and supportive environment at school so their kids can learn without obstruction. This includes the parents of trans kids.

Forcing teachers to out trans kids will only empower bigoted parents, who will abuse, ostracize, or kill their children. It won’t make anyone safer.


Strongly Agree! Thank you Governor!

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Thank you for doing the right thing!

God bless!


Support Gov. Youngkin

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I strongly support Gov. Youngkin’s revision to the states’ model policy, to protect our students and parental rights!


YOU WILL KILL ME

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<p>If you support this proposal, I strongly ask you to re-think your transphobic agenda. I have the right to feel safe at school because I don’t feel safe at home. This policy will harm trans youth. Do NOT support. Those who oppose will NEVER live it. You say to “protect our children” well newsflash most children don’t care whether someone is trans or not. You as a parent are transphobic (and some of these comments reek of misandry/misogyny), not your child. Actually talk to the youth, we support our trans peers. Those of us who are trans just want to be ourselves in a safe environment. </p>


Strongly Support!

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This is about children, not radical agenda's.  The sexualization of children needs to stop and we need to let them be children.  Parent's should raise their children as they see best. (Yes, I am aware that there are unusual cases but that is not the majority.)  We do not allow children to decide when they drink alcohol, operate a motor vehicle, sign legal contracts, carry a firearm, or purchase cigarettes.  Why would you allow them to make life-altering decisions regarding issues they don't even really understand?  Protect the children!


Teens struggle, are uncomfortable, awkward, don’t fit in, question their self. It’s part of life

Tell them its because youre gay/ trans, feed into it, that’s what theyll be

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<p>Reap what you sew. </p>


Support parents right to parent their own children.

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This is not the job of the school or government.


Supporting the new policy

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Let’s turn to God and Bible, and do what’s right in accordance with God.


fighting for children to realize their mental disorders through celebration, drug therapies, surgery

If the family was intact kids, wouldn’t fall victim to the trans fad

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Yes it is a fad.  All kids are confused.  And when they are told oh your confusion and discomfort and adolescent challenges must man your trans and people throw a party that’s what you get.


Absolutely support Governor Youngkin!

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As a parent and educator, I am not sure how the schools lost their way. In no way, shape or form should a school board or district have the right to keep anything from the parents,  period! As an educator,  I would not try to tell a parent how to raise their own child. What right do I have?

No one is thinking about the children with mental health issues.  Some can't be diagnosed well into their teens. They are vulnerable. Everyone is up and arms about the trans child,  what about the other's? Did you know only 2 percent of the whole population is trans? Break that down, how many are in elementary school?

As a parent of a daughter who has a mental health issue,  I support and thank God for Governor Youngkin.


Thank You

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Thank you for updating the policy which protect parental rights.  Thank you for protecting teachers from having to choose between compromising their belief or loose their job.


If we could just start grooming children young enough them I’m sure we could make them all trans

Then we could really have a broken generation dependent and easy to control

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What are people fighting to help kids realize their mental disorders


HAVE YOU EVEN READ THE PROPOSAL??

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The new proposal states:  "All students have the right to attend school in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying."

What's the problem with that?

The new proposal also allows parents back into the conversation, giving them a voice in regard to their child's education.  That's a good thing.

Support the new proposal.


HAVE YOU EVEN READ THE PROPOSAL??


Bullying policies

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<p>This forum is probably just a formality because “parental rights” are specific only to your conservative base. You really don’t care about anyone else and are just going to do what you have to do to gain points with the extremism of your party. You have all lost your way. Morals? Nah. </p>


OPPOSE LOUDLY!

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What are you people thinking???If it turns out your son, daughter, grandchild, relative or friend is transgender, what?, you, disown, you denouce, you relegate to histrionics by radical christians??? I doubt it. That makes you and Youngkin hypocrites. This is just political grandstanding and you parents who are promoting his policy are just wrong.


I oppose

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I oppose Youngkin's transgender policies


WHATEVER HAPPENED TO WOMEN'S RIGHTS??

