Vehemently Oppose VDOE 2022 Model Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

RE: VDOE 2022 Model Policy

I vehemently oppose the 2022 Model Policy premise that the 2021 Model Policy “disregarded the rights of parents and ignored other legal and constitutional principles.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. It is the current document that ignores the rights of all parents and privileges those with specific beliefs or ideologies, per the terminology used in the document. This Virginia Board of Education 2022 Model Policy subjugates students, schools, teachers, and the community to a singular non-secular focus, dismissing the needs of all students, their families, their teachers, and their health care providers. The Fourteenth Amendment, which is also mentioned, does not privilege rights of one parent over another, as this document (2022 Model Policy) proposes to do.

Public schools are secular institutions, not guided by theology or religious themes specific to one sect or spiritual denomination. These 2022 model policies suggest that schools shall respect parents’ rights to make decisions with respect to their children, does this not mean I can scrutinize all aspects of my student’s day? Suppose I’m uncomfortable with the seating arrangement or the way a school staff or teacher expresses their interests during the school day? What if they like classical music and I want my children to be immersed in hip hop? What if I don’t care for the clothing teachers wear and request a dress code policy for students and staff? Will my complaints and suggestions be treated with public comment or even consideration by the school? Are grades and assessment now under the purview of parents? If not, will we need to waive our rights to demand competent assessment or evaluation of our student’s work? These are but a few of the myriad of questions, outside the 2022 Model Policy’s misguided understanding of gender, gender expression, and gender identity, that will arise if adopted. How can the Commonwealth legitimately suggest this is appropriate and the most pressing concern in need of educational policy change?


Trans Inclusivity Saves Lives

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a trans woman and as a former public school teacher, I can attest to how dangerous this proposed guidance is. I grew up in small, rural community. I did not have supportive community to embrace me or to give me language around my identity. I lived in fear that someone would learn who I was and would tell my family—putting me at risk of abuse—or they would simply attack me themself. I self harmed and made plans for committing suicide. Before following through, I opened up to friend and her acceptance of me as the girl I was as opposed to the boy I had to pretend to be saved my life. Without her support, without having a person in my life using the pronouns and name that spoke to who I was, I probably wouldn't have lived to graduation, much less to be the adult woman I am now. As a teacher, I have seen and spoken with transgender and gender expansive students who have been in the same heads pace I was at their age. Having me, a teacher, use the name and pronouns they asked to be called gave them hope to keep showing up every day and to finish their degree. These polices and guidance will put transgender kids at risk. I urge you to vote against them. You have the power to save lives. </p>


Opposed - A note from a mental health practitioner

Hannah Kolodner, Hannah Kolodner LCSW LLC

<!DOCTYPE html>

I would like to express my opposition to Glen Youngkin's proposed policy. The results of such a policy will be devastating for any trans or gender diverse youth in the state of VA.  Ironically, the more fully transitioned a youth is, the more dangerous it will be for them to essentially be "outed" by policies which require them to act in ways that are inconsistent with who they are and where their sex assigned at birth might not be known to their peers.

As a mental health practitioner and Virginia resident, I would like to express my support for the safety and wellness of all residents including the trans community. United we stand in opposition of Youngkin's policy.


School counselor - in support of policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Upon actually reading this policy, I find it much improved in comparison to the last one. These changes will help promote school-parent communication as well as overall school safety. We needed this cohesive and thorough policy to repair the faults of the past policy, which bred confusion and led to risky situations for students. I fully support Youngkin’s updates and changes, and look forward to this positive change!


I oppose the Governor’s new policy regarding Trans Students

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans students need understanding and acceptance.


Strongly oppose.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This proposal would create a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment for our VA transgender and nonbinary youth.


No bathroom and sports issues for GIRLS! Support 100%!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Support Governor Youngkin!  Only education in school!  </p>


I oppose Youngkin’s 2022 model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Governor Youngkin,

In the strongest terms possible and from a nearly life-long permanent resident of the state of Virginia, I oppose your Virginia Department of Education 2022 model policies on the privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents in Virginia’s public schools due to the fact that it is in direct opposition to both

1)our ongoing work to expand and develop human rights in the United States and

2) established best practices related to the health and well-being of transgender individuals of all sexes, ages, races, and religions as established by the American Psychological Association’s “Resolution on Supporting Sexual/Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents in Schools” (2021) and the American Psychiatric Association’s “Position Statement on Discrimination Against Transgender and Gender Diverse Individuals”(2018).

Furthermore, your assertion that  “ compelling others to use preferred pronouns is premised on the ideological belief that gender is a matter of personal choice for subjective experience, not sex“ is incorrect. Again, as established by these two medical institutions, gender is a human construct, and in limiting one’s understanding to sex and gender as binary opposition‘s is limiting and damaging to the development of all within society, not just trans individuals.

Additionally, the use of religious freedom as an argument in this context seems little more than veiled demagoguery, as, in the words of the proposed, we are ALL often compelled “ To affirm ideas that may be contrary to… personal religious beliefs.” Would this not, for example, extend to prohibiting specific foods in the school cafeteria based on a server’s religions belief? I propose that silly hypothetical due to the similarly silly assertion this issue involves religion at its core.

Lastly, if you are truly interested in the well-being of Virginia’s trans population and that of the trans population at large, please follow the guidelines as established by the APA that indicate carving out safer spaces in public school systems by providing education, training, and information to teachers, parents, administrators, students, and the larger community that reaffirm the completely normal and positive variants that are trans lives.

I thank you for your time and attention to this serious matter,

susan C. Stinson

Roanoke, VA


Give suicidal kids access to mental health; not access to my daughter's locker room.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Society has rules and boundaries. It's life.  If having rules makes them suicidal, then get them help! But don't you dare allow males in my daughter's team's shower facility in the name of acceptance. </p>


I fully support Gov Younkin’s policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parents have every right to know what is happening with their minor children! </p>


strongle oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

this legislation supports violence and hate against an already vulnerable community of children. this legislation is protecting no one. are you really that scared of some kids? oh, so scary, my daughter's 14 year old classmate is one of those dangerous transes. grow up.

trans people will always exist no matter how much you take from them.


OPPOSED - This would harm both students and teachers

<!DOCTYPE html>

This would only serve to persecute individuals and possibly harm lives. How many students have to unalive themselves before we see them as people and not numbers to increase you power at the voting box? How many teachers do you have to put in a position where they may cause harm to their students by requiring them to reveal personal information that could cause a lifetime of trauma and damage. the ripple effects of this would be immeasurable.

This proposal is founded solely in hate, division and the pursuit of power. That is not the government that I want representing me.

Also, this would have NOTHING to do with education which is what our schools and teachers should be focused on.


Dangers of rushed surgeries for girls--I support the new policy. (retired Kindergarten teacher)

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a teacher of young children for 25 years, I attest to the dangers of allowing children into the wrong sex bathrooms. Because Gender Dysphoria/Gender Ideology is involved with discussing sex organs, young children start exploring what it means. By this I mean, they start taking pants down in front of each other and touching each other. Children are very vulnerable to suggestion, and this content is too mature for young children in their introduction to the school environment. They become mixed up as to whether it is appropriate to let others touch you. You must safeguard children.

Further, we are seeing female teens completely distraught over rushed decisions to have their healthy breasts cut off. The scars from these mastectomies have a life-long effect on the functioning of the abdominal wall, the heart and the lungs. The scar tissue is inflexible and in time causes scar neuroma. Shame on the doctors for not telling the confused girls what's ahead of them when they voluntarily have their chests permanently, irreversibly scarred. This should not be presented as a harmless plastic surgery.

Ute Heggen


I strongly support

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly support the new policy on restoring parents' role in their kids lives. </p>


Governor's Proposed Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support Governor Youngkin's Model Policies for schools on the privacy, dignity and respect for all students and parents.


Strongly Oppose: The policy will kill children

<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor Youngkin's Proposed DOE 22-23 Model Policies will harm children.

The proposed policy would require transgender kids to use the bathrooms and facilities for their birth gender. This is demeaning to them and exposes them to more bullying and harassment than they already endure on a regular basis. It doesn't make anyone safer.

The proposed policy would reduce access to mental healthcare for trans kids. LGBT youth suffer from depression at a much higher rate than their straight peers. Many of them live in homes that are not supportive, or even abusive, toward them. They need mental health services at school because they can't get them anywhere else.

The proposed policy would require parents to submit legal name change documents to a school in order to have their child's chosen name used in class. This places an undue burden on poor families, families of color, and families in which English is not their first language. It also increases the bureaucratic burden on schools. It would cost extra money and not improve anyone's life.

The proposed policy would allow bigoted teachers to deadname trans kids, even if the proper name change paperwork has been submitted to the school. This is allegedly to protect the teachers' First Amendment rights. The First Amendment was created to allow criticism of the government. It was not intended to allow those in power to publicly ridicule those under their care. We wouldn't allow teachers to use racial slurs. Calling a trans person by their old name is the equivalent of that.

