Oppose

I oppose this legislation. Terminology section - uses terms such as social construct without scientific evidence. Related Laws section under 1st Amendment states schools may not prevent students from expressing their identity after telling students in Terminology section what their identities can be, implying they can't express otherwise. For example, uses the term cisgender to imply that all students have gender identities and assigned sexes (without scientific evidence). Undoubtedly some students will not agree with this and refuse to be labelled cisgender, which they should be able to express. Telling students they can express their identities but can't express that they don't have separate gender identities and assigned sexes can be read as contradictory, bullying and discriminatory which is supposedly what the document is trying to prevent. Page 10, 1st paragraph, 2nd sentence: intentionally vague. Preferred pronouns can change daily and even within a day. Additionally, they can defy the basic rules of grammar. Page 10, 1st paragraph, 3rd sentence: intentionally vague. What type of disclosure? This implies some sort of notification process that hasn't yet been explained. Does it have to take place every time the person changes their identity (if they do so)? How are all students, teachers and administrators supposed to know exactly when an approved identity change has taken place throughout the course of the day? Page 10, 4th paragraph, 5th sentence: Creation of division-level ombudsman above the school can be read as discriminatory as it treats potential transgender discrimination as more important than discrimination of other kinds. Page 10-11 School Division prohibition statement runs contrary to document. It should be obvious to anyone with a basic understanding of the monotheistic religions and science that practicing Jews, Muslims, Christians and scientists have not agreed with the separation of gender and identity for more than 3,000 years. The policies provide no exceptions or accommodations for students or teachers whose religious faith, conscience, or understanding of biology and sociology prevents them from agreeing with transgender ideology and policies. If notifications are requested to take place multiple times within a day to accommodate identity changes it is reasonable to suppose the same notifications could take place to not put a practicing Muslim, Christian or Jew in a situation where they are forced to violate the tenets of their faith. This contradiction also seems to support certain religious denominations over others and could be seen as an imposition of religion on students and teachers. Page 11, 2nd paragraph, 4th sentence. Is this suggesting that teachers be required to take time out of their lesson to discuss the gender identity of a student because that student wants to? Shouldn't this be something the student does on their own time with their peers? Does this have to re-occur whenever the student changes identities and for every class, sport, etc? Who leads the discussion? Would students be given the opportunity to not partake in said discussions or are they a captive audience? Page 12, 1st paragraph, 1st sentence. What does "who do not have supportive families" mean and who is making said claim? Can read as who are practicing Muslim, Jewish or Christian. Seems to contradict declaratory statement on religious discrimination and push certain religious denominations over others into a most favorable category. How does that differ again from discrimination on grounds of religion? Page 12, 2nd paragraph, last 2 sentences. Intentionally vague and ambiguous. Using words like "should" and phrases like "does not necessarily" reveals a complicated situation this document at times presents as un-complicated. How are teachers and students supposed to operate in this environment? There appear to be no clear lines of delineation or processes built-in for the student to follow yet expectations abound for other students and teachers. Page 12-13, last and first paragraph. Reads as though discriminatory towards practicing Muslims, Christians, and Jews especially since it provides no exceptions or accommodations. The lack of this acknowledgement alone can be seen as revealing. If other students persistently say hello or hey without any gender identification is that considered discriminatory? People converse all the time without using names or gender, how does this document acknowledge that without levying discrimination via avoidance accusations? Page 13, 2nd paragraph, last 2 sentences. Reads as though parents who encourage their children to embrace their biological sex are at risk of being reported for child abuse or neglect by school. Is that the intent? Reads as though practicing Muslim, Christian or Jewish parents are being asked to remove their children from the public school system. Or it potentially puts students in a situation where they will avoid this student for fear of saying or not saying something that can be used against them, understanding that no evidence at all is required (because the document is intentionally vague) but only a statement from the student. This would seem to further isolate the student and not be helpful. The document has already revealed that it could isolate the student from his or her family as well. Page 17, Box statement. How does this support Title IX and the girls sports competitive landscape? Students identifying as girls but not on hormone treatment will have a decisive advantage over girls. Depending on when hormone treatment is initiated in this same instance, leg strength is not effected. Boys sports and records will not be effected in the same way. Page 17, Access to facilities, 2nd paragraph, 1st sentence. This document reads as though the only emotional harm to be considered is that of the transgender student. Has there been a study on how having menstrual supplies in boys bathrooms effects their psyche? Has there been any study done on the psychological effect on girls of sharing a changing area with boys who identify as girls? It is very difficult to ensure that every adult or student knows at all times the gender status of every other adult and student before, during and after school hours in the school or at any school-sanctioned activity. Page 17, Professional Development and Training. How does this level of training relate to that given to teachers and administrators regarding special needs students or any other students in unique circumstances (adopted/foster children, suicide prevention, bullying, etc)? And how does that relate to the percentage of the school population that fall into those categories? What other cultural competency training is provided to students and teachers (i.e. non-LGBT)? Page 19, Other Considerations. Reads as token watered-down religious statement. General observation. The intent to subvert parental authority/responsibility is more than palpable in this document. It is not the state's job to raise children. This will result in a less diverse school as parents and students who practice their monotheistic faith and others who don't want to deal emotionally with all of the unknowns and ambiguities inferred in this document will remove their children from public schools. It's difficult to work with parents when you tell teachers and administrators in this document to constantly be weary of them, unless they are in your opinion 100% on board with their child. Not only does no one really know that, but the child can at any time tell the school otherwise. Additionally, statements enabling boys and girls to dress in whichever manner they choose puts a school in the situation where a girl identifying as a boy doesn’t have to wear a female swimsuit during swim team practices or matches and can expose herself to all in attendance. No one should be forced to be exposed to that, especially little children. If that’s the intent there should be notices given or signage posted so parents can keep their kids from such psychologically devastating circumstances. Where is the discussion about repercussions for children weaponizing this newfound authority given to them in this proposed document to determine who is disagreeing with/abusing them and when? How about for teachers and administrators that do the same or violate what's left of parental rights? How about some training for all of them on parental rights? How about some training for all of them on the enumerated freedom of religion right, to include everyone whose name is attached to this document? Inclusion is for everyone and is not a one-way street. This document would've done well to show that definition and then abide by it.


STRONGLY OPPOSE the proposed Transgender policies

I strongly oppose the proposed transgender policies.  Please protect ALL students K-12 grade and NOT just the few. My school aged daughter should NOT be forced to use the same bathroom/locker rooms with the opposite sex to accommodate a small number of students. This is an open door to sexual abuse. There are other way to accommodate the transgender students by providing "gender neutral" bathrooms/locker rooms for those who choose to use them.


I strongly support these vulnerable students. All children have the right to protection

I strongly support protecting students in at risk groups, such as trans students or other groups at greater risk for bullying or prejudice. All children in Virginia have a right to a safe and fair education. As St. Pope John Paul II   said, "A society will be judged on the basis of how it treats its weakest members"


Strongly support

I am in full support


Oppose!!!

We all know that a child's gender is determined at birth. Just because a child identifies as the opposite sex does not make it factually so. These proposed policies will confuse young, moldable minds and place teachers who are opposed to the policies in the unfortunate position of having to choose between their values or their careers.


Strongly support!

I strongly support this legislation! Evidence-based practices together with policies that mitigate discrimination are the obvious choice.


I do NOT Support this policy

I find this policy reckless and not in the best interest of our children. Teacher and school administrators are responsible for education not interfering with the family unit.  Reminder God makes no mistakes- it is others who are muddying the water with unatural thoughts. God made Man & Women perfect


I strongly support protections for transgender students.