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Women fought long and hard to get from under male domination - and here we are again.

This isn't progression- this is regression.

Keep women's bathrooms, locker rooms and teams -- penis free zones.

Support the new proposal.


Strongly oppose

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This parental rights garbage is good for some but bad for others. What about the parents that reject their children for being who they are? If you are going to throw them under the bus, then please have some serious supports in place. Oh, wait. You don’t care.


New transgender policies.

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I strongly oppose Youngkin’s policies relating to transgender students. They are discriminatory and violate the principle of equality for all. Government should not be meddling in this area.


Support prohibiting people with penises from using girls shower and locker room facilities at school

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Seems to be common sense but clearly rules need to be spelled out for our perverted members on the left.


Hateful policies

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We believe in protecting the mental health of this vulnerable population and following what the experts say- not going by your ultra conservative moral compass that takes us back to the dark ages.


Oppose

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Get with the times and quit using the most vulnerable to pander to your MAGA base.


I support Youngkin and parental rights --- let's protect kids.

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I support Youngkin's plan to make Parental Rights a priority in the school system. Protecting kids is a number one priority of our families. I vote yes for Guidance!


Vehemently oppose

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<p>These policies promote bigotry and hatred and turn the clock back on equal rights. These policies will have detrimental effects on transgendered children. Quit promoting hate. Worst governor ever. </p>


I support the proposed Guidance Document

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I completely support the proposed Guidance Document that evenly balances the rights of parents and a safe learning environment free from harassment and discrimination. School Boards and school administrators should not assume unwarranted authority to dictate gender ideology to impressionable students.


We support that parents are now restored to their proper place as partners in education

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The previous policies would have school staff and teachers encouraging children to keep secrets from their parents. This exposes the schools to a risk of lawsuits especially. As a mandatory reporter for the BSA (I'm a registered leader) I am not allowed to keep a secret with a child. The previous policies are ludicrous.


We support these model policies

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As parents of two girls--one in elementary school one in middle school-we strongly agree with these policies and are relieved to see the governor and the Virginia Department of Education taking these steps.  These policies will surely protect all students and safeguard parents' ability to do the same.  Our girls are terrified at the thought of having to use the school bathrooms or locker rooms with boys and they deserve to have their privacy protected.  Bathrooms tend to be the source of misbehavior already and the previous polices only exacerbate those problems. These new policies provide avenues for schools to create safe, gender-neutral bathrooms so that children are not forced to share bathrooms or locker rooms with members of the opposite sex.  Parents are in the best position to provide support to their children who are struggling with mental health issues--school staff and administrators are not qualified to handle complex mental health issues, should not make medical decisions for children, and should communicate all issues to parents so that parents can find their children the help that they need. These policies correctly protect parental rights and ensure student safety.


Support! Biological gender for bathroom and sports! Thanks Governor!

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<p>Thank you Governor Youngkin! </p>


Truth

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I support Governor Younkin 100%!!!!!


Biological gender for bathroom and sports!!!  Support!!!


MD and mom who "respectfully but vigorously disagrees" with the school board's decision

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I am a mother of four and a family physician and I “respectfully but vigorously disagree” with the Albemarle County School Board’s decision to disregard Governor Youngkin’s 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools.  I have practiced medicine in the Commonwealth for 22 years.  I have been a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia since 1987.  I am strongly voicing my support for the 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools.

Clearly, the Albemarle County School Board is making another attempt to undermine the authority of the parent or legal guardian.   I would like to argue that that not supporting Governor Youngkin’s policies was a grave error on the part of the Albemarle County School Board from the perspective of a physician and a mother.