The proposed policy would require teachers to out trans kids to their parents. This is extremely harmful. LGBT youth, as I mentioned above, are often in bigoted and abusive homes, where they have to hide their identity from their parents in order to survive day to day. Outing them against their will can put them in physical danger from their own families.

The proposed policy does not make anyone safer or increase anyone's rights. It is a malicious attempt to force trans kids into hiding, open them to additional bullying, harassment and abuse, and increase their likelihood of suicide.

I don't want to turn straight kids into queer kids. I just don't want queer kids to turn into dead kids.


Support of Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support Youngkins plans.


Out of touch, waste of time, doesn't make kids safer, hurting our school system

<!DOCTYPE html>

This does absolutely nothing to make any children safer. How insanely out of touch is our governor, that the cost of living in this state keeps on rising at a pace that makes having a family here more and more difficult each year and THIS is what he thinks he should waste his time on? STOP forcing your hyper-conservative identity politics into classrooms where it doesn't belong. Leave the kids and the teachers alone and let them do their jobs! We have had one of the best school systems in the nation for a long time but Youngkin and his ilk are actively trying to destroy that with their censorship, McCarthyism of teachers, and obsession with transgenderism. This wasn't an issue until they made it one and now our entire school system is suffering. Parents did not ask for this and the majority don't want it, but this has nothing to do with parents or students and everything to do with morally bankrupt posturing for a re-election campaign. Go  yourself Governor.


Transgender rights vs. privilege

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>  Granted, young people are trying to find themselves. The six hours a day they are in school is not the best place to do it in what appears to be at times a disruptive way. Pronouns, crossdressing, unfair advantage of males in girls' sports competitions... Being different no longer gets one expelled, fired, beaten up or exiled, for which we should all be grateful. I believe that, in an environment where attendance is mandatory, everyone should be respectful and not blatantly exhibit such differences or claim special treatment because of them. Just as protesters don't have the right to block streets, neither students nor staff have the right to dictate to others how they will be addressed or with whom they will compete based on "how they identify."</p>


Fully support Gov. Youngkin’s Proposal

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I fully support Gov Youngkin’s proposal! </p>


Strongly Oppose Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose this proposed policy.  This proposal would create a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment for our VA transgender and nonbinary youth, requiring teachers and staff to forcibly “out” students, prohibit staff from supporting trans and nonbinary students such as using a students affirming name and pronouns, and prohibit access or participation in activities consistent with their gender identity.  All students deserve a supportive and affirming school environment, especially our vulnerable and marginalized populations like our transgender and nonbinary youth.  CIS, Trans, and Nonbinary students are already coming together and taking a stand against this proposed policy through walk-outs. Take note. These young people support each other!  Let them be!


Protect Our Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>School is not the place for this experiment. School needs to be a safe place. Girl's deserve a safe bathroom, safe locker room and safe shower facility. Save this experiment for after school hours. </p>


Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the replacement of a dangerous and nonsensical policy. Children are being permanently harmed in what is nothing more than a faddish trend. Common sense should once again be allowed in Virginia's schools.


stop the Insanity!

<!DOCTYPE html>

The left says Science matters, but not when it applies to changing CHILDREN'S Sex! I do not want my daughter at risk in the locker room, or in the bathroom.   Why do we allow .05% to demand these crazy changes.   provide those few the help they need but leave our kids alone and keep them safe! Check the Stats on suicide rates after a child has gone thru the sex change.   The # goes up drastically!!!!  Stop this now....support Governor Youngkin's common sense!


Opposition to Governor’s Legislation

<!DOCTYPE html>

Denying LGBTQ+ students from feeling any sense of safety or security in schools by potentially outing them to their parents or peers, not allowing them to have access to LGBTQ+ resources, etc. is an attack on a human right. This legislation has already struck fear into many LGBTQ+ students, causing relapses of mental health issues and overall feelings of fear. Many queer students face discrimination from their families, peers, and faculty; proposing that parents should have the ability to know about queer students’ sexual orientations or gender identities puts the lives of thousands of queer youth at risk of harassment and violence. Don’t deny LGBTQ+ people rights to have spaces where they can be safe.


We stand with Governor Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>parents should be included in any decisions affecting their CHILDREN! </p>


we got the kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>furious father's wife, after reviewing your divorce case, i have determined that we definently can get full custody furious father's kid, along with the house and car if you want. </p>


Support Youngkin's Change

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support all rights of children to learn in a safe environment and parental rights to raise their children.  Keeping the schools an educational environment and not a social justice one is where we should stay.


The only people who would support this bill are people who haven’t lived it. OPPOSE

<!DOCTYPE html>

Practice some  empathy, or mind your business. Either is fine.


We support our governor!  Parental support for Children

<!DOCTYPE html>

The operative word is "children."   They should be 18 to make life altering decisions....any policy affecting "children"   should have parental knowledge.   I don't want my kids affected by the current wave of opinion....provide more counseling.


God bless Youngkin and all children

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you for standing up against those who hate.  We will win with love.


Who wouldn't want their girls safe in bathrooms?

<!DOCTYPE html>

We know that sexual assault has happened in school bathrooms where boys could dress as girls.  That is unacceptable. Thank you for standing up for all children's safety.


f*ck off Glenn Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is at times like these that I am ashamed to live in this state. We elected you to protect us, but this policy will cause immense suffering, and Glenn Youngkin knows this. This is Glenn Youngkin’s way of proving that he doesn’t give a damn about the lives of students. I am disgusted and horrified that my school, which used to be a safe space for dozens of students, will become a space of bullying and fear under “Governor” Youngkin. ACCEPTANCE SAVES LIVES.


Support transgender folks

<!DOCTYPE html>

I have a 18 year old trans family who came out to me when he was 15 in tears.  He struggled with depression all because of gender dysphoria and without his friends and family supporting him I'm afraid he would have committed suicide.  He had thoughts of it especially in middle school because he was bullied because at the time she wanted her hair short.  I live in the Bible belt of VA and the people here can be so mean to these kids and adults who are different and not "normal".  It breaks my heart because they are normal in their own way.   We must stop discriminating or we will have more and more suicidal deaths because of the state being so unsupporting.   We need better mental health care and it needs to be affordable!  My child went through multiple counselors and a psychiatrist and all said he's going through gender dysphoria.   No one said it's just a phase or whatever you people think it is.  Please don't discriminate and those goes for all mankind!!


Protect our trans youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I oppose! We need to protect our trans youth, not discriminate and punish them. </p>


Totally support common sense

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents, not the government, need to be the support to the children. We all need to protect the innocent children in bathrooms and give them fair competition in sports.


2022 Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

We support the 2022 Model Policies.  Thank you for standing up for what is right and being our voice.  Righteousness exalts a nation. (and state)UG


Teacher supports legislation

<!DOCTYPE html>

This process is not helpful to trans children. Imagine my classroom when a dozen girls come running out of their bathroom because there is a boy in their restroom? The attention received by the trans community is not positive. School is not the place for these experiments to take place. Let's get back to a nurturing environment where we educate these children without confusing them.


Trans kids deserve equality

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Trans kids deserve to be treated like all other kids. The schools should accommodate all kids’ needs as much as possible including providing safe and private bathrooms for transgender kids. We also need to pay close attention to transgender kids’ mental health.  </p>


A step towards safer schools.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support this. Protect our children. Parents need to be involved in their kid's life. This will protect the rights and dignity of Students, Parents, and the Teachers. Radical gender policies are harmful for children and have no place in school. Sexuality should not even be discussed in school, it has only contributed to sexual depravity in youth. Take this further and end Sex education and gender studies in school, they are harmful to our children.


Strongly support Youngkin's changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

Who wouldn't want to protect our children's safety in bathrooms and fair competition in sports?  Teachers also need free speech and to communicate honestly with parents.  Parents also have the right to know what is happening with their beloved children and be involved to guide them.


OPPOSED - I do not support these changes.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Our schools should be a place where our children feel safe to learn about the world, themselves, and each other. While it makes sense to view parents as partners in our children's education, children are required to attend a school via compulsory attendance and our state should provide the least judgmental and the most supportive environment as possible for all of our children to learn about the world, learn about themselves, and grow into educated adults.

We believe our teachers, guidance counselors, and other school staff are adults in our children's lives that they can turn to for support. A trusted adult outside a child's immediate family/home environment allows our children to explore their own beliefs and identities in relation to their community and not just in relation to their own family. Additionally, a child who is being dismissed, harmed, or degraded in home environments may ONLY have our schools and school staff as safe places/people in their lives.

These new policies target children who do not fit into old models of gender identity. Our children are learning about themselves as they grow into adults, and this understanding of gender identity often happens during years where they are required by law to attend school. By forcing our children into outdated models of gender identity, or creating environments where they do not feel comfortable in telling school staff their identity without fear of disapproval or that their identity may be reported/used against them in their home environment, the Dept. of Education is failing to provide the safe, supportive, and inclusive environment it owes each child in the state.