I strongly support transgender youth and these model policies. As a VA teacher, I appreciate these policies to ensure that a positive, safe, and nurturing learning environment extends to all of our students. I especially appreciate that "dress codes, including hairstyles, should encompass broad guidelines that are not gender specific and free of gender stereotypes." I hope that despite the exclusion of athletics from these policies, there is emphasis placed on an effort for equity. Thank you.


STRONGLY SUPPORT

As a career public middle school teacher, I taught several transgender students.  They need and deserve ALL the support we can give them! I support transgender youth and these model policies.


Oppose “transgender” policy

It is NOT the place for an educational institution to participate in determining the “identities” of its students. Educational institutions are to teach the students how to read, write, calculate, and to think! Any personal, hormonal, or spiritual confusions a student may have MUST be addressed by his or her PARENT. The school is NOT the parent. If this passes, there will be many lawsuits because the educational system will be putting many children in harm’s way. You are hurting these students, not helping.


Support!

I strongly support transgender youth and your model policies. All children should be welcomed in their school environment and should not have to worry about discrimination. School should be a welcome respite from the world where they can focus on their limitless future and education. I strongly support this movement.


Support ALL students

I am a Virginia resident in favor of supporting all of our students. Please don’t listen to the heartless comments of people so far removed from the classroom and reality. Our students need the support of our state and the statistics of suicide rates and depression amongst our LGBTQ+ students are your evidence and data. Thank you!


STRONGLY SUPPORT

These guidelines and models are long overdue. Priority needs to be placed on keeping ALL children safe and providing an environment where they are able to thrive. The reality is that transgender individuals exist and deserve all of the same support, consideration, and options to be their authentic selves while attending school as all other gender designations, whether those who are mired in antiquated and limited understandings of gender identity like it


STRONGLY SUPPORT

I support the guidance - we need to support all children.


Support

I support transgender youth and these model policies.


Strongly Support

TW: violence, sexual assault, and suicide I full heartedly support these bills. Transgender individuals, especially children and teens, are some of our highest risk for community members for hate crimes, sexual assault, and suicide. Between 30% and 50% of all trans people have attempted suicide at some point in their lives, which is significantly higher than the US average of ~1%. We need to do everything we can to protect our transgender friends, family, and community members, and these bills are a great start to that. Opposing these bills is hate-fueled and cowardly. Understanding something entirely is not a prerequisite to being inclusive. Opposing these bills means you’re willing to put trans people in dangerous situations.


STRONGLY SUPPORT

It is important that our schools model respect for everyone.


transgender youth model policies

I strongly support transgender youth and these model policies.


Strongly support

This will create a more safe space of inclusion and welcoming for the students. Thank you.


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

I strongly support transgender youth and this model policy


Prioritize the safety of our children by opposing this bill.

By helping 5 transgender students in a school, you will be putting a hundred in harms way.  A students gender could change daily.  Today Matthew has decided he is a girl so he can go into the girls bathroom and take advantage of a female student.  DO NOT put the majority in harms way to protect a few.  I absolutely am in favor of protecting transgender students, but this is not the way.  Why not make accomodations specifically for transgender students?  Or perhaps restrooms and changing areas need to be single stalled for the protection of everyone.


Opposed - inequitable and discriminatory

As a parent of two students in Virginia public schools, I oppose these guidelines for the following reasons, and I ask the Department of Education to reconsider the ramifications of these guidelines on the student body as a whole: 1. Teaching children that deceiving their parents is acceptable is actually unacceptable. Please do not discard parents’ rights to guide their children. We entrust our students to you, but they are still fundamentally ours to raise. 2. Permitting children to declare a gender at any time without any substantiating evidence or diagnosis will lead to chaos - it puts the child in control instead of teachers and staff. 3. For their own health and safety, children cannot legally make many life decisions until certain ages: drink alcohol, smoke, vote, drive, etc. Younger students cannot even possess an ibuprofen, and schools promote week-long “say no to drugs” campaigns each year.  Why then would school staff be made to affirm gender decisions that lead to children taking hormones and puberty-blocking drugs? These are confusing mixed messages taught to our children by authority figures they trust. 4.  Where is the equity? These policies are not equal protection - bullying prevention measures must be universal and sufficient to protect everyone. It should not matter who the victims are or what they believe about themselves or others. 5.  If these guidelines are adopted, schools will not have capacity to offer reasonable accommodations to students who are uncomfortable sharing the private spaces of bathrooms and locker rooms with members of the opposite sex. Logically, the larger group would use the larger bathroom, and the smaller group would use the smaller bathroom. Under this policy, the reverse could soon be true, creating chaos for our schools. 6.  Many children need accommodations for a variety of sensitive issues. These should continue to be granted on a case-by-case basis. Any child can "feel unsafe," not just transgender children. The preference given to transgender students in these guidelines is overt discrimination. 7.  These guidelines do not allow for religious exemptions for teachers and staff. Instead, these guidelines coerce speech. 8. These policies require the public school system at large to agree to and support transgender ideology - belief that a person can be born in the wrong body. This is state-mandated religious practice.


Transgender students civil rights and protection

I STRONGLY SUPPORT the implementation of this guidance. Many of these students are at a very great risk for suicide. They need affirmation and protection not only of their civil rights but of their very lives. They are required to be in school and are entitled to a good education in a safe learning environment. The hateful comments on here exemplify the ignorance and cruelty towards our transgender youth, underscoring the great need for the implementation of these Model Policies.


Firmly Oppose

As a mom of 4, I absolutely disagree with the bathroom and locker room policies proposed.


Yes!

Everyone should be able to be who they truly are at school


Strongly Support

We need to not fall victim to the bigotry and shortsightedness of our predecessors; rather stake our claim on history as a generation of thinkers open to new ideas and understanding that our experience is not merely limited to that of our own.  We have the opportunity to do the right thing just as many have had through history before us.  The struggle for equal rights though seemingly eternal must never be left as we must strive for a more perfect union, for all, not a select few.  I strongly agree with protecting ALL Virginians, especially those who have had it much harder than the rest of us.


Support Trans and Binary students

I would like to support VDOE model  for protecting trans and binary students. I am a teacher and so is my daughter.  She has had trans students.  The nephew of a close friend of mine is also trans. These students and their families need all the support and help they can get.


Excellent Policy Guidance Document - I fully support the recommendations.

After reviewing the document I was pleased to find it based on up-to-date science relating to gender identity issues.  The recommendations uniformly provide respect for the children, letting them find their own way, without adult societal preconceptions being imposed, but still keeping the children safe. The only area I found not well thought out was the situation where the child and parent goals did not match.  The issues of parental prerogatives versus what is best developmentally for the child are extremely difficult to resolve and I believe this document was too superficial and evasive to provide constructive guidance in this situation.  I think the document should contain more concrete suggestions as to the alternate ways to meet this particular challenge.


About 99.4% of our children do not have gender confusion.  Why force them to have it?