As a physician, I have treated thousands for children since I began my medical career in Charlottesville in 2000.  I speak with authority when I say I do not think the average child ages 4 to 18  is fully prepared to make irreversible, permanent and possibly harmful decisions regarding their gender and/or sexuality.  If you disagree with me, please look at the science: a study last year in Barcelona (see link below) showed that the neural connections between the two hemispheres of the cerebral cortex, specifically in the frontal lobe which is the executive part of the brain responsible for decision-making, are not fully formed prior to the age of 18.  It is a proven fact that the organization of the brain of an individual aged 13 to 17 is very different from the organization of the brain of a person who is an adult.  This was clearly demonstrated in a study using brain MRI imaging in 2006 at the University College London (again, see link below).  Every one of my patients under the age of 18 has benefited from an adult advocate who knew them well, in the form of a parent or legal guardian, whether the child was in the medical office, at home or at school. To have the Albemarle County School Board dictate this crucial component in the child’s identity, physical, mental and emotional well-being should bypass parental authority would make me consider losing all hope in our local school board responding to the needs of the children and their parents of this county.

As a mother of four, this is my most pressing question: why is the Albemarle County School Board so out of touch with what the majority of parents in this county has expressed?  It is another example of government overreach.  Virginia parents do not take kindly to being labeled as not having the best interests of their children in mind.  The last gubernatorial election was a referendum on this.  I interact with many mothers, fathers, and legal guardians in my community on a daily basis and can tell you without hesitation that they desire the best in their children’s lives and willingly sacrifice careers, time, money, and even personal health/well-being to ensure their children are healthy and happy physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.  Often both parents are working long hours at jobs they do not necessarily enjoy to provide food, shelter, clothing, and medical/dental care for their children in addition to transporting their children to school, various extracurricular activities, church activities, social activities and health appointments.  With inflation at 9.1% this summer, the highest rate in more than 40 years, and the American economy shrinking by a historical 1.5% and 0.9% this past two quarters, with the third quarter not showing promise of any improvement,  providing for all our children’s needs is a costly and sacrificial endeavor on the part of parents and legal guardians.  I feel the Albemarle County School Board lack of support for Governor Youngkin’s 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools assumes that the parent or legal guardian does not have the 4 to 18 year old child’s best interest in mind.  By default the minor is left without an advocate in his or her decisions in his or her gender and sexuality.  I have great respect for teachers and counselors, but helping a child navigate their gender and sexuality should not be part of their job description.  Such matters should be discussed in the nurturing environment of the home, with parents and legal guardians.

Not supporting 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools is clearly undermining the authority of the parent or legal guardian of kids 4 to 18 years of age who are enrolled in the public school system.  It will harm more kids than help. I would greatly appreciate it if the Albemarle County School Board would listen to the parents and concerned members of our community and weigh the wellbeing of the children entrusted to their authority.  I hope and pray that the Board would respond by retracting their opposition to 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for All Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools.

Respectfully,

Claire K. Akin, MD

Documents referenced:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053811921004274

https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2006.01611.x?src=getftr


Agree with Younkin Transgender policy

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I am in favor of Younkin getting parents involved with family choices.   Families need to take back their role rather than letting schools raise your kids.


MD and mom who "respectfully by vigorously disagrees" with the school board's decision


Thank Goodness for Governor Youngkin! Protect Girls!

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Thank you Governor Youngkin!


Strongly support

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I’m so happy that we FNALLY have a governor who is bringing forward and supporting common sense, positive legislation for families in Virginia. Thank you!!


The policy on revoking protection for trans and nonbinary students is terrifying. OPPOSE

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This reversal is extremely concerning. Students who aren't "out" to their parents often fear retribution, abuse, removal from the home and worse. They are also at considerably higher risk for suicide and bullying.

Look at the data:

November 3, 2021 — The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people, published a new peer-reviewed study in Transgender Health that found acceptance of one’s gender identity from adults and peers was associated with significantly lower odds of attempting suicide among transgender and nonbinary youth. Based on a national sample of more than 8,000 transgender and nonbinary youth from across the United States, these findings further suggest a need to equip adults and young people with the information, skills, and resources necessary to support and affirm the transgender and nonbinary young people in their lives, as this gender identity acceptance can protect against negative mental health outcomes, including suicide.