These policies read as if the Dept. of Education can not understand or refuses to adjust to the needs of our children in 2022. Ignorance or disagreement does not erase need or revert the need to protect and support our children in school today and tomorrow in favor of views and policies of the past. These policies, as currently written, pose a threat to our children and shirk responsibility of schools to provide the safe and inclusive environment for all children to learn. The Dept. of Education can, and should be required, to do better in putting our children's best interest first when designing policy.

I do not support this policy revision. I request the Dept. of Education do their job of putting the best interest of all Virginia children, regardless of gender identity, religion, race, sexuality, disability, etc., before considering any other factor or influence in designing policies. I also request the Dept. of Education ensures they have done thorough research into topics regarding gender identity to make sure they have the current and factual information available to assist in designing policies.

Create the safe, supportive, and inclusive environment owed to all children of Virginia.


FULLY SUPPORT THIS POLICY

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parents/Guardians have the primary responsibility to raise their children. They are ultimately responsible for the physical, mental, spiritual, and educational well being of their children. Accordingly, they should be fully informed of EVERY decision that impacts their children.  </p>


Oppose 2022 Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

Transgender and LGBTQ youth need protection, not further stigmatization and isolation. Statistically speaking, the points addressed in the proposed 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia’s Public Schools policy are empirically unfounded and will lead to significant harm to transgender and LGBTQ+ youth. These policies undermine previous legislation to create safe and supportive environments for our vulnerable youth.


Strongly support Youngkin's changes


Trans rights for all students

<!DOCTYPE html>

Schools need to provide a safe environment for all trans and non binary students. Our students are very vulnerable, and the suicide rates among trans young people is very high.

Why would any public official prevent equal treatment for all of it’s youth? I am so totally opposed to the governor’s initiative against trans youth.
We MUST protect their rights!


I opposed against discrimination and oppression

<!DOCTYPE html>

Leave our children alone. Stop discriminating and oppressing them.  Keep your religion out of our politics and schools. Keep your hate away from our children.


Stand up for our youth and civil rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Our youth deserve the ability to express themselves and declare who they really are.  They deserve to be treated with respect.  Government and schools (and their parents)  should not dictate or dénégation their identities.  Let's make this one less insecurity that they need to query about,  allowing them to be who they are, so they can spend their energies learning and growing in a supportive and nurturing environment.  Our future depends on them.  It depends on their ability to learn.  Discrimination,  in all is forms,  and the stress and anxiety it creates (at a minimum),  only serves to undermine the education and learning process. </p>


Strongly Oppose Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

This proposed policy violates the efforts of public education to be for the education and welfare of all students. It is harmful to students who are nonbinary and transgender or who have gender identity requests of the school and no parental support. This is an extremely vulnerable student population that needs to be protected by the State and not used for religious and discriminatory purposes.


I OPPOSE discrimination and oppression against transchildren.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Stop using our children for political purposes. Children should be free ti express themselves. </p>


Absolutely opposed!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>ABSOLUTELY OPPOSED!! Protect LGBTQAI+ Youth!!! </p>


Support of New Parent Friendly Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

This comment is in support of Governor Youngkin's proposed policy. Parents are ultimately responsible for their children, not the state. This policy makes that clear and protects our most vulnerable children from being harmed, mutilated, or worse.

Unfortunately we had to make this comment anonymously for fear of retribution. The silent majority of people who support this policy fearfully comment due to a woke mob promising violence and targeting people who don't agree with them.


Protect Trans Youths

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am deeply opposed to Governor Youngkin’s extreme anti-trans policy proposal. Policy that goes after vulnerable and marginalized trans children is morally repugnant and indefensible.  Trans kids are already bullied and disrespected enough and they don’t need the state codifying their dehumanization as part of some insane culture war. Using someone’s preferred pronouns, chosen name, and letting them use the bathroom without being singled out are basic courtesies that trans kids deserve. </p>


Strongly Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you for giving parents their rights back. Parents are here to help their children decide what is best for them, they don't always know the right thing to do while they are young and their brains are still developing (into their 20's). This allows parents to consent to the changes if they think that is what's best for their child, but for children who are making decisions based on social pressure, this gives the parents the final say. Thank you.


Strongly oppose Glenn Youngkin's transgender model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The new transgender model policies violates the basic rights of LGBTQIA+ students. All children deserve to learn in a safe and welcoming environment that respects their names, pronouns, and choice of bathrooms. </p>


Strongly oppose this legislation

<!DOCTYPE html>

Transgender youth have the highest suicide rates and are over-represented in the homeless population because so many families are not supportive of their children. Children with unsupportive families are already a highly vulnerable group of people. Legal requirements to out people to their parents and to refuse to acknowledge young people’s identity is dangerous and further threatens people’s safety. Respecting a young person’s identity hurts no one else and does not infringe on anyone else’s rights. Please do NOT support this legislation.


Protect LGBTQ youth!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is well-documented that LGBTQ youth have worse physical health and mental health than non-LGBTQ youth, due greatly in part to the discrimination that they experience and the lack of protections for these individuals. Removing protections for transgender and other LGBTQ youth not only risks even worse outcomes for these populations, but explicitly denies LGBTQ youth the same basic protections given to other populations. There is already a strong precedent in the US to prevent discrimination on the basis of one's identity, as seen by Title IX. Title IX and similar protections for one's identity are vital and should be prioritized for all LGBTQ identities. The argument that LGBTQ people are exposing other youth to ideologies contrary to other youth's parents is blatantly false and unfounded - LGBTQ youth do not force an agenda or ideology simply by existing and we should not need to accommodate other individuals uncomfortableness with our identities (the same way a woman should not need to accommodate a man's uncomfortableness with her being a woman). There is simply no documented evidence or research that this is true - meanwhile there is considerable evidence pointed out by organizations like GLSEN and The Trevor Project that clearly document the severe discrimination that LGBTQ individuals face and the negative outcomes that result from it. As such, please recognize that removing any protections for LGBTQ individuals directly condones the discrimination, harassment, and negative health outcomes that LGBTQ youth experience, setting the US back considerably in terms of its defense of human rights.


Support Gov. Youngkin's Common Sense Guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

The common sense guidance from Gov. Youngkin is very much needed in our Virginia public schools. I live in Virginia and have two grandchildren in our area public schools. Both of them have expressed their confusion about the inconsistent policies about all of this, because the teachers are confused and fearful about all of it and therefore do not know what to do.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


school must be a safe place

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Not all students have a safe and welcoming home environment. Therefore, schools must provide a safe and welcoming environment for all students - even if that means that some parents are not included in some conversations. </p>


I strongly oppose the proposed changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the proposed changes.

Protecting LGBTQ identities:  When a student talks to me, I always ask if they have talked with their parent/guardian.  I encourage students to communicate with their parents/guardians. I offer a Guidance Counselor connection.  If the student is afraid for their safety, then NO, they should NOT tell their parent/guardian.  Parents/guardians may physically and mentally abuse children and teens who have come out. Then, I have to make a CPS call.  If the student is still around -- homelessness and suicide are true tragedies.  I tell students they can talk to me about anything. The rule is, if I feel they will hurt themselves or someone else, then I have to go to someone:  parent guardian, counselor.  The Guidance Counselors are equipped to mediate family conversations.  I am not equipped to do so.

Using preferred names and pronouns:  I do not force or require names or pronouns.  I introduce myself and my pronouns.  Students can share what they want.  Students have preferred nicknames on a regular basis.   Nicholas may prefer Nick or Nicky.  As long at the nick name is not a cultural slur I just use the nick name.  It is simple courtesy.  I want the students to use Mrs./Ms. and my last name.  So, I call them by their preferred name.

The current policies protect students.  This is our job.  We are a public school.  Changing the current policy to the proposed one puts students in harm's away.  The current policies do not limit parents' rights.  The current policies do not harm teachers or other educators.


I strongly oppose the governor’s agenda on this issue. We need to uphold the dignity of ALL!

Patti Glowatsky, Eastern Shore Chapel Episcopal Church

<!DOCTYPE html>

Why are some people prioritized over others?! Schools should be a safe place for learning for ALL students.


SUPPORT!! Parents Have Every Right To Protect Their Children From Harming Themselves!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

They are doing irreparable damage to themselves, and 99% of them will regret it!


Treatment of Trans Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

These kids need support. Schools are often the only places they can be themselves. Not all parents are understanding and accepting. Treating them with care is not special treatment: it’s what education is  supposed to do.


Trans Lives are real. Non-binary lives are real. Intersex lives are real.