"Sexuality and Gender - Findings from the Biological and Social Sciences" is a report by medical professionals based on research/empirical studies in "psychology, sociology, political science, economics, and gender studies."  Search for "Sexuality and Gender" at www.thenewatlantis.com and look at Preface, Executive Summary, and Conclusion. Findings include: "The hypothesis that gender identity is an innate, fixed property of human beings that is independent of biological sex -- that a person might be a 'man trapped in a woman's body' or 'a woman trapped in a man's body' -- is not supported by evidence. "According to a recent estimate, about 0.06% of U.S. adults identify as a gender that does not correspond to their biological sex." "Only a minority of children who experience cross-gender identification will continue to do so into adolescence or adulthood." Genderbread Person -- Proposed instruction is based on beliefs described in the genderbread person presentation at www.genderbread.org/ .  This is clearly expression of a new belief system. Conclusion -- This proposed policy for K-12 public schools is based on a new belief system which would be forcibly, without consent or oversight by parents, indoctrinate our children with beliefs which are unacceptable to most parents. We recognize that all are born biologically male or female, that a few struggle with their born identity and have gender confusion, and that they should be treated with respect and kindness, not bullied. Likewise , the vast majority accept their born gender and should be respected, not cajoled or demeaned, not indoctrinated or advised to become discontented with their born identities.  They should not be coerced or bullied by teachers or staff to learn about, report on, or support beliefs concerning gender confusion. Opening the girls' restrooms to boys who consider themselves to be girls, and the boys' restrooms to girls who consider themselves to be boys is a flagrant, egregious violation of the rights of those accepting their born genders.  The emotional and psychological harm this would trigger in impressionable, developing children and young people could be permanently damaging.  The only possible solution must be to provide single-use restrooms in such locations that their use does not stigmatize the users. This policy must be revised to protect the privacy and rights of both the minority of students experiencing gender dysphoria/confusion and the vast majority of students accepting their biological gender.  As proposed, it is a formula for creating unnecessary confusion among children/students and endless legal wrangling with parents.  We must do better than this.


Stay in Your Lane

This bill will do absolutely no good! Children are highly influential, you will be doing more harm than good. If you want a bill to help those children who have questions provide a psychiatrist or guidance counselor. Let children know they can go and speak to them have parents and children in a meeting together. Bring a family together instead of trying to take on roles you ha e no buisness in. Virginia school need better education better/safer schools. The focus needs to be on general education not on something that is extremely private! If this passes my children will not enter the school system. Stop hurting our children!


Mark 10 ;13 -16 / Jesus blesses little children

Mark 10; 13-16 Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said them, Let the little children come to Me , and do not forbid them: for of such in the kingdom of God. 15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. 16 And He took them up in his arms , laid His hands on them, and blessed them.  Jesus loved the children so much that He was displeased at those that tried to keep them away from Him. In this petition there is a divide of citizens whom oppose and agree with this proposed bill. This was the basis on what are great country was founded on.Freedom of speech. A democratic process of healthy debate. All children deserve to be protected from harm. God created Adam and Eve. There is no mention of transgender in the bible. The bill such as this one is created by a politician / group  that does not follow the will of Jesus . If you are a christian  and you know your bible it is only boy , girl, woman, man. This is like the abortion issue. Jesus would not approve of abortion. Taking the life of an innocent baby is wrong. These issues can be debated in a friendly tone so every ones point of view can be heard. When the will of the Lord is not followed there is much chaos and fighting among the citizens. Proposed bills like this are drawn up without the guidance of God therefore it creates much confusion. Prayers are needed on issues such as these. If you are not a christian and are reading this you can open the bible and seek guidance on this and many other issues of the day. My prayers for you is that you will be saved and Believe that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior. May God richly bless you


Strongly support

Let’s treat each other with respect and dignity.


Strongly support

I support the guidance. It is factual, researched, humane, and sets a healthy environment for our children. The guidance will help to produce the best outcomes for our young people.


Strongly support

Strongly support transgender youth


Strongly Oppose - We can do better

Marginalized students in our state should be given every opportunity to succeed in their academic endeavors. I don't believe anyone would argue against that. The path to achieving that goal, however, is up for debate. The model policies proposed by the VA DOE will likely only accomplish frustrating teachers who serve all of their students well, regardless of gender and creating a litany of legal actions against the state. Bullying, discrimination, and harassment of transgender students can and should be addressed in ways that do not open the door for bullying, discrimination, and harassment of teachers, administrators, and fellow students who choose a scientific view of binary, biological sex. Add freedom of religion into the mix and these policies are a recipe for suppression of most religions which adhere to a binary view of sexuality. There has to be space for diversity of thought and belief. These policies do not offer that and are a terrible solution to a problem that needs to be evaluated and addressed on a district level.


Strongly support, and approve of these models

Strongly support and approve of these models


Strongly oppose, not the role of public schools

Strongly oppose indoctrination of our students


Strongly oppose.

Reject the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia's Public Schools because they undermine the rights of parents and families.


Strongly Support

The sheer volume of hate filled negative comments prove how much this policy is needed to protect the civil rights of transgender students.


Transgender identification in schools

Until a person reaches adulthood, at least 18 years old, they should not be identified as transgender nor should any arrangements to accommodate them as transgender be made in our school system.  At schools all students should be treated as the their birth sex.  Parents should not have to allow their children to be confused by transgender claims and accommodations.  Young children only know about transgender if they are taught about it and it should not be acknowledged or taught in our schools.  The many should not have to change because of the choices or  feelings of a few.


Protect ALL students. Strongly agree

How can we not agree to protect all of our children? No one should be ostracized because of who they are, whatever that may be. The mental destruction that happens to children in school by their peers and at times their teachers is gut-wrenching. A healthy learning environment is unobtainable if the basic freedom of being one’s self is rejected and abused. Safety, both physical and mental, must be the priority.  Protecting children in the LGBTQ community does not remove protections for those who are not. It provides LGBTQ kids the equal opportunity to an enriching education everyone deserves. Our children and our community will be better when we can acknowledge our differences and show compassion for each other.  Thank you.


STRONGLY SUPPORT: PROTECT TRANSGENDER YOUTH

It is crucial to provide aid to transgender youth, a population that has historically been oppressed, in a place where they spend 50% of their day.


Rights

My comments are few because they are simple, perhaps necessarily so. This is an issue of difference where we are asked to step aside from binary thinking, a way of thinking that makes us male/female only, makes us black/white only, that asks us to see the world simplistically, through a simple-minded  notion of good/evil. Here we are asked to loosen our minds into diversity, to embrace a full spectrum of color and thought, where we are asked to broaden our minds and our hearts. Here we are asked to be inclusive, to step aside from the us versus them mentality that makes enemies of us all in turn. Here we are asked to be kind, for God so loved the world. Let’s open our hearts to kindness.


Support Trans Youth

I strongly support this guidance document; schools should be a safe space for students to learn and feel comfortable to be their authentic selves , and this approaches the issue from the perspective of prioritizing student well-being . This guidance document seeks to validate and support a specifically marginalized group while in no way minimizing the same validation and support offered to cisgender students.


Strongly support transgender youths and this policy

I am strongly in favor of the proposed policy. It will provide safety and privacy to transgender youth, who are some the most at-risk students in our society from bullying, violence, depression and self-harm. You need only look at other comments here to see the vitriol, closed-mindedness, and fear-cum-hate directed at children already vulnerable because of their age made more so by their struggle to align their identity with innermost selves. It is far past time to do this.


Transgender guidance document

All children deserve support  and protection


I support

I support!


STOP the INSANITY

Leave children alone!!!


Trans rights are human rights

Trans rights are human rights. I support them.


Strongly support

I strongly support these policies


Strongly support

I strongly support policies that protect transgender students. They need our love and support during this time in their lives.


Strongly support OUR transgender students

this guidance document; schools should be a safe space for students to learn and feel comfortable to be their authentic selves, and this approaches the issue from the perspective of prioritizing student well-being. This guidance document seeks to validate and support a specifically marginalized group while in no way minimizing the same validation and support offered to cisgender students.