“The findings of this study are clear: transgender and nonbinary young people who feel accepted by the people in their lives, are less likely to attempt suicide,” said Dr. Myeshia Price (she/her or they/them pronouns), Senior Research Scientist at The Trevor Project. “So much of the research that has been conducted on the topic of gender identity acceptance has focused exclusively on parents. While that relationship is critical to understand, our data emphasize the need to analyze the impact of other adults and peers in the lives of trans and nonbinary young people, as they also have a key role to play in fostering acceptance and creating safe spaces. Doing so will help save young lives.” Trevor Project. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/blog/acceptance-of-transgender-and-nonbinary-youth-from-adults-and-peers-associated-with-significantly-lower-rates-of-attempting-suicide/

It is CLEAR and data-based that support for these youths in schools is critical to their health and well-being and to their safety, both from bullies and from self-harm.

Our schools should be a safe space for our children and not another place where they feel threatened and endangered.

This new policy is not in the best interest of our children and is simply wrong.

Here are more findings from the Trevor Project in 2020.

In its second annual National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, The Trevor Project uncovered some alarming information about gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and other gender nonconforming young Americans: 48% of this group said that in the last 12 months, they engaged in self-harm; that number rose to 60% for trans and nonbinary youth. Even more worrisome, 40% of those surveyed reported having seriously considered attempting suicide during that period; Of the young people who identified as trans or nonbinary, more than half said they strongly considered ending their lives.

“For years, suicide has been the second leading cause of death among young people in the U.S., but we still do not fully grasp the disproportionate impact it has on LGBTQ young people because of insufficient national data collection,” said Amit Paley, CEO & executive director of The Trevor Project, which is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning young people. “This survey — the largest ever conducted on LGBTQ youth mental health — provides critical insights into the lives of LGBTQ youth and risk factors for suicide.” Forbes https://www.forbes.com/sites/dawnstaceyennis/2020/07/15/largest-survey-of-transgender-and-nonbinary-youth-says-more-than-half-seriously-considered-suicide/

Here is more information from Beyond Bullying regarding the disproportionate bullying these kids face.

Is Transphobic bullying a problem?

Trans pupils are at particular risk of bullying. Half (51 percent) are bullied at school for being trans.

Trans pupils are also bullied on the basis of their perceived or actual sexual orientation: when taking into account those who experience bullying due to their gender identity and/or sexual orientation, nearly two in three (64 percent) trans pupils overall are bullied for being LGBT at school.

In addition, more than half of pupils who are questioning or unsure of their gender identity (but who do not presently necessarily identify as trans) are bullied for being LGBT at school (53 percent)
(Stonewall School Report, 2017). https://www.beyondbullying.com/transphobic-bullying

I could pull report after report as to why this new policy isn't in the student's best interest.

I am NOT in support of this new policy change.


This is an anti-science fear-mongering policy

Sara Mitchell, Clarendon Presbyterian Church

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<p>This policy change has no basis in ANY evidence from health, education or social science spaces. Please do not enact this policy, and instead continue to provide extremely baseline, equitable accommodations to all students, regardless of their gender identity. </p>


Strongly Support Governor Youngkin - This is why we elected you!

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Please help get us back to more traditional values!


Support mental health care for suicidal kids- not a free pass to girl’s locker rooms and restrooms.

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Society has rules and laws. You don’t walk on eggshells and give suicidal kids a life without boundaries. If your kids are suicidal, then get them help!


Biological gender should be requirement for bathrooms and sports.

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<p>Biological boys in boys bathrooms only. Same for sports. It is peak insanity to bow to people’s feelings and public pressure. It is cultural Marxism that seeks to destroy a nation. It’s should not be tolerated. </p>


Strongly Support!


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

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<p>I do support teaching of pro-LGBTQ material in the public schools.  At the very least, parents should have the final say in what their children are taught.  </p>


STRONGLY OPPOSE these discriminatory policies!

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I STRONGLY OPPOSE the proposed policies! Research has proven that LGBTQ+ students are disproportionately likely to have their mental health negatively impacted by policies such as these – leading to possible suicide – and that supportive school environments greatly help to mitigate this phenomenon. My own children have reported being negatively impacted by the possibility of these policies going into place.