<!DOCTYPE html>

If it was true that everyone was either born male or female, then there’s no way intersex people would exist, or for that matter: transgender and non-binary people! These people that literally preach this false reality need to wake the hell up. Trans lives are real. Non-board lives are real. Intersex lives are real. Nobody, and I quite literally mean NOBODY, is born 100% male, female, anything. We’ve seen this narrative of hatred and discrimination; many of us have lived through it. Please don’t let our youth and future generations repeat history. These policies will leave permanent scars on our youth; they probably already have. I know that we’re better than this. WAKE UP.


Oppose the discrimination against Trans youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Governor Younkins proposed policy to discriminate against Trans youth takes us back to the 1950s and 60s. This would be such a step backwards and may lead to suicides of Trans youth since it will promote shaming and self loathing </p>
<p> </p>


Strongly opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This is deeply immoral. </p>


Transgender

<!DOCTYPE html>

Biological males do not belong in biological girls' locker rooms.  Perhaps specific times could be used for those students to use the locker rooms.

Parents have a right to decide on WHEN and HOW to teach their children about genders.  Parents should be notified before any change is made on their child's body or name.  This is NOT the right of the schools to do that.


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

The responsibility of those in positions of power within the US government is to protect ALL people, NOT just the people who think the same as them.


Schools are supposed to be a safe place this isn’t providing a safe place for trans children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Schools are supposed to be a safe place for all children including trans children. Being trans isn’t a choice so treat these babies right. </p>


Protect the mental health of all residents, and esp. those we have made most vulnerable,m like trans

judith virginia lelchook-lohman, American public health Assn and National A

<!DOCTYPE html>

If I wern't already aware of the vulnerability of all youth to the currents of today's socioeconomic and politicaI quagmire, my position as a psychlogist/psychotherapist seeing clients with anxieties, fears and overwhelming stresses, would keep me awake, alert and fearful. But taking rational steps to ease this general situation gives me a method of handling and bettering the situation.

By providing guidance in the form of protective methods of helping our trans and binary youth  and educating the general public, we can together move forward on helping our policy makers and easing any sense of guilt we might have stowed inside ourside. Young people deserve the same chance many of us have had to feel good and strong enough about themselves to appreciate their local VA. educational sxperience. I remember that school was difficult enough without having to deal with additional ethical ( or non-ethical) barriers.

By reassuring our younger Virginia residents that they are all wanted in equal measure and cheered on to do the bet they can, we are giving them the kind of vaccine we want to healh all the pandemics.

Thanks for your attention, consideration and moving forward in a universal way.

Sincerely,

Judith V. Lelch0ook-Lohman,3

Supervisor, Family Service Foundation


Opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly oppose! Protect LGBTQ+ Youth!


Protect our LGBTQIA+ youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Being LGBTQIA+ does not make you a predator.  It makes you more susceptible to predation and hate. This law will make it easier to single out children, will put them in situations in which they feel unsafe, and increase insecurity and mental health issues in these at-risk youths. I see comments here that sadden me. What about making it mandatory to have gender neutral facilities? Please stop sacrificing children on the political alter. Do the right thing </p>


Protect girl's sports

<!DOCTYPE html>

Why should boys be able to compete against girls? Where are the feminists? Why should we lose scholarships to males? Why do people think males should be able to compete on our teams? I'm fine with you becoming whoever makes you happy but don't come after my scholarship.


Oppose Younkin’s bigotry and ignorance

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am opposed to Younkin’s plan for trans youth. Keep your bigotry and transphobia out of schools


protect trans LGBTQ+ kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

We need to keep our schools safe and inclusive. These new policies are just a way to push hate and discrimination. Gov. Youngkin is falsely promoting these policies as a way for parents to be involved when in reality 'legal name and sex of a student can't be changed "even upon written instruction of a parent or eligible student" It states right there that what the parent and child wants does not matter. It's not about keeping our children safe or giving parents' a voice, this about a hateful, transphobic agenda and it needs to stop. Why is it always our kids that suffer under the guise of protection. I do NOT want these policies for my children and my schools. Keep these out!!


Oppose Transphobic Child Abusing Law

<!DOCTYPE html>

This law is equal to racially segregated schools and will be seen as such by history. It is morally repugnant to harass children for being who they are and encouraging bullying and discrimination. This Youngkin claims this law is to protect children from a problem that simply does not exist. Children are not going to subject themselves to the spite and hatred and depravity of the morally corrupt transphopic populace simply so they can listen to someone else urinate. Coming out as trans is a huge decision for these poor children fraught with risk and abuse from the closed minded. The law's purpose is not to normalize prejudice. This is no different from Jim Crow laws or anti suffrage laws. Discrimination is wrong and the people who vote in favor of this disgusting law will be seen as villains by history because they are.


This law is nothing but wrong

<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor Youngkin,

This executive action is nothing but discrimination and wrong. How are we supposed to protect our youth at school if the risk of bullying and even at home abuse is more likely with this abominable reversion after years of trans youth already fighting. It is a vile and unlawful violation of human rights and youth individuality. We cannot say that we are a state for lovers if we do not love everyone regardless of identity, culture, religion or race. I hope the courts fight you on this one.

An Angry Alumni of BWHS in LCPS


Against update to Trans policies in Schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor Youngkin,

I strongly oppose the updated policies for Trans students. Trans youth are real, and to be Trans is confusing and hard enough without being singled out by your school/local government. Please support these children. In a time when are children already face and uphill battle to maintain their mental health we do not need the state imposing more stress.

Regards,


I do not support this decision

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I do not support this at all Youngkin </p>


I oppose the proposed guidelines

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support the LGBTQIA youth and strongly oppose the new guidelines that Governor Younkin has proposed it removes the right of the parents to raise their children in a safe space. Trans kids deserve the safety that schools should provide to all students regardless of gender, race, sexuality, nationality, or religious beliefs. </p>


Support for Governor Younkin-Common Sense

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a common sense situation and should never have been placed in a political forum. Male and female, God created us, we are separate beings. A few examples of the differences beside the reproductive system are: men have larger skulls, men's shoulders are higher and wider, female thorax is narrower, male torso is shorter, female pelvis is wider, male arms are longer, and legs are longer in males. Even science says that women think with both sides of her brain whereas the man mainly thinks with one side. Placing boys in girls bathrooms/locker rooms is asking for even greater problems, one of the greatest is rape which can actually lead to the possibility of murder. Thank you Governor Youngkin for standing up to this nonsense. To the parents of troubled teens/children, show them some love by getting them some Christian psychological help.


PROTECT TRANS YOUTH

<!DOCTYPE html>

Let them be themselves!!


Protect trans youth NOW

<!DOCTYPE html>

Protect our trans youth. Outing then could very well get them killed. Are you ok with that? Are you ok with pushing CHILDREN to Suicide? Because that’s exactly what this will do. It is your JOB to protect these kids. Maybe, for once in your life you could do your job and protect one of the most vulnerable communities for children. DO YOUR JOB


I support providing whatever mental health services these children and their parents need.

<!DOCTYPE html>

It seems that we are experiencing a crisis where kids are suicidal in Virginia. Governor, please direct whatever resources are necessary to protect these children. At the same time, don't exaserbate the problem by endangering other children.


Strongly oppose. When you protect the most vulnerable, you protect everyone.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Protect trans youth. School should be a safe space for everyone. Outing children before they are ready is dangerous and deadly. This proposed change is irresponsible and immoral. </p>


Why children’s genitals!?? Perverts mind your business!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

If you care this much about children’s genitals the problem isn’t laws, it’s pedophilia! Maybe start with bathroom stalls that actually contain no gap and they have privacy! Or maybe, just maybe, let people be happy.
if I can’t call a transgender youth by the name they prefer, then I can’t call you by anything other than your given name either. No nicknames. This is just dumb!

TLDR; WORRY ABOUT YOUR OWN GENITALS AND NOT THOSE OF MINORS!


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Denying trans and LGBTQ+ students their rights and using them as scapegoats for your extreme ideologies endangers their and their families' lives and safety. Strongly oppose this bill and everything Youngkin. </p>


Support Trans Youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose the Governor’s policy because it is discriminatory and cruel.


Oppose governor’s policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Oppose Governor’s policy; religious discrimination should always be opposed. Trumpist Deceit.

trans. Youth are rightfully pursuing who they are, having the same fights that all of us do as human beings


Strongly opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

This absolutely should not go through. Trans kids need protection and support.


Protect Trans Youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>School should be a safe space for every individual. Regardless of religion, sexual identity or sexual orientation. Enacting these laws will create an unsafe environment for those identifying as trans. </p>


Protect All Students

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>All students deserve the right and protections to be their true self! </p>


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>We need to protect trans youth. Actively discriminating will do more harm than good. </p>


Stop Blaming Northern Virginians

<!DOCTYPE html>

If you come to one of our school board meetings, you will see that this is not representative of northern Virginians. You will see that there are a small minority of outspoken teachers and parents that agree with this nonsense. In general, we people in northern Virginia all want a safe place for our kids to learn math and science. I think we have all learned firsthand what happens when you allow males into the bathrooms with our vulnerable females. Sexual assault is never 100% preventable but we certainly don't need to encourage it.