I don’t support

I do not support this bill. It is dangerous and reckless. The only way to not “discriminate” would be to have completely separate bathrooms and locker rooms that students go in one at a time and lock!! Girls should not have boys in the bathroom with them or vice versa. You are building to a huge law suite for rape and molestation!! This is not safe for our children! I would pull my children out of school if this passes.


Strongly support this bill

Transgender youth need our love and support.  I work in the Virginia public school system as a school counselor in nontraditional education.  I see the ramifications the lack of acceptance and exclusion does to this population.  These students are not rapists or in any way broken people and the assumption that they are creates a toxic environment for everyone that leads to severe depression and anxiety along with other mental health issues that effect transgender youth and the people that grow to hurt them.  A bill such as this will help most importantly our transgender youth but also provide an opportunity for other people to understand those different from them and hopefully create a more kind and loving environment for everyone.


Strongly oppose

I strongly oppose. Cisgender students should not be forced to share public bathrooms with transgender students. Privacy for all should be respected and this takes away from the ability for all students to be respected. It is not the place of the schools to teach children about these things, it is the parents responsibility when they are ready.


OPPOSE!

This is absolutely insane!!!! The identification for gender occurs at birth. Should anyone want to try and introduce another identification with their child, they should do so privately. I will not allow my children to be taught or subject to this crap if it’s passed within the county schools locally. This is NOT the place to institute gender “acceptance.” Allow a girl to go topless??? Are you kidding me? Let anyone go into any bathroom? You’re asking for an increase in assaults, harassment, lack of privacy, and safety for all students. I believe gender is God ordained and not “optional.” Please I urge you to have some decency and clarity in your thinking. What would our grandparents or for fathers think about this??? This generation is so lost and our leadership has clouded their reasoning. Do not force this in schools. You will never have my support nor access to so many children because we as Christian parents will not


"So God created mankind in His own image....male and female HE created them." Genesis 1:27

"So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them." Genesis 1:27 I strongly oppose all of this bill especially the draft policy on p. 12 that would prohibit schools from notifying parents if a biological male is using the same changing facility as their daughter that was designated for girls and the recommended standard on p. 13 that would place parents who encourage their children to embrace their God given sex at risk of being reported for child abuse or neglect by the school. If the school truly wants to "protect" all students, where is the protection for my 11 year old daughter who is just starting middle school? If that in itself is not confusing enough, allowing the school to bring more confusion with this gender confusion bill, would only lead to chaos and further detriment to our youth who are so easily impressionable. The same Jesus who said, "Let the little children come to Me", also gives a stiff warning to anyone who would cause one of these little ones to stumble: "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for Him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." Matthew 18:6. Jesus loves the little children as He loves each of us. I pray if you are reading this and you believe in Jesus that You will stand with what His word says and I pray if you don't know Jesus as your Savior, that today will be the day you come to know Him as Lord. He is such a good Father and He will protect His children. It is only by His GRACE that we go!


STRONGLY SUPPORT

Keep religion out of our schools. I strongly support all efforts to protect trans kids.


Strongly support

Strongly support! All students deserve equitable treatment.


Strongly Support

Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools- I strongly support this measure and appreciate the willingness of our public schools to treat all humans with dignity and respect.  Making a conscious choice to think about the systems that welcome people and create a safe learning environment is the core of what our schools should be doing.


Supporting our LGBTQ+ Students

Good morning, I want to thank you for the well thought out and written proposal for providing inclusive, meaningful, important policies and procedures aimed at protecting our youth. Gender-based harassment and social stigmatization aren't just terms in a document, they are real-life hurdles our sons and daughters face daily, beginning in elementary school.  Assuring the psychosocial wellness of all of our children is paramount- the single most important and life-affirming action we as parents and community leaders can take. I appreciated so much about this document.  I am the mother of two cisgender males, and even I can understand the basic needs being met by gender-inclusive dress codes, single user bathrooms and private dressing areas, and professional training and development.  Normalizing gender equality in our schools benefits everyone, regardless of their sexual identity. This proposal is a step in the right direction and a joyful relief for many wonderful, loving, dedicated, worried families.  Let's support our youth and remember what this country was founded on; Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.


What about Women’s rights?

Why are women forced to agree with everything? And if we don’t we get accused of bullying or being bigots? Yet, everybody else gets a say... This pattern of bullying women into submission is merely another version of our status hundreds of years ago. It’s just a facade to revert us back to be... handmaids. Just become women don’t support these doesn’t mean that they hate transgender, gay, or lesbian people. We have friends and family that we care and love that may identify with one of those groups. However, regardless or hormonal therapy and subscribing to the same gender, we will never be the same sex. Denying that is truly a remarkable sign of failed idealism. It is what is. We need a solution to support all our students but forcing children to advocate for things they don’t believe it, use bathrooms they don’t feel comfortable going in, or compete for sports and scholarships against others with unfair advantage is not the solution. Many females that have transitioned to males would not feel comfortable going to a male bathroom. That inherently explains how different women organically feel navigating this world. Let’s not forget women who were born women at birth.


DOE Transgender Bill

I strongly oppose this bill.


Strongly support

Thank you to the VDOE for drafting these guidance documents. I strongly support these efforts to create guidance so that school districts can ensure safe, inclusive learning environments for individuals of all genders. I fear that without this guidance, many school districts will not implement these needed policies on their own.


A teachable moment for inclusivity

Yes, this is a teachable moment.  How better to let our young people learn that there are differences among us that are to be celebrated!  Individual sexuality is among the ways we are created.  It is a matter of birth not choice. There is no risk of sharing bathroom facilities; there are closed stalls to protect privacy.  It is not an open invitation for sexual assault.  This is a time to be inclusive in all manners possible.  We need to practice kindness and embrace our multiple ways of being.  To deny this is to deny our common humanity, in all its diversity.


Strongly Support

Trans students have the same rights to an education free from administrative discrimination as anyone else. No cis students will face any negative consequences from schools adopting anti-discriminatory policies


Strongly opposed

I am strongly opposed to implementation of these policies, particularly those that permit a school to exclude parents from decisions about their children.  Further, the underlying premises of the proposal is wrong and at least subject to other views, which appear to have been silenced.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

We strongly oppose the state and federal government making decisions on behalf of our children in regards to transgender policies. These are issues that should be handled within the confines of the home. We strongly speak on behalf of the people to have our voices heard to not let this state mandate be enacted.


Transgender

VERY STRONGLY OPPOSE!!


Oppose

My husband and I strongly object to the Virginia Department of Education draft proposing a new policy regarding transgender ideology in our schools. It would interfere with parental rights and responsibilities, puts more stress on teachers and students alike,( re pronouns and names) in everyday speech, privacy issues regarding bathroom and locker room facilities, even proposes to enforce clothing issues. In addition it disregards the sensitivities of teachers, administrators and students whose religious faith or conscience prevents to from accepting the “transgender” ideology. All people regardless of their inclinations are entities safety and freedom from bullying and prejudice, but this proposed policy is extreme and unacceptable.


Strongly Support Protections for Transgender Students

My family and I strongly support additional protections for transgender students.