We need to value transgender and nonbinary children for who they are; they deserve to feel safe, included, accepted, and valued. As a parent of public middle school students in Virginia, I have experienced how working to create an inclusive and welcoming environment, including for transgender and nonbinary school community members, benefits the physical and mental well-being of all students and other school constituents. There is still much work to be done to create these types of spaces. Transgender and nonbinary students deserve to have their affirming names and pronouns used by school personnel, to use the bathrooms and play on the sports teams that align with their gender identities, to have their privacy protected, and the lives of transgender and nonbinary people should be acknowledged and celebrated in the school system because they are an integral part of our community. Furthermore, all people benefit from such a supportive environment that values the contributions of its diverse members.

Our schools should embody the care we want for all our children, including those who are trans and nonbinary. These proposed policies will lead to the polar opposite of the types of schools we should support as Virginians.


Support for Governor Youngkin's   Transgender-Issue Policies for Public Schools

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I support Governor Youngkin's Transgender-Issue Policies for Public Schools. This transgender stuff is a mental health issue and should be treated as such. Let kids be kids and they'll grow out of most of this stuff that's being forced on them. Anyone that wants to mutilate children needs to be put away.


Thank You Governor Youngkin

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


I support parents rights in schools!

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<p>I'm a former school nurse and I do not feel it's in anyone's best interests for school staff to be deceptive to parents, or expose students to gender-confusing or grooming-like activities!  I support Governor Youngkin's model policies 100%.  </p>


I Strongly support Gov Youngkin is this issue

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Let parents continue to have the right to say how they want their children raised.

No child has the ability to exercise clear, adult judgment on their choices until they are old enough to have learned that choices sometimes have PERMANENT consequences.

This is a balanced policy by Gov Youngkin. Please support and make it law.


No more BOYS in girls bathrooms! Support Youngkin’s Policy!


The concept of keeping boys out of girls bathrooms and locker rooms isn’t new. Get over it.

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The only thing that has changed is that the crazies on the left have become more perverse and more daring.


Support revised model transgender policies

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<p>Revised policy to support basic parental rights benefits children.  A child's parent is their most invested stakeholder and most knowledgable historian.  </p>


Strongly Support the Governor.

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Past time for some action to protect innocent kids , sad that we even need this, but we are living in the last seconds of this Earth’s history.


Support for the new 2022 policy. It moves toward protecting the rights of ALL students/parents.

Parent, Doctor, and former female student athlete

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<p>These days EVERYONE is a part of some protected class, be it based on sex, race, religion, disability etc, and most individuals “identify” with some “group”. This new 2022 policy, created by Governor Youngkin, is a small step towards supporting ALL students and parents. The 2021 policy may have helped Transgender youth feel supported, but it trounced on women’s rights, parental rights, and religious freedoms. All students need to feel safe and supported, even the ones with whom you do not agree. Write policies protecting ALL students and ENFORCE them, job done. Public Schools need to put all the taxpayer’s money towards academics and teacher’s salaries, the Virginia test scores and school performances are absolutely abysmal across the board. </p>


Strongly support Governor Youngkin's change on rules for transgender students

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Dear Town Hall,

No child has the ability to exercise clear, adult judgment on their choices until they are old enough to have learned that choices sometimes have PERMANENT consequences!  I have seen (on YouTube) several former teens, who after having gone through gender change, regretted their decisions!  And even more dangerous are those who pose as the opposite sex, just to get bathroom privileges so they can molest the opposite sex much more easily!!

As a Christian, I respect that God made us only 2 genders: male and female, and His wisdom is the best!!!!  And yes, I acknowledge it took me until my mid-30's to accept that I was a girl, because men had so much more POWER before 1980!  But now I am rejoicing that I am a woman, and don't have the level of responsibility that COMES with the power.  I mat be single now (ex-husband's choice), but I believe in the traditional ways - they ARE the best!  Please, let common sense prevail!  Let parents continue to have the right to say how they want their children raised!