Human Rights for our LGBTQ+ Community Members

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The statics of suicide rates and depression among the LGBTQ+ community are incredibly high. It would be incredible for our LGBTQ+ youth to feel supported so they don’t face these challenges. And why wouldn’t we work together for the betterment of human kind? The cost of hatred is too high. </p>


Protect trans youth!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Virginia is too good to be brought down with this discrimination. Keep VA free of discrimination of children! </p>


Strongly Object

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy takes away all rights of trans youth and gives it to Bully parents. These kids need our compassion and support. As do all LGBQ children. The state needs to stay out of this issue! State involvement will only cause harm to these kids.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support kids right to privacy. We must support our lgbtqi  youth! </p>


I OPPOSE the guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I oppose the guidance. I have already seen discrimination from students in our son's school and on social media. This model policy/ guidance justifies discriminatory behavior, to an already oppressed segment of our society, and is not the actions that should be modeled by parents.   </p>


Protect our LGBTQIA+ children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This guidance document will on cause more suicide deaths in our LGBTQIA+ youths.  They need someone to make them feel like it’s ok to be themselves when their parents say otherwise.  To strip them of their truth is abuse and you can’t convince me otherwise.  These youths are being thrown out into the streets by the very people who are suppose to protect them.  Give our youth a chance to be beautiful and handsome and amazing and successful adults by letting them be who THEY know THEY are.  Not who everyone else thinks they are!! Listen and accept their truth!!! </p>


Trans rights are human rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I completely disagree with the model policy discrimination against trans students.  You have lost my vote solely due to this policy. </p>


Protect LGBTQ youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

Protect ALL of our students.  Discrimination, shaming, and judgment only lead to tyranny down the line - and you know it.


Support Trans Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Support Virginia's trans kids. </p>


Support Trans Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

Creating a welcoming, supportive, inclusive environment saves lives. Children learn better when they feel safe and confident, and a school should always be a place for a child to be themselves.


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>We need to protect children’s right to self-expression and autonomy over their bodies and lives. Holding teachers accountable to report kids not only puts teachers at risk but also endangers the safety of kids who already struggle with high suicide rates and should be treated with love and respect and not disregard. </p>


STRONGLY OPPOSE—Protect trans and non binary kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a Virginia resident, a parent, and former Fairfax County School teacher, I strongly oppose the proposed legislation that will harm students, teachers, and violate the trusted relationships therein. Transgender students are at a far greater risk for mental health issues and resulting attempted (and fulfilled) suicide. Data from a study that came out this year indicates that “82% of transgender individuals have considered killing themselves and 40% have attempted suicide,” (Austin, Craig, D’Souza, and McInroy). As a public school teacher, I had trans students run to me at the beginning of class on the first day of school to tell me their preferred name and pronouns. They could not handle the pain of hearing their birth name and biological pronouns. Many of these students found sanctuary at school because they did not have support and loving care at home for their true selves. Taking agency even further from these students’ hands and into the hands of their sometimes unsupportive caregivers puts them at even further risk for the issues of homelessness and mental health distress that already plague the transgender community.

Trans students are not predators. Trans students are children and we need to protect them and honor them as we should ALL children. Their day to day is hard enough. They need a haven in schools and they DESERVE to join teams and use restrooms in which they feel comfortable.


Against discrimination in our schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Hello. I am against the governor’s stance on mandating or even recommending that schools do not support any individuals who identify as LBGTQ+, no matter the format of the discrimination—whether direct or indirect. Governor Youngkin’s position threatens the safety, health and happiness of students, teachers, administrators, families and communities throughout Virginia. </p>


Live children need to be protected too.

<!DOCTYPE html>

We should not revert back to a theory of where women and children are property.  Children need to be protected and provided an environment where they can learn, thrive and begin the make independent choices.  We should not delude ourselves that this can always be provided at home.


Protect trans youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>We must protect trans youth, not discriminate or punish them. </p>


Just makes sense to include parents

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you Gov Youngkin for keeping parents involved in the lives of their children. It just makes sense to me, if I have to sign a form for my child to attend a school dance then surely I should be involved if my child is making any changes at school. I support this no nonsense move.


Protect trans youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

Protect trans youth, don’t punish or discriminate them


Protect trans youth


Oppose - Children are not political pawns

<!DOCTYPE html>

A child is not a pawn to rile up the base or to scapegoat or be bullied by the state. They are to be loved and understood.


Lbqt+ students deserve civil and human rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p style="padding-left: 40px;">Gov Youngkin wants to require schools to discriminate against trans youth. OPPOSE these policies. They are inhumane and violate the first amendment. </p>


Trans bill

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The trans bill that has been introduced is harmful to children and their families. Instead of pretending an issue doesn’t exist by creating laws to discriminate against people, it would be a better idea to promote acceptance and tolerance among all groups. People who identify as lgbtqia+ have a much greater risk for self-harm and suicide. Passing a law that essentially tells them not only “you don’t matter” but also “you’re bad and you can’t be who you are” is emotionally and mentally damaging. Also, there are way bigger issues that actually matter— like the unemployment rate in far SWVA, or the lack of quality healthy food in this region, or the number of people fleeing this region annually to find better jobs and economic opportunities. Don’t make trans people the scapegoat— this law just makes it look like you’re doing something when essentially you’re harming a very small population of people while also not helping a very large population of people. Shame on you. </p>


Our family Greatly SUPPORTS the VDOE Guidance on Transgender Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a citizen of the United States, a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and a parent of a first-grade biological male and a fifth-grade biological female student enrolled in a Public School of the State of Virginia (Arlington).

I am writing in strong support of the new VDOE Guidance on Transgender Student Policy.  Our family feels that the new policy should be enacted because it better supports all students, while not harming certain classes of students at the expense of others.  When considering public policy, it is important to cast the widest web of support for all students and avoid policies with harmful impacts to our children’s rights, physical and emotional safety, and well-being.  The unintended consequences of certain previous well-intentioned proposals far outweighed their benefits.  The new proposed policy strikes a better balance.  While seeking to potentially protect the rights of some, certain previous policies deeply threatened and limited the rights and safety of others, including both children and their parents.  This is an emotionally charged and complex issue and solutions must be found to protect the rights and well-being of not just transgender students but all students of Virginia.

The new proposed policy prevents female students from having to surrender their right to privacy to use facilities set aside for females and be placed at increased risk for harassment or assault by male students who claim a female identity and vice versa.  While often dismissed as “anecdotal evidence” by supporters of the prior policy, the number of news stories relating to such incidents are numerous and pervasive and, like all studied forms of sexual harassment and sexual violence, are almost certainly un-reported due to intimidation, shame and active efforts to suppress their public reporting by vocal advocates of the prior policies.  Simply put, the new proposed policy protects transgender rights without trampling on the rights and safety of non-transgender students.

In addition, the proposed policy further protects girls’ privacy and sports opportunities preventing girls from forced sharing of locker-rooms and facilities with classmates of the opposite biological sex.  While not explicit, the policy enhances women’s rights by creating a school environment that does not force them to compete on an unfair basis for athletic opportunities against biological males and thereby reduces the significant and real risks of injury to girls.

Moreover, the new proposed policy does not exclude the rights of parents to remain involved in the well-being of their student children.  We are personally aware of two families whose daughters were bullied online using school-based systems during the pandemic by fellow students into believing that they were transgender merely because they had interests typically associated with “boys”, such as fishing, hunting and camping.  What could possibly be more completely sexist and regressive culturally than telling a female with those interests that they should immediately shed their female identify before adulthood and become a “male”?

In both cases, because the bullying was occurring over the school online systems, the parents were unaware of their child’s psychological stress and in one case, parents were even intentionally excluded from these discussions going on with their child and a teacher due to prior policies.  Sadly, in one of those cases, the child nearly succeeded in committing suicide, but fortunately, the parents were able to get involved and get their child the help needed.  Clearly, keeping parents involved, as expressed in this proposed policy, is a sound decision.  Any policy that excludes parental involvement and notification of “gender-based issues” is again well intentioned but clearly foolish for the same reasons that we don’t allow younger children to drive, smoke, drink alcohol, purchase firearms, serve in the military, etc.

We therefore strongly support the immediate adoption of the new proposed policy.


<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Gov Youngkin wants to require schools to discriminate against trans youth. OPPOSE these policies. They are inhumane and violate the first amendment. </p>


Oppose.  Strongly oppose.  Keep our kids safe; allow us to keep.our kids safe.  Oppose Youngkin


Strong opposition

<!DOCTYPE html>

Creating a lack of trust between educators and teens does not benefit anyone and reduces open communication that benefits all children. Stop letting hate fuel policies that hurt everyone!