Strongly Oppose

I believe that God created all people in His image and made them to be distinctly biologically male or female. Gender is a biological fact determined by a person’s anatomy, not their personal choice. Therefore, I strongly oppose this transgender policy.


transgender  policy promoted in school

I'm strongly opposed to forcing a transgender policy in schools. There are protections for transgender students, but this should not infringe on the rights and safety of other students. Kathy - teacher


Strongly oppose the transgender integration

I strongly oppose ANY integration of ANY sexual identity agenda into our schools. The schools are there to educate children, not indoctrinate them in politically generated ideology. Schools are not the place for this indoctrination...reading, writing, math, science should be the priority. Children are easily impressionable and change ideas about life in general. One morning they want to be a fireman, by the afternoon they want to be a doctor. Sexual orientation or gender choice should not be introduced to children at any age in any form. They are impressionable to what school authorities and peers tell them. Adults are confused on this issue, so exposing children to it is unconscionable. Parents should have the sole right and responsibility to educate their children on all subjects. They have entrusted the school system to teach them education topics such as math, science, reading, etc. That should never ever include sexual promiscuity. Please stop the madness of this bill and any other legislation that usurps the parents' rights to protect their children from views they do not hold.


Oppose Policies Regarding "Transgender" Ideology

After reviewing many of the draft model policies regarding the treatment of transgender students in public school systems, I have to agree that there is a cause of concern for action. However, the proposed policies' goal to bring equality to an ideology that is unbiblical will only end in failure. One of the most helpful things I have heard, throughout my Christian walk, is to think of our soul as a room. When you are in sin, that room is full of darkness, dark people and dark forces. There are two ways to get rid of the darkness in that room. You can start by casting out the darkness (fighting it-resisting it-rejecting it). The other is to fill the room with Light. As your life fills with better people, better things to do, and more reasons to live in the Light, then there is less darkness in the room. Jesus is the Light. He invites us to live a radical life that challenges everyone to make a choice to whether to live right or wrong lives. Based on the Word of God in Ephesians 5:5-9, we should "not become partners with them". That is people that are walking in the dark...rather we are to "walk as Children of the Light." Finding the mercies of Christ and learning to walk in His Light is courageous. It has an impact on the people around you. Demonstrating the Lord in our homes and through the school systems will inevitably impact our communities and have far great results than policies that allow explicit sexual immorality. In a world where light is going out on sexual rights and wrongs, you have an opportunity to turn the lights on. Sincerely, Brad Hanna


Support

My children have several gay, non-binary, and transgender friends, some who’ve encountered negative experiences at the hands of unsupportive or even well-intentioned school staff. This guidance would allow all schools to be equipped with the policies and procedures they need to confidently provide a safe and inclusive educational experience for all students, especially our LGBT youth.


Support

I have lived in Virginia on and off for the last 10 years and plan to live there again after the pandemic.  I am a member of UUCA.  I have a transgender sister, and have had the joy to know many youths, transgender and cisgender and non-binary. The pandemic has shown us that schools are not just places of teaching, but so much more.  All people deserve the right to be seen for who they are and treated with respect.  It is wonderful to commit to this ideal through schools. Finally, having read through some opposition comments, it seems very based in fear.  I truly think the youth of today are navigating gender acceptance beautifully, and there is nothing to fear in supporting young people in this manner.  If hateful parents would rather homeschool their children than have them taught expansive kindness and love, then that just means those negativities will be gone from public education.


Vehemently oppose!

A gross violation of human rights, religious freedom, and the rights of parents. Please opposed this! There are many better ways!


Strongly Support

All of our students should feel safe in our schools. Please keep our transgender students safe.


Support of Transgender Students

I am a parent of a kindergarten student in Richmond Public Schools. All students should feel safe to be their authentic selves at school. I strongly support this guidance for treating transgender students with the dignity and respect they deserve.


Strongly Supported

Strong, data supported guidance is exactly what is necessary in situations like these.


FULLY SUPPORT

I fully support legislation needed to promote the health and well-being of trans youth.


Strongly oppose transgender mandates

At a minimum, it is irresponsible and irrational to implement a far-reaching policy that could do more harm than good for children enrolled in public schools. This proposal strongly advocates for a very small minority of students, and tells everyone else that parental rights and student safety no longer matter. Parents are responsible for caring for and supporting their children- it’s a right and a responsibility under the law. This transgender policy would allow students to change their name, pronoun and use opposite sex bathrooms without the knowledge or permission of the students’ parents. This policy has many unintended consequences as well. For example, bathrooms and locker rooms would no longer be safe for girls when you give a boy the opportunity to access a girls bathroom, all in the guise of a transgender student. To make matters worse, a teacher or staff person couldn’t confront students  under the proposed policy. This defies common sense and is a recipe for disaster. And lawsuits.


Strongly oppose!

I strongly oppose supporting of this bill re: transgender influence from sources other than parents. I do not support activation of any programs within the school systems to promote this or influence our children to do so.


I STRONGLY OPPOSE

I am strongly opposed to the proposed VDOE transgender policies.  Teachers are not supposed to take over the role of parent.  If there is an important event in the students life the parent needs to know so they can handle it on the home front.  It is not healthy for any child to be one person at school and a different one at home and for the teachers to be gagged about struggles the child is going through.  Also, if a parent is not supportive of the child's so called "preferred gender" because of religious reasons according to the Constitution of the United States the the state may not interfere with the practice of that religion.  All of this in addition to the students at school who will not be comfortable sharing dressing rooms and rest rooms with those of the opposite physical gender, or those who claim for the day to be one gender and go back and forth.  This is not a well rounded nor balanced proposal and will cause more harm than good to all involved.


Protect our trans students

Our students should feel accepted, supported, and protected, not traumatized and scared. Protect our trans students and support them!


VA Dept of Ed Transgender Policies

I ADAMANTLY OPPOSE these policies!  School districts/teachers have no business infringing on the rights of parents and children by indoctrinating young people with their leftist ideas.


Strong Support

I strongly support any effort to provide an inclusive and safe environment for transgender youth in Virginia schools.


Absolutely oppose

This should not be imposed on children under 18 as they are not mature enough to make gender decisions.


Strongly support protection for our trans kids

Our students should never feel unsafe or targeted at school. Please protect our trans students!


STRONGLY OPPOSE


Support

I fully support this proposal because trans kids (and all kids) deserve to feel safe, respected, and valued in school.


Strongly oppose these suggestions

I understand what the intent is here, but children are not equipped to work through such complicated issues while they are still growing and learning about the world and themselves, ESPECIALLY not without parental/guardian guidance. There is absolutely no way I would consider sending my children to a Virginia public school with measures like these in place.


Luke Mullet, Eastern Mennonite University

I Support these Policies

I support the implementation of the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools.  I believe that schools should be places where all people can learn in an environment that is emotional and physically safe, free from bullying, and one that honors and respects their identities. Welcoming, providing support for, and attending to the needs of trans, genderqueer, and nonbinary students is a crucial component of making the VA education system a more equitable place. Our schools should be places where all students can grow, find belonging, and be their authentic selves. Our policies should therefore be rooted in love rather than fear. It's from this fear that we maintain education systems that harm people -- religious freedom and free speech arguments should not be used to sustain gender-based violence and continue the erasure of people's identities. Luke Mullet Eastern Mennonite University


Strongly Support

The support of transgender students is important for not only a childs mental health, but also for family dynamics. We need to let these children know they are welcome and supported by the community and schools


Rudy Comer, recent graduate of VA public schools

Strongly Support

I strongly support this. I am a recent graduate of Virginia public schooling and know, both through my own experiences and those of my close friends and community I've found at school, how hard it is to grow up as LGBT youth. There are a lot of people who seek to harm us, intentionally or unintentionally, and I hope that changes like this can help make sure that transgender students have at least one ally in their corner. I think that this document does a good job of addressing the different issues/concerns present and how to deal with them in regards to transgender students. I am not surprised by and am actually somewhat sympathetic to the fact that there are some parents in this comment section who are concerned about how this policy also outlines privacy and confidentiality for trans students who are not "out" at home. However, I think that this is very important for the safety of trans + gender questioning students. I have known so many students, including myself, who have gone through serious harassment and abuse at home for their gender expression, non-conformity, or identity. I don't think that it's reasonable for a school to do a thorough home-life investigation of each of their students, for both practical and ethical reasons. Even if it were, I don't think that schools have an ethical right to decide for a student who may be at risk, what risks they should be subjected to. I think that if a student decides they would like to go by a different name/pronouns at school, or desires any other gendered accommodations, that A) that should be respected and B) should not be reported to parents without the student's knowledge and permission. These policies may sound extreme to some, but they really are a very basic level of accommodation and security. It really does warm my heart that there are people helping to support us, and I hope that this kind of policy can become standard procedure.