R.J. Kestin


Protect Students by Supporting Parental Rights

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I support Governor Youngkin's efforts to protect students by supporting parental rights in the public school setting.  Parents should be part of the solution to their students' problems.  When faced with a problem or need, removing parents from the decision-making process hurts students and parents alike.  I applaud Governor Youngkin's common sense revisions to former Governor Northam's previous, harmful policies which limited parental involvement in their student's life.  Our children deserve the protection afforded by parental involvement!


Educators are groomers now -thanks to DE&I laws

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Gays activist groups need to be stopped - as do adult legislators and educators who think its ok for minors to be sexualized via our public school system-at tax payers expense-without parental consent. These people are amoral and reprobate.


100% Support the Governor’s Proposal!

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<p>I am in complete support of the Governor’s proposal!!  Parents deserve to have a say in the education of their children and especially deserve the right to know what is going on with their children. Why would a parent not want to know what is happening in their child’s school and affects their child?  This has nothing to do with being bigoted or trying to harm students. This is about parental rights. </p>


This legislation strikes a necessary balance.

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The proposal respects the rights of parents and emphasizes the proper role of schools; I strongly support it.


Strongly Oppose

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I strongly oppose this type of legislation. I believe it creates an environment where individuals do not feel comfortable to be themselves. It creates an environment that’s conducive to bullying and isolating others and does not foster inclusivity.


Governor’s Policy is Balanced

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The new policy balances the rights of everyone.  It protects children from harassment and keeps parents, whose rights are guaranteed under Virginia law, as partners with the school system.


Thank you, Gov. Youngkin.

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Thank you, Gov. Youngkin for protecting children.  We need to stop the insanity of surgically hurting children.


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Strongly oppose the proposal - all people deserve respect.  Inclusivity is suicide prevention.


Common Sense Legislation Long Overdue

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Governor Youngkin,

Thank you for putting in place these common sense measures. Keeping a child's parents informed about his behavior at school is a key duty of teachers and school administrators. To suggest that somehow parents do not have a right to such information is at best absurd and at worst a means to conceal abuse and neglect. Such measures are long overdue to protect the children in the school system from those who would abuse or neglect them.

Best regards,

- John Matz


This is hate-filled political opportunism!

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<p>Don't let political opportunists proposing hate-filled legislation manipulate you! It's time to let people be whoever they are. They won't hurt you, despite the fears that have been stoked to manipulate you. Get to know some people who are different from you, and you'll learn a lot. It will make you a kinder person. </p>


STRONGLY SUPPORT

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I strongly support Governor Youngkin and his policy updates in support of ALL children attending public schools in Virginia.  There is never a place for bullying in the public school system and steps should always be taken to ensure that safety and respect are ensured for all students and teachers.  It seems that for so long children and teachers have been placed in a defacto position of having no voice.  They would have been shouted down for not going along with sexual theories with no scientific support/evidence - simply feelings.  Additionally, it is sad that people with strongly held religious beliefs are not safe from the loud voices of the LGBT+ devotees.  Frankly, I did not include my name and email address because I am afraid of this group and the hate that they direct toward people who do not share their positions.

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

Clearly, parental rights are key part of this policy - as it should be.  For too long parents have been left helplessly on the sidelines with responsibility but no authority.

Please leave ALL the policy language and protections intact and thank you for turning the power and responsibility for raising children back to where it belongs - the parent.


I Support Governor Youngkin

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Parents are the primary educators of their children.  When they decide to send their children to a public school, as we did, they do not give up the right to be involved in what is taught in the school, especially where sexuality is concerned.   When a young person is leaning toward transgenderism, the parents have a right to know.

Also, to change bathrooms and force teachers and other students to use "preferred pronouns" violates the freedom of speech of those involved.  I agree that there should be a case by case review and local control, not the big hand of state government forcing everyone to go along with the transgender agenda.