Strong opposition


Strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly oppose discrimination against LGTBQ kids. </p>


Support all kids, no matter their sexual preference

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>All human beings are equal. Just because a person is transgender, that doesn’t make him/her any different. They should have all rights just like everyone else. Do NOT discriminate against anyone. </p>


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This is an attack on students rights including trans rights. As a parent, I strongly oppose these guidelines!!! Keep your hatred to yourselves!!! </p>


Support Youngkin's Common Sense Guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support Governor Youngkin's common sense transgender policy that keeps parents involved in critical life choices of their children and maintains gender norms for the overwhelming majority of students.


I support legislation to prevent people with penises from entering my daughter's locker room

<!DOCTYPE html>

This seems like common sense that shouldn't have to be debated. Our ridiculous lefties think it is ok for penis bearing individuals to shower in the same locker room as my daughter's volleyball team?  And why does anyone take these people seriously?


I find these new policy documents cruel and disturbing and reject their reasoning.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This document appears to be a retreat of guaranteeing equal treatment of all students under the law. I find it's provisions reprehensible and cruel to trans children and urge you to reject them in their entirity. There is no evidence that bathrooms are any valid issue, and girls can compete successfully with trans girls.

In a word, mind your own business and let these kids get the help they need. Busybodies need not apply.


parental participation

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support parental participation in the education of our children.


Youngkin's VA School Guidance on Transgender Issues

<!DOCTYPE html>

I STRONGLY support Gov. Youngkin's guidance on transgender policies/issues in schools.

Please ensure that his guidance is followed.

Amy Haywood


Support Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you governor for this common sense legislation to protect the health of our most vulnerable children.  Life is confusing enough w/o kids having to deal with this nonsense from attention seeking adults.


Strongly SUPPORT revised guidelines

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you Governor Youngkin for changing the education guidelines for VA public schools to protect innocent children from gender and sexual activity which could cause great harm. Thank you for putting in guidelines which put responsibility back where it belongs - with parents. Parenting is not a “job”, it is a calling. No parent is paid to parent. If we as a society in the state of VA want to promote social success, we will support this institution.

I have 3 young men in VA public schools. It is crucial to me that their moral and physical health be protected in a place where they spend the majority of their days.

It is also imperative that no student or employee of the VA public school system be forced to speak things which violate their first amendment and religious freedom rights.


I 100% support The Govenors policy to return Trans kids to their biological bathrooms.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support the return of Trans people of any and all ages to the bathrooms and sports of their biological birth. There has always been only two (2) sexes, and will always ever be only two sexes, male and female. To support minors and encourage this sexual identity confusion is not supportive, but rather, irreversibly damaging to them. We do not encourage kids suffering from other self identity concerns such as anorexia by agreeing with them and withholding food. We do not encourage a child suffering from depression to identify as depressed. We help them heal their minds and bodies to protect them from these self harming emotions. These are children and it is our responsibility to help them through this with love and understanding and educating them that they have been made perfect at birth hy the only one who can. Just because we have the technology to surgically and chemically mutilate them doesn't mean we should. Opening the doors to bathrooms ans sports with children of the opposite biological sex is cruel to both the Trans child and biological children. It is not our path. In a high school with 1200 students, the school principal reports to parents that only 25 students walked out of school to protest this new policy from the Govenor.  That is not a majority. That is a small fraction of the school population.  I am confident that most of these kids do not identify as Trans, fully understand what this bill includes, and have been encouraged to walk out from their parents. </p>


Model policies for transgender students

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support the revised model policy for treatment of transgender students for the following reasons.

1. Genetically becoming transgender is impossible because our genders are fixed at conception, revealed at birth and do not change during our lifetime.  Any feelings of displeasure with one's gender is just that - feelings - not fact.

2.   Feelings of displeasure with one's gender can occur when one is a child or teenager. However, those feelings can often change as one matures. It is a grave disservice to a youth to aid or encourage medical interventions in cases of gender dysphoria, because they are not mature enough to make such decisions.

3.   There is much hysteria among some people that allowing parents to determine their child's care about the matter is cruel.  This is false hyperbole. Parents are naturally charged with the responsibility and right to control their child's care, even though a few may react negatively towards their child's concerns.

4.    For school personnel to withhold from parents any concerns expressed by their child is a travesty and intrusion on the sacredness of the family unit.

5.    For a school system to promote, initiate or aid treatment of a child under any circumstance is dishonest, illegal and immoral.

6.   To require school personnel or other students to address or refer to a child by any so-called preferred pronouns other than their natural-born gender is to fly in the face of reality. Reality is to speak to, and about, a child using the pronoun of their birth gender. And, requiring such nonsense during school, with the goal of hiding it from parents, is equally a travesty and non-sensical.


Oppose.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This is hateful and trans kids deserve to feel safe like any other child. </p>


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans children must be protected. They are valid human beings. Stop trying to erase them. Stop traumatizing them. Let them be.


Thank you Virginia!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

First of all, thank you Virginia for your fight for all of us around the country!  What is happening in our country today is so un-American, that as an immigrant from Uruguay who came here LEGALLY in 1966 looking for freedom and opportunities, it seems as though I am suddenly living in a totally different and uglier country from the one I originally immigrated to.

I was utterly confused when I found out that the teachers union president is Ms Weingarten, a prominent Jewish woman, who is part of a group of people who are horrendously persecuted today in this country and WORSE, at universities around the country.  What she should be advocating is the total and complete inclusion of parents in the educational system, which was always the intention of public education and encouraged for the success of the children.  But instead she is fighting against us while poisoning our children with ideas and issues that besides STEALING THEIR YOUTH AND INNOCENCE, will do NOTHING towards preparing them with the kind of education that will deliver for them successful and happy future lives.

FDR was wisely against unions in government agencies precisely because of what the unions are doing: besides politicizing OURS AND OUR CHILDREN'S world of education, they are ruining our youth, our schools, and the future of this Republic!  There is no place for Weingarten and her people in the world of education!  She and her supporters have managed to destroy education in this country to such an extent that we now have dropped way down in the list of developed countries in terms of quality of education.  I hope history is fair in telling this story and Weingarten's name will not be among the most admired.


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>     All the new Model Policies are going to do is strip away the rights of Transgender students, leaving them even more vulnerable to attack, bullying, and harassment than before. Transgender students already have a hard enough time, why not let them figure it out themselves instead of inserting the government into their lives? If the Republican party is really about personal freedoms, then why doesn't that extend to Transgender students? This bill is nothing but a flagrant attack on Trans students and cannot be allowed to pass. Parents - consider how you would feel if your child was going through a tough time and then had their problems exposed to everyone they know? It just doesn't make sense that that could be good in any way. </p>


Support legislation; stop discriminating against girls

<!DOCTYPE html>

Girls deserve a safe place at school. They deserve to compete against equal competition. Men have enough advantages ion our society. Girl's sports and athletic scholarships should be off limits to people with penises. Period!


Support: Parent Perspective

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am writing from another state, where the law is that schools hide kids' identities from parents.  My daughter decided she was a trans boy (after watching a lot of TikTok videos and some of her friends did it).  The school changed her name without our permission, and without even considering if this was the right thing for her or not.

Immediately after the school changed her name to a boy name and started using opposite pronouns, her mental health deteriorated drastically.  She started cutting, vandalizing school property, talking about killing other people and animals.  The school refused to go back to her real name, despite evidence that her new identity was causing a lot of problems.  Their lack of acknowledgement of the harm they did shows that they don't take any of this gender stuff seriously.

In order to get her back to normal, we had to take her out of public school.  It was difficult to find a good therapist, and it was expensive.  She now attends private school (where they don't have gender trouble) and is healthy and happy again, just being herself.  This is called desistence.

Be a good state.  Gender ideology is harming kids and families and does not belong in schools.  If someone is having gender trouble, the best thing to do is to partner with the kid and their family to find the best solution.  If someone wants their kid to go by another name and gender, then it's their choice, go ahead, but we would choose differently for our kid.  Families should not be harmed because of this.

Schools and governments have no business parenting our children, because all families have their own values.  Teaching kids to hide things from their parents is wrong.  Teaching kids it's ok to lie is wrong.  If you want to teach values, at least teach good ones (honesty, integrity).

Teaching kids to lie to their families is bad policy and undermines family cohesion.  It opens kids up to abuse and predation from society.  Decades of research show that strong families create better citizens.

This new policy sounds like a good one that will protect families and will protect all kids, as well as bringing a dose of sanity to the school system.  Good for you for doing the right thing!


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>These new model policies attack trans children; one of the most susceptible groups to suicide. Many transgender children only have the ability to be accepted at school. Parents are transphobic and unaccepting, which leads to suicidal ideations and attempts. Using the new model policies, and therefore taking away the ability to be accepted and safe at school will increase the amount of suicides among transgender youth in Virginia. </p>


Do NOT Support Governor Youngkin's 2022 Policies on Transgender Youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose proposed 2022 policies on transgender youth as immoral and illegal.  I support the policies of 2021.