Strongly support protecting transgender kids rights

Please protect these kids.


Strongly support protections for transgender students

As both a parent and an educator I would like to express my strong support for state guidelines to protect transgender students. LGBTQ individuals face stress and anxiety associated with society's response to their identities from an early age. Much too often this leads to self harming behavior and even suicide. It is our responsibility to protect these students just as we would any other students. Furthermore, it is NOT the responsibility of the government or public schools to comment on the morality of student's identities or orientations. We should reject the hate expressed by so many in this venue and do our part to protect all children from hate and fear.


Strongly Oppose

My mind was blown when I read the layout of what Virginia Dept of Education is considering.  To each his own if you chose to go a different way other than your God given gender, but to #1 have my child get in trouble bc he messes up and calls them a he instead of she or vice-versa depending on the day is absolutely ridiculous. In a world that already changes so fast for anyone to keep up, the thought that my up and coming pre-k child would be reprimanded bc we chose to teach him a different way of life is not fair in any form. #2 last time I checked my husband and I chose to create a child and I birthed him and we still have our rights to make ANY decision for him until he is 18. So for the state to tell me that if we raise our child the way we see fit we will be held accountable for child abuse blows my mind. How is me raising my child with my beliefs and God given sex any different than someone else raising their child to self identify. Each family is choosing a way to raise their child. One shouldn't be subject persecution and the other not. If this is something that will be placed into effect, my child will not be enrolled in VA Public schools.


strongly disagree with this

I agree that every child should be comfortable at school. This being said my children that are girls and address as so will not be comfortable changing cloths in front of a boy that identifies himself as a girl.  I think this will open the door to a lot of unsafe hurdles for our children.


Support the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students

I am impressed with the model policy doc, which would guide schools to craft implementable policies that can help to reduce stigma, provide guidance for teachers and staff on best practices, and promote an inclusive learning environment. Public schools are designed for all children, and must serve all children. This policy doc covers key issues that schools must address to make that happen.


SUPPORT

My family and I support legislation that would increase the health, safety, and well-being of transgender youth in Virginia schools.


Strongly support

regardless of what you may believe about transgender people, they are just that:  people with thoughts and ideas, people with opinions and beliefs, and people who are often taken advantage of in society and the statistics go along with that. Transgender people are more likely to kill themselves, transgender people are more likely to be bullied, trans women in particular are much more likely to be murdered. Passing something like this is the beginning to giving basic protections and rights for people, The most valued people in our population, our children. Please do not sacrifice the rights and protections that you could give to these vulnerable people, your citizens, your constituents just because of a few “concerned” moms, it’s not about them it’s about our children. About making sure that a transgender kid sees his public servants protecting them and feels valued. Many transgender children and young adults killed themselves because they feel as if society did not except them and does not support them. Opening  the door for your support will save lives, it will change minds and hearts. This is a small first step and I hope you take it.


DO NOT APPROVE of transgender policies

I DO NOT approve of these new transgender policies. It takes all power away from teachers and parents and is a COMPLETE overreach of the schools into private homes/families. The public education system will come crashing down when a large number of people withdraw their children from public schools as a direct result of these horrible policies. DO NOT allow these policies in place in Virginia public schools.


I strongly support protections for transgender students in Virginia’s public schools and in any schools that receive taxpayer support. Transgender students are at a high risk for bullying, suicide and other mental health students. They deserve the same quality of education and to feel safe at school and I thank the Virginia Department of Education and the VA state legislature for implementing and upholding protections for students. Thank you.


Hannah Grieco, Education and Disability Advocate

Support Trans Students!

Trans students are some of the most at-risk for mental health crises, bullying, home insecurity, drug abuse, etc. Anything we can do to provide a safe, supportive learning environment is an absolute need. Let's ensure public schools are at the forefront of inclusivity, rather than allowing bullying (from students, staff, or even other parents) via so-called religious choice to force kids back into masking, hiding, and crisis.


Strongly oppose

I strongly oppose. In my opinion the solution is to create extra bathrooms for transgender students to use so that nobody feels uncomfortable.


Do NOT support!

There is no way shape or form I would ever support this. Children are CHILDREN, they need our guidance & wisdom. How many times did you go through phases in your youth? This is something that could have negative long term effects on our youth. When I was in school, as a girl, I could get in trouble for wearing a “spaghetti string tank top” or shorts/skirts that were shorter than my finger tips by my side because it could be “distracting” to boys. Now you’re saying that girls can take off their shirts completely during P.E.?! And sharing locker rooms & bathrooms are totally fine?! If a child believes they are trans, that is between them & their family until they turn 18. The majority of the population isn’t facing trying to decide if they want to be a boy or girl. In no way should any of these things be


Strongly support - Acceptance and support can't stop at LGB

Bottom line: Always listen to trans parents and students (even anonymously) about policy suggestions related to transgender people. No one knows better what's best for trans people than themselves. I graduated from Atlee High School in the spring of 2016. During my time there as someone who is not heterosexual but wasn't very out about it, it was clear that even as LGB students were whispered about, transgender students face the worst of the harassment due to the fact that harm can occur simply by referring to someone incorrectly. I've read several of the "strongly oppose" submissions so far and they seem to boil down to either religious objections- which repeat the same arguments from ten years ago against anti-LGB discrimination policies - or harmful anti-scientific ideas about "confused children". The idea that one has to be 18 to be allowed to ask people to respect their gender is inane, patronizing, and harmful, even to students who may identify with their birth gender later in life. Exploring one's orientation and identity is completely healthy, and there is zero evidence of assault cases resulting from allowing people to access facilities corresponding to their gender. Equally inane is the idea that transgender students must attend private/charter schools (which requires parents' support AND financial capability) in order to be fully accepted in their daily life as their correct gender. I fully support educating students about transgender identity, as much hurt comes from simple ignorance- perhaps it could be combined with sex education. It would be extremely helpful if these courses were taught by someone who is trans or part of the LGBTQ community, as I've seen LGBTQ education harshly impacted by the instructor having limited or outdated training. Consider reaching out to former students who are now instructors and still live in the area. I also encourage the public to remember that education will be implemented as kindly as possible  - you aren't going to be sued, fired, expelled, or have CPS called on you for accidentally misgendering a person once or twice. Implementing these policies is a learning process for everyone.