Strongly Oppose New Policy

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<p>As a former educator and now a grandparent to two school-aged children, I strongly oppose this policy.  I oppose that there was little to no input from the transgender and non-binary communities.  This policy sends a clear message that the law is not on their side.  It painfully resembles the history of segregation in restrooms and other public accommodations.  No one deserves to be discriminated against because of their identity, and all people deserve to be treated with dignity.  </p>


I support this legislation

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Let children be children and stop all of this nonsense.


Strongly oppose

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Not that any of you enlightened trolls care


Model Policies for Transgender Students in Public Schools

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I disagree strongly with this new guidance for our transgender students in VA public schools.  I think that it is deliberately hurtful to children who already feel wrongly targeted for their own personal decisions about their identity in an environment that  is supposed to be supporting and safe.  Religious beliefs are for the home and church, not for tax funded government institutions.  Where is the separation of church and state?  Traditional values are for the individual.   Having the right to choose personal beliefs, not your beliefs, is pursuit of happiness.  Those trying to impart a version of traditional values upon other families and their children is archaic and small minded.  Grow, change, evolve.


Thank you

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<p>So glad we have support for parents to be 100% involved with any and all decisions related to their children. We are responsible for guiding our children as they navigate the often traumatic teen years.  Schools need to teach the basics and stop with all the pronoun discussions.  </p>


Thoughts of a Father

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As a dad who pays taxes and cares about the future of the Commonwealth of Virginia, I can only say that it is sad that this has to be in writing. However, I completely agree with this. Children have no idea who or what they want to be yet. Let them grow into adults before letting them decide, and until that day boys will be boys and girls will be girls.


Strongly Oppose

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As someone who has an LGBTQ family member working within the VA school system, I strongly oppose Youngkin’s reactionary and harmful proposals in regards to Transgender youth. For some children, school provides their only safe space to be, and to become, who they truly are. Urging kids, teachers and parents to pretend the world isn’t changing is short sighted and ultimately harmful to everyone. I stand in opposition to these proposals and stand firmly on the side of progress, inclusion, and respect.


Support preventing the perverted left from infiltrating our children’s locker rooms and bathrooms

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It’s insane that we even have to debate whether or not little girls deserve safe places at school. If a kid wants the freedom to choose their bathroom, then they need to be homeschooled and use the bathroom at home.


STRONGLY OPPOSE THIS ACT OF HATRED

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This policy proposal is an act of hatred towards trans people, plain and simple. It would cause untold emotional harm to trans/GNC youth across the state, putting many more people at risk of suicide, and it would put cis passing trans women specifically in real physical danger by forcing them to use the men's bathroom. The final, and most important, point is that I have met people whose parents physically threatened or attacked them when they found out their child was trans, if you force schools to out students to their parents, you will have the blood of children on your hands.


STRONGLY disagree with proposed changes in Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students

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I strongly disagree with the proposed changes to the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Public Elementary and Secondary Schools. The 2021 VDOE policies were created based upon comprehensive research and center the safety of the child. The proposed 2022 VDOE document decenters the safety of Virginia children and places parents' rights at the center of the policies. Such a shift in unacceptable.

The new policy endangers trans children in a number of ways, many of which have been detailed in thousands of other public comments. This is absolutely unacceptable. Because this has been argued thousands of times over, I will simply echo my strong belief that the new policies threaten the very lives of trans children.

The newly-proposed policy is contradictory on its face. Even the "Guiding Principles" that form the foundation on which these policies are based are contradictory. In a section entitled, "Parents have the right to make decisions with respect to their children," (sections II.A.1 & 2), we read that the new policies "shall reflect the following commitments: "Schools shall respect parents' values and beliefs" and "Schools shall defer to parents to make the best decisions with respect to their children."

In this section, it is explained that the US Constitution, 14th Amendment "provides that parents have a fundamental right to direct the upbringing and education of their children" and it is noted that this is also emphasized in the state Code of Virginia. This section is being used to argue that parents' rights must be respected in the context of the school relating to the gender identity of the child. By this logic, If a parent were to decide that their cisgender male child should be designated a female child (or a wombat or an automobile) against the wishes of the child himself, the state/the public school should/would be required to defer to parents in this wish and refer to him as a female/wombat/automobile.