Protect Trans Kids and Oppose Youngkin’s 2022 Anti-Transgender Student Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Youngkin's draft model policy is rooted in transphobia and seeks to further harm trans and nonbinary kids. Protect marginalized kids. </p>


Protecting both Children and Parents

<!DOCTYPE html>

Friends,

I understand this is a very heated topic held by many concerned parents, teachers, and students across the Commonwealth of Virginia, however, if one reads the guidance issued by the Governor, he or she will see that its primary purpose is aimed for the betterment of each individual child, guided by the pursuit of their respect and dignity. With few exceptions, the state never has the ability to dissolve the rights of the parents in raising their child. The relationship between a parent and child that makes up a family comprises the core of society, and if the state or federal government ever interferes with this without grave reason, society will collapse. This guidance is not about taking away any individual's rights, but instead promoting healthy families and open communication between children, their parents, and their schools, so that their well being is truly prioritized. Once again, I realize that this proposed guidance stirs up many strong feelings on both sides. It is important to realize that the majority of both sides simply want what is best for our children, and this is accomplished not by keeping any secrets, but promoting healthy communication between all parties.


Support Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>We need to stand up & protect our kids. Our kids should be raised by their parents & allow the parents to make decisions. </p>


Strongly support Governor Youngkin's Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support Governor Youngkin's policy.  Thank you for your well-thought out response.  I appreciate your leadership.


Oppose Governor Youngkin's "Model Guidance" Issued 2022 on Transgender Youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a senior citizen in Virginia, little is as important to me as ensuring a legacy of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our schools and broader communities.  It is not enough to "allow" diverse members of the community--including trans people--in all walks of social and public life, including in our schools, to participate fully to facilitate the  flourishing of our democracy, it is absolutely necessary.  All children, regardless of how they identify, need to feel safe and included.  Being included means school officials and all responsible adults have an obligation to encourage full participation in the classroom and its attenuating social life. It is only in this way that I believe all children will be able to reach their personal potential and become active and positive adult members  of our communities. Our society has carelessly and inhumanely placed an odious burden on trans children.  Some of our politicians in Virginia in 2022 have sought to exclude these youngsters by robbing them of their identities and civil and human rights.  Because I feel all are entitled to these rights based on the law and a moral code that holds these lives precious, I oppose Governor Youngkin's 2022 policies!


Hispanics support changes to protect kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

The hispanic community completely supports a safe environment for schools based on learning and education. We do not support fantasy lands where children do not follow any rules. If kids are suicidal, schools must provide resources to help these kids regardless of the cost.


Strongly Support your new Transgender Policy - Thank you!

<!DOCTYPE html>

Your new Transgender Policy for students in Virginia DOES NOT HARM any transgender students, it helps every student when the policy includes parental knowledge and support. Thank you for recognizing that the ‘old’ policy was detrimental to both students and families and was provoked by the effort to “change society” rather than caring for children and families.  I STRONGLY support your new policy and advocate for parental involvement in student’s education and desexualizing education. Schools should be focused on academics and catching kids up from the academic and social/emotional losses experienced during COVID.

Thank you for this opportunity,

Denise Bowman


Strongly oppose this hateful, discriminatory proposal.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Cast aside your biases and your prejudice, understand fundamentalist Christian Dogma cannot account for the existence of trans people. This proposal dehumanizes children, and weaponizes their identity to punish teachers for providing assistance to said children. The lives of trans individuals are commonly tumultuous and it’s far too frequent that a parent of a trans child will subjugate them to hateful denial of their identity on religious or “moral” grounds, there is no logic to this policy - it seems to have only been proposed to harm people who are just attempting to exercise their rights as Americans; to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. </p>


OPPOSED Stop the hate

<!DOCTYPE html>

Why are we so afraid of those that are different from us? This makes me terribly sad and frightened for my students. I think our Governor is promoting bullying and bigotry.


Trans policy - STRONGLY SUPPORT


why do adults want to allow boy's into my bathroom

<!DOCTYPE html>

growing up is hard enough. why do adults want to allow boys to come into the girl's bathroom? none of the girls want boys in our bathroom. please stop this


I strongly support Governor Youngkin's Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support this new policy.  This is a well-thought out response.  Thank you for your leadership in this area.


Trans policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly support Governor’s policy. Thanks!


STRONGLY SUPPORT GOV YOUNGKIN'S new guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

Governor Youngkin's new guidance is completely reasonable. I STRONGLY SUPPORT the new guidance. After the terrible assault in one of our Loudon County schools, we need to be sure and protect our children--particularly our girls. Only biological girls should be allowed in the girls locker room/bathroom. There can be a separate all gender bathroom for those who have different gender identity than their birth gender. Also, we do not need to teach gender identity at school. That can be taught at home by the parents based on their values.


Stronly Oppose! Support and protect our kids - don't oppress them!

<!DOCTYPE html>

I beg you to stop enforcing your antiquated beliefs on others and hurting beautiful children who may not fit a specific mold that you unrealistically expect them to fit. The majority of student voices in opposition to removing the Northam Administration's policies should tell you how out of touch with reality you are. Trans students have an incredibly difficult path (look at the suicide statistics - its heartbreaking and tragic!!!) and trans teens who have parents who don't support them NEED outside support. Stop the politics and protect our children - all of our children not just the white straight ones that you feel comfortable with.


Strongly SUPPORT New Youngkin Guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly support the Virginia DOE guidance that protects parents and children.  As the parent of a young elementary school child I have been alarmed to see public school subvert and circumvent parental involvement with their children.  The relationship between parent and child is paramount and the state does not have a right to supplant the parent through public school indoctrination.  These new guidelines protect a parent's right to be aware of what takes place in their child's life while in the public school system.  The guidelines are justified and definitely necessary.  </p>


OPPOSE

<!DOCTYPE html>

Oppose, it’s so scary to be a young person apart of LGBTQ*, these poor kids need people in their corner, this new policy is evil


Protect girls; no more sexual assualts

<!DOCTYPE html>

Stop this nonsense. Keep your sexual assualt ideology in Loudoun County. We don't want it in the rest of Virginia.


Department of Education- Guidance Document

<!DOCTYPE html>

Approve of this document.  It is supportive of parents and all students. Thank you Governor.


<!DOCTYPE html>

andStrongly oppose your proposed policy change. ALL students need to be represented and respected.


Opposed - Kids deserve better

<!DOCTYPE html>

The 2022 Model policies grant the ownership of a child's identity strictly to their parents, but only as it relates to gender identity. Ownership of any part of someone else's identity is unethical and can irrevocably harm a child. There is also the issue that some kids are simply not safe with their parents or family knowing about this part of them. Children have long been taught that if something isn't right, or they don't feel safe, they should turn to an adult they trust to help them. Fred Rogers, who many of us grew up with, said "always look for the helpers. If you look for the helpers, you'll know that there's hope." Sometimes those "helpers" are not at home, they are at school or some other trusted place. By making schools report directly to parents, kids won't be able to trust those helpers anymore. They won't be able to have the hope, especially if their home is not a safe place for them to be themselves.

It seems as though a lot of comments are particularly concerned with locker rooms, and the privacy concerns regarding their own kids. Is there not room for compromise? 2022 Model policy guiding principle B. states "Single-user bathrooms and facilities should be made available in accessible areas and provided with appropriate signage, indicating accessibility for all students." It is somewhat strange that within the same policy, not only does it ensure physical privacy, but disposes of mental/personal/identity privacy. Why not create a policy that ensures privacy of all types for all kids?

Using kids for political gain is unethical as is the ownership of a person's identity regardless of age.


Thank you, Youngkin!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

We support Governor Youngkin and his education department in rewriting the transgender-issue policies in our schools.  In our opinion, the updated policies restore protections for basic parental rights and ensure 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.  Specifically, we support:

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

• Removing the language contained in the prior policy that created a wedge between parents and their children at a time when parents and children need to have more communication.

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

• The updated language that empowers schools to make their own decisions on how to best protect kids—especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable students when undressing in locker rooms or overnight sleeping quarters for school field trips.

• The updated language providing schools with the freedom to address bathroom/privacy issues on a case-by-case basis with parents—and not through a one-size-fits-all pressure tool that treats all districts/communities the same.

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


New Policy re:  Trans students & their peers

<!DOCTYPE html>

I STRONGLY support the new guidance rules proposed.

Keep education to the 3R's...and that is ALL!


Oppose Governor’s policy to discriminate against children

<!DOCTYPE html>

The policy proposed by the governor discriminates against transgender children and their families. Teachers should be able to respect and show support for all of their students without the fear of losing their jobs. This policy asks teachers to discriminate against their own students and creates an inhospitable learning environment for all students in the classroom and school. This is not about parental rights. The point of this policy is cruelty. As a parent and former teacher I oppose this policy.


Opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

You will literally cause trans kids to die if you do this.


I approve of Governors new change

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Kids this young are not able to distinguish what and who they want to be so young. Schools shouldn’t be pushing this until children are at the age of 18 when they are legally able to vote and be on their own. </p>


Strongly support Gov Youngkin's corrections to the Northam policies .... return parents to their cen

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly support Gov Youngkin's corrections to the Northam policies .... return parents to their rightful role vis-a-vis their children, and return education to it's classical role without forcing teachers into a variety of cultural / ideological roles.


Strongly SUpport

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support Youngkin's new guidance document changes because it recognizes the proper role of the parent over the teacher. Parents are the primary educators, and teachers should support them. I agree with the new policy when it states: “Parents have the right to make decisions with respect to their children,” and “schools shall respect parents’ values and beliefs. There should be NO secrets between teachers and students, and Youngkin's new guidelines help ensure transparency between home and school.


Strongly Opposed

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly opposed of literal scum Youngkin's thinly veiled attempt to drag VA back to the days of bigotry and lynch mobs! Remove this garbage human from office.


<!DOCTYPE html>

I STRONGLY SUPPORT  the guidance re: Virginia Department of Education’s New Policies to Protect ALL Students in VA Public Schools


Strongly Support the new policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

The new policy properly protects first amendment rights and also acknowledges the primacy of the parents' role in raising their children.  The existing document attacks directly both of these principles and needs to be replaced at the earliest opportunity.  The proposed new policy recognizes the reality of biology and removes the State from the improper role of interfering with the rights of parents.


Protect parental rights and children's safety rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the updates to the transgender-issue policies.  I am in support of protecting parental rights and children's safety rights.  As the parent of a high school student, I understand it is in the child's best interest for parents to be involved in their teen's life and challenges.  These are children not adults, and they are not capable of making these kinds of enormous, life-changing decisions with wisdom and understanding.  Thank you Gov. Youngkin for recognizing that parents are the most important people in their children's lives.


OPPOSED to proposed anti trans/LGBTQ policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

These proposed regs will negatively impact students AND parents. They will cause a greater divide between parents, students, teachers and policy makers. You are trying to fix something that is NOT broken. Just stop


Strongly Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly support the rights of parents.  </p>


Support parental rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I fully support all people and their choice to love whoever they would like and to become whatever makes them happy. However, I don’t see the need to allow males in girl’s locker rooms and bathrooms. </p>


Protect Girls

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Look no further than the Loudon County rape case. Keep boys out of girls bathrooms! </p>


Protect kids from Northern Virginian ultra left wingers

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Let’s get back to science and math. School is not the place for this strange game they are playing with our children. Stop encouraging this nonsense. </p>


Democrat in Favor of Greater Sanity Regarding Gender

<!DOCTYPE html>

I have spent my entire life voting (and in some cases working) for Democrats. On this issue, though—of how to respond to the growing number of children who are claiming a transgender identity—I believe the Democratic party is dangerously wrong. I appreciate Governor Youngkin's willingness to repeal Governor Northam's reckless policy, which put children in charge of their own social transition. I am dismayed that this issue has become political in any way, as the overriding concern ought to be what is best for children and not what some activist group prefers as more "just" or "accepting."

Kids who are experiencing gender dysphoria need support. And if they end up transitioning, they will need an extraordinary level of support in order to survive and prosper. The medical interventions involved in gender transition are severe and brutal on the body. Even hormone blockers are not FDA approved to be used for the treatment of gender dysphoria; their use is "off label." Medical treatments for gender dysphoria are largely experimental, as the national health care systems in Sweden, Finland, France and the UK have all found after a careful, non-political review of the medical evidence. Those systems have all recently reevaluated, stopped, or have advised caution on the medical treatment of gender dysphoria in children. Importantly, they also recommend social transition only after careful psychological assessments. All of these countries’ medical boards have emphasized the need to treat gender dysphoric children with dignity and respect, but have insisted upon providing high quality, evidence-based medical care that prioritizes long-term health.

Why would these countries have changed their approach? First, they noticed that the number of children who are announcing a trans identity has not just increased, but has skyrocketed. Nations with centralized health care systems make data collection easier; in the UK, for example, cases are up 4,000% over 10 years. That’s 40 times the number of children seeking treatment for gender dysphoria in just a single decade. Second, the sex prevalence of who is seeking to transition has flipped. Whereas for many decades the overall ratio had been 75 percent males seeking to be female, now the vast majority of new referrals come from teenage girls. Finally, clinicians and psychologists began to notice that this new patient population for the most part had shown no childhood history of either gender dysphoria or even gender non-conforming behavior.

Many believe that this new cohort—largely female, teenaged, with no childhood history of gender non-conforming behavior—represents an entirely novel etiology, which might be called Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria. This group displays a striking co-variance of autism spectrum traits, which presents differently in girls than in boys and often leads to social difficulties; many also suffered sexual or other severe childhood trauma. In addition, teen girls have recently been “coming out” as trans within clusters, often with scripted language gleaned from online sources.

Meanwhile, the new language prevalent in the Democratic Party is that children “know who they are,” that any child who announces a trans identity should be affirmed, that traditional exploratory therapy is akin to conversion therapy, and that the medical standard of care should fast-track hormone treatment. In today’s polarized political environment, those who question any step along this path—from affirmation and social transition, to medical interventions—is tarred as a bigot.

In this environment I do not believe schools are providing a supportive environment for children by hiding a social transition from parents. When a child says they are transgender, it is entirely unclear what the best next steps ought to be. Strong support for children simply cannot come from teachers and counselors, as well-meaning as they might be; it will come from their families, who must be involved in their care. Educators are not board certified in mental health, gender dysphoria, or pediatric medicine. They have no right to step in between parent and child to make decisions which can have profound effects on a child’s future mental and physical health.

When schools are keeping secrets about kids’ social transition, they are driving a wedge between parent and child at the very time in a child’s life when kids are least equipped to evaluate risks, and when they are most invested in the process of “individuation.” I can’t imagine a much more dramatic way for a girl to separate from her mother than to say to her, “Mom, I’m so much unlike you that I’m not even a girl.” And yet, particularly in the teen years, we know that parents are crucial to a child’s development, that children are hardly fully formed, that they still need guidance—even as they gain more independence with each passing year.

Finally, I'd like to address the argument that parents might abuse or harm children whose schools "out" them to their parents. We must accept that the majority of parents love their kids and want what’s best for them in the long run, even if that means they aren’t giving children what they might want in the short run. Without basing society on the basic family unit, we are lost. Moreover, educators and counselors are legally responsible to act as mandatory reporters, trained to recognize the signs of abuse. If they suspect abuse they must immediately report that to law enforcement. But mandatory reporters are not to keep secrets with minor children from their parents.

I hope that both sides of the aisle can begin to approach this issue with some sanity, rather than talking past one another. I may not have voted for Governor Youngkin, but I agree with him on this issue. We must stop demonizing the "other side" and start to have a conversation, instead, about which policy is best—in this case, best for kids.


I approve of Gov. Youngkin's policy changes

<!DOCTYPE html>

I Strongly Approve of Gov. Youngkin's Transgender Policy Changes

Our schools need to focus on their real job: education. Not indoctrination. Teachers in our schools have the responsibility to teach children the objective subjects of reading, writing, math, science, and history.  Parents have the responsibility to teach their own children their morals and their belief systems, not teachers. Parents have the ultimate authority over and the ultimate responsibility for their children's lives, not school administrators and teachers.


Support Gov Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support Gov Youngkin! All kids need to feel safe at school. Best way to support trans kids is connecting them to services staffed with mental health professionals. Teachers are not mental health professionals nor are they students parents. Notify parents! And get the identity politics out of schools! These absurd leftist politics are ruining public education. Thankful for a decent Governor to promote education again. </p>


<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly oppose this thinly veiled religious bigotry and hatred from Youngkin.


SUPPORT!! How sad this is even an issue! No such thing as “Trans”

<!DOCTYPE html>

You will NEVER change what you are!! God made you what you are, and this is sinful rebellion towards the Creator!


Opposition of 2022 Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the passage of the 2022 Model Policies.  Transgender youth are among the most vulnerable members of our society, suffering from higher rates of suicide resulting from the discrimination they face, including from those who should love them unconditionally. These new policies create an unwelcoming environment for trans and nonbinary students in the school system and will cause significant damage to their wellbeing. The 2021 policies currently in place provide reasonable protections and a safe space for students while still honoring parents’ rights regarding their children.


Funny how all the supporters are anonymous or are speaking on pure drivel. Disgraceful.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>You should be ashamed. </p>


Support Trans Kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

School is meant to be a safe place for young adults to express themselves and learn in a supportive environment, and that should be continued.


K-12 schools notify parents

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents need to know if their child is failing in school.

Parents need to know if their child is having issues with their birth gender.

If a student reaches out for help, that’s when the school can/should step in.  But parents have the right to know about their child first, not a government agency.