Strongly opposed/Model Policies,Treatment of Transgender Students in VA Public Schools as written

I am against the policy as written, specifically in regards to schools being permitted to help students explore, facilitate and make decisions regarding their gender expression, without the knowledge of their parents! Parents, not schools, have the right to teach children about sexuality and the school system should have no rights to teach or encourage this.  Parents and legal Guardians are responsible for all aspect of their children’s lives financially, legally and morally NOT schools.  I would disagree with anyone who asserts a child can have the mental reasoning/capability to decide if they have a different sexual identity other than the natural sexual identity they are born with. Especially when these same school systems are teaching children/teens that the rational part of their brain isn’t fully developed and won’t be until age 25 or so. I also am against the policy as written regarding the use of preferred pronouns which can change from day today. Just as it may be confusing for someone who believes they are in a transgender position it is equally as confusing to those who are not who now will be held accountable for honest mistakes caused by confusion regarding changing pronoun usage, resulting in unfair harassment/discrimination allegations and/or charges. Additionally I believe naturally designated males and female should use separate restroom/locker rooms. Females are already at a higher risk for sexual assault and allowing males to freely have access to those private rooms could potentially lead to further risk of abuse. And alternate neutral gender restroom could be provided to eliminate or reduce those risks. Let’s not alienate one group of students to promote another. Equal is Equal, one group should not be made to feel less protected to comfort another group. Parents are the Parents they should in no wise be kept from having Full access, complete and uncensored, to all teaching and disciplinary actions given to their children while in the public/private school setting for any reason.  Every student regardless of age, sexuality, religion, race, disability etc should have safe access to a full education with no concern of retaliation from students and staff regardless of their believes.


Support Trans Students!

I am in full support of a safe and supportive environment for all students including transgender students.


Strongly Oppose

Without the science, I strongly oppose this!


Fully support

I fully stand for a safe and supportive environment for all students, including transgender students.


Strongly Support

As a student who has witnessed the horrible treatment of my transgender, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming classmates during my time spent in Chesterfield County Public Schools, I strongly support these new policies to protect their rights and promote a learning environment that values acceptance over bigotry. Physical and verbal assault from classmates and inaction on behalf faculty and staff were very much prevalent all throughout my education under CCPS. I only wish these policies had been present years prior to prevent years of unchecked gross mistreatment and harassment of a vast student body as well as a lasting impact on their childhood that will follow them for the rest of their lives.


STRONGLY SUPPORT

I fully support legislation needed to promote the health and well-being of trans youth. Thank you for bringing such important matters to the attention of our policy makers.


Strongly Support

Trans students deserve to live their truth and be fully and wholly accepted by their community. Failing to allow a safe space for free gender, emotional, and creative expression leads to depression, anxiety, low self esteem, bullying, and development of other mental health issues and the possibility of self harm. Any assertions against gender expression are deeply seated in prejudice and religion and have no place in modern society.


Equal Treatment for Trans Students

Treat all students with equal dignity. Transgender students deserve the same rights, respect and education.


Strongly oppose transgender studies and promotion


transgender policy

STRONGLY OPPOSE   males are males and females are females


STRONG SUPPORT

I am in full and unequivocal support of measures that help trans students feel safe and supported!


STRONGLY OPPOSED

This is absolutely insane and dangerous for parent/child relationships. The school system would be heavily overstepping boundaries by enforcing these asinine "rules". Elementary aged children should not be exposed to these behaviors nor should they be exploring their sexual identities with school staff, ESPECIALLY without parental consent/involvement. Everyone should be treated fair and with kindness, but this is far beyond justifiable. Teaching children to be kind and love one another regardless of difference is one thing, this is a whole other ballgame. Females allowed topless if they identify as male? Are you kidding me? This is extreme and very worrisome as a mother of two young school aged children. I will not support this extremism nor allow my children to be subjected to this in school.


Ben Doherty (Charlottesville City Schools parent)

Strongly support these guidance policies protecting trans students in public schools

As the parent of a current Charlottesville City Schools student, I strongly support this guidance document and its policies protecting trans students in public schools.


Proposed Transgender Model

As a women's basketball coach, I want to express my strong opposition to the proposed Model.  We are already seeing a devastating effect on women's sports where the level athletic playing field has been tilted.  Transgender women still possess the bone and muscle structure of men, and have a clear and sometimes dangerous advantage over women in sports.  It is the height of irony that the 30+ years of strides made in women's athletics are being undone in the name of "helping" women.  Transgender women are breaking records and taking scholarships that rightly beyond to women alone. This is bad from both a scientific and public policy perspective. Thank you.


Unfair Biological Advantage

As a former Virginia public school educator, tax payer and retired armed forces officer I absolutely oppose any effort by Virginia to allow biologically advantaged males from competing against biological females in all sports. It is a universal fact that males are superior in many ways to females thus creating unfair advantage. The damage done to women is already being felt in states that have allowed biological males to compete, win, set records and dominate HS sports. I can’t believe this is even being considered let alone debated. Please stop this potential abuse of women now!


STONGLY OPPOSE

STRONGLY OPPOSE


STRONGLY OPPOSE  males are males and females are females


Treatment of transgender students

Strongly support this guidance!


Strongly Support- Protect Trans Kids

I have grown up in Virginia all my life, and it is where I went to school. I am thrilled that we have the chance to support our transgender peers and students. From my understanding, all that is being asked for is respect, and for others to hold their judgement, and yet many seem so opposed to supporting transgender students, that it is more evident than ever that they need protection. These are children and they are being discriminated against, and that is not okay. I strongly support the proposed legislation.


Support

As a non-binary student, I absolutely support the Model Policies on the Treatment of Transgender Students. I go to a magnet school for the arts and technology, one that is very welcoming and supportive of every student, no matter their gender or sexuality. However, I attended a school beforehand where too many students openly bullied transgender kids on the basis of them being trans. I myself never experienced harassment or bullying based on my gender as I didn't come out until I left said school, but that does not mean I was blind to what my peers went through. I often hear some of my fellow transgender and non-binary students at my current school speak about the horrific bullying and harassment they received at their former schools. This should not be okay. Every student should be able to get their education in a space where they feel safe. This proposed rule will make Virginia a better place to learn in than ever before, and I thank you for your commitment to ensuring safe and welcoming schools for all. Sincerely, Cas Myrick


Please support transgender students

Please support transgender students


Oppose this regulation

Parents and children belong are part of their family and this policy does not respect the critical role parents have in their children's life.  I oppose legislation that interferes with that relationship in such a sensitive area of life.


Oppose

Potential response: I strongly object to the Virginia Department of Education draft proposing a new policy regarding transgender ideology in our schools. It would interfere with parental rights and responsibilities, puts more stress on teachers and students alike,( re pronouns and names) in everyday speech, privacy issues regarding bathroom and locker room facilities, even proposes to enforce clothing issues. In addition it disregards the sensitivities of teachers, administrators and students whose religious faith or conscience prevents to from accepting the “transgender” ideology. All people regardless of their inclinations are entities safety and freedom from bullying and prejudice, but this proposed policy is extreme and unacceptable.


Do NOT support!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Transgender should NOT be discussed in our school systems.  Bathrooms should not be shared by different sex no matter how you identify.  I do not want to send my children to school and worry about their safety or well being. They should be able to go to the bathroom or locker room and not worry about someone from the opposite sex looking at them. If the Bible can not be taught in school then transgender lessons should not be as well.


Strongly support

Thank you, I support this document.


Support all students.

As a mother of a non-binary student I fully support this Bill.


Strongly oppose to birth gender boys in girls locker rooms

I strongly oppose birth gender boys to be allowed in girls locker rooms, or even on girls sports. No matter what gender they identify


Support transgender policies

I want to add my voice to those who which to protect transgender students, and allow them to take part in public schooling without shaming, without having to "pretend" to identify as a different sex, and without worry about using bathrooms etc. We know gender is not an on or off switch.  We know enough to understand that these students need support and nurturing-- not shaming.


OPPOSE

I do not agree with this at all.  You are stripping our children of beliefs and forcing them to adhere to another belief.  They are being taught already to stand up against their parents.  We are constantly being forced away from our conservative views by those in power.  This is complete bs boys and girls should not use the same bathroom or locker room!!!  What is going to stop a boy from saying he identifies as a girl just to get in with the girls and do harm?  You are not protecting our children you are setting them up for harm.  I will be pulling all my children from public schools and the brainwashing/abuse that is waiting for them.


Strongly Support

I strongly support this. All children regardless how they identify deserve equal protections under the law and equal, non-discriminatory access to public schooling. Bullying and discrimination have no place in modern society, let alone public schools. Again, I STRONGLY support this.


STRONGLY SUPPORT

I fully support legislation to promote the health and well being of trans kids. Supporting trans kids and their families is extremely important to me. Thank you.


STRONGLY SUPPORT-TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS

TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS! Protect TRANSYOUTH


Strongly Oppose bc Policy is extremely flawed

As a parent & educator, I find these “Model Policies” developed & recommended by the VDOE to be extremely flawed on many levels. I have put a few points of major concern, but they are in no way an exhaustive list of concerns & grievances: There is a lack of expertise from key figures. I see many school officials & pro-LGBTQ+ groups being asked for their expertise, but no outreach for expertise from non-academia related doctors & psychologists. Science experts that attest to gender/sex as binary are also missing from comments. This should have been a collaborative effort from all sides of the aisle to form model policies that seriously effect the safety, health, and overall well-being of our children & students. I do not see any resources or proof that gender affirming & transitioning policies have any positive effect on the long-term psychological well-being of transgender individuals. In fact, studies actually show there may not be any positive effects, so why would a Dept of Education be promoting these policies without ample proof. Here are some sobering statistics: 90% of transgender research subjects are lost to follow-up, so no one knows how many go back to identifying as their birth gender (Paper Genders by Walt Heyer) Paul McHugh, MD cites a study that found that individuals who had had transgender surgery were about 5 times more likely than the control group to attempt suicide and almost 20 times more likely to succeed (What Percentage of Transgenders Regret Surgery by Susan Ciancio) There are already numerous existing laws and policies that protect all individuals from abuse, harassment, bullying, discrimination, etc. More policies are not needed, unless they are trying to restrict the freedoms and liberties of others that are adversely affected by the application of such policies. These policies usurp & undermine the parents’ authority of all the students. Here are a few examples of how the parent is purposely left out of important decisions for their child’s mental health & development on both sides of the issues: For the mental health of the student wanting to change, why would the parent not be notified of a huge life altering decision. As we all know, children need the support of their parents to succeed at most anything in life. The parents are paying the taxes used to fund the schools & salaries of all involved. By this, are you asking a child to live a double life? Be different at home than at school. What are the long-term effects on the child for living like this? “School divisions will need to consider the health and safety of the student in situations where students may not want their parents to know about their transgender status … There are no regulations requiring school staff to notify a parent or guardian of a student’s request to affirm their gender identity...” (Recommended Standard, p.12) Children exposed to the opposite biological gender in locker rooms have safety concerns & rights too. Not telling parents or even the students that the opposite biological gender will be in the bathroom/locker room that doesn’t align with their biological gender is harmful & damaging. At the least, it would be wise for parents to advise their children about something they are unfamiliar with and be able to have a healthy discussion. Somewhere in the middle, the biological female having to undress in front of a biological male can be damaging especially if the female is not mentally ready for the opposite biological gender to see them fully or partially unclothed (and vice versa). At the most, what if there is known or unknown sexual or physical abuse perpetrated by a member of the opposite biological gender? That student will face irreputable mental harm & potentially danger if shared bathrooms/locker rooms are to be used. A parent & child must have an opportunity to address the myriad of issues/problems with each other, school officials, medical professionals etc. “In addition to adhering to all legal standards of confidentiality, school personnel shall treat information relating to a student’s transgender status as being particularly sensitive, shall not disclose it to other students and parents, and shall only disclose to other school personnel with a legitimate educational interest.” (Draft Policy, p.12) Disciplining a student based on an incident or complaint without a parent present or notified carries significant ramifications. Just because a school wants to have such authority, it cannot ignore the child’s due process guaranteed by the Constitution. Police do not even have this authority, why would we give it to school administrators? Parents cannot be held legally and/or monetarily responsible for an incident or complaint if they weren’t involved. If the discipline requires the child to not attend school or ride school transportation, the parent cannot take time off from work or drive a child to & fro without being involved. This is utterly absurd to involve parents only when the incident or complaint rises to legal/criminal levels as the below language infers. “Any incident or complaint of discrimination, harassment, or bullying shall be given prompt attention, including investigating the incident and taking appropriate corrective action, by the school administrator. …The [School Division’s Designated Contact] shall be available to hear concerns from students or parents when complaints are not resolved at the school level.” (Draft Policy, p.10) The burden these policies will put on our teachers and school administrators is too high. As a parent, student, & teacher, I would need to know the exact levels of discipline for each infraction listed. Since gender identification is subjective & the number of students that are in our schools, it is virtually impossible to keep track of the preferences. On a personal level, yes, you would try very hard to be accurate. We are not talking personal level; we are talking mandated perfection among a populous famous for finding themselves & discovering who they are daily- it is innate with their age. That is the purpose of learning and being among your peers. To hold teachers, school administrators, and other students accountable to somehow know on any given day the preferences of a every child seems unrealistic & impossible. In conclusion, these policies violate the values and principles of so many Virginia families. We have laws already in place to protect the safety & well-being of all students. These policies do not benefit the majority of students. In fact, only .07% of the 13–17-year-olds in the US identify as transgender. Why would a government department initiate such a sweeping, impactful policy that only addresses .07% of the US population and adversely disparages the remaining 99.3%? To me, it seems like these policies are only designed for some other reason as the costs, efforts, and overall burdens it imposes on the majority is a price that is way too high.


C. Garrett, Charlottesville High School teacher

Strongly Support -- Inclusion promotes safety

I strongly support this proposal, as a teacher, parent, and coach.  The issue is not whether enforcing this proposal will cause the issue of transgender acceptance and normality to rise or fall; more scientific findings are released, revealing the actual biology supporting non-binary sexuality and identity, and the discussion of transgender/non-cisgender identities are thankfully more and more routine.  The issue for me is that we create a culture of inclusivity and safety in our schools, for it's from that place of safety and inclusion that students will be able to learn and perform.  For trans and non-binary students, this does NOT happen when we force them into sex-based dress codes, activities, pronouns, etc.  The discussion of sexuality, gender, identity, and orientation is (clearly) a complicated one, but we can ensure students are provided safety, kindness, compassion, and inclusion FIRST, so that they then are positioned to access and engage with the academic requirements of school.


Strongly support

Everyone should be treated fairly and with dignity.


Transgender Policies

Seriously!! This is not one persons decision to decide what are children are subjected too, the parents are the SOLE people to decide how their children are subjected to stuff! Taking the parents parental rights away is ridiculous!! Stop with believing politics makes you God!! This entire world needs to get back to our faith and believe in the Lord almighty! This just proves the stupidity in our country right now! I one do not push any believes on my child,  I am here to guide her in her decisions and help her understand things she may question! As a teacher or administrator for the public schools how in the world did you even come up with these policies and honestly feel good about what you are trying to do! Look in the mirror and if you helped with the writing of these polices, look at yourself and