Parents do not have the legal right to decide every aspect of their child's education or experience at school. They DO have the legal right to remove their children from a public school and educate them at home or in a private institution according to their own values and beliefs. However, when children are enrolled in public school, there are many aspects of their children's education and experience over which parents have no legal control.  Some examples: parents do not have the right to decide that their child will not take mathematics or history; parents do not have the right to insist that their child be permitted to physically harm other students; parents do not have the right to insist that their child be permitted to attend school naked, even if this could be justified as an issue of religious freedom. There are many aspects of a child's education over which parents have no legal control, excepting the right to completely remove their child from the public school environment.

Section II.B asserts that "Schools shall serve the needs of all students." The new policies remove protections for trans children, especially those children whose gender identity is not accepted or supported by parents or guardians. Clearly, under the new policies, schools cannot serve the needs of children whose parents refuse to allow them to define their gender identity as anything but their gender defined at birth. Clearly, under the new policies, schools cannot serve the needs of children who wish to express their gender identity at school but will not because, as section II.A.3 states, "Schools shall keep parents informed about their children's well-being."

Guiding Principle II.D insists that "Schools shall respect all students." I call BS on this one. Even within this short section, we read the following language, "All children in Virginia have a right to learn, free from unlawful discrimination and harassment. School division policies shall therefore implement the requirements of the Act in a manner that ensures no student is discriminated against or harassed on the basis of his or her sex." This is passive aggressive language, AT BEST. I would like to think that all children in Virginia have a right to learn free from ALL discrimination and harassment. These new policies only want to protect those which are codified as unlawful. These new policies also want to ensure that no student is discriminated against or harassed on the basis of his or her SEX. I would like to think that no students should be discriminated against or harassed on the basis of their gender identity, regardless of what that identity might be. This section intentionally uses language in a snarky way to make it SEEM as if the Virginia Department of Education has the best interests of all of our children at heart and wants to respect "all students," while using language in a way to protect students on the basis of their "sex" (not "gender"), intentionally using the words "his" and "her" to actively exclude gender non-conforming or non-binary children, and indicating that students have a right to learn free from "unlawful discrimination and harassment," but free only from those types of discrimination and harassment that are expressly against the law of the state of Virginia and/or the United States.


Harmful and illegal proposal

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To cut to the chase, this proposal, specifically §G and H of the model policy, is clearly illegal under Gavin Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board, which was decided in 2020 based on the Bostock case. It is an egregiously poor use of state funds to effectively relitigate a case which decided against a school board subject to this model policy, and that the lawyers in the Youngkin administration didn't immediately object to this proposal is a very poor look for the state of our government. The proposed policy even cites the Code of Virginia, § 2.2-3900, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity, so those responsible for this document are acutely aware that they are violating the law.

If that weren't enough, §D.1 and 4 are clearly discriminatory against non-transgender students, who may chose to go by uncommon nicknames for dozens of reasons, including to differentiate from a similarly-named parent or relative, or to provide a pronounceable english-sounding name for their english-speaking peers and teachers. Placing the burden of providing in writing specific instructions to use another name on the parents of students who often do not speak english is horrifically abusive; requiring that only "nickname[s] commonly associated with" the name on-record is racist and has no bearing on the educational environment.

And I hardly need to re-cite statistics that are well-presented in other public comments regarding the rates of suicide among transgender students who are not affirmed, or how horribly cruel it is to allow other students to deadname and bully a transgender student who does have supportive parents (as is allowed under §D.6 of the model policy). This proposal is fundamentally cruel and represents a major step backwards from the current model policy---a policy which was outright rejected by several school districts in violation of Virgina law---and any school board to adopt the model policy provided by this document would be in violation of § 22.1-23.3 of the Code of Virginia, the very title under which this document is issued!

   Respectfully,
   ECL
   Montgomery County, VA


Strongly oppose!

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<p>Absolutely oppose this and most everything Youngkin does. </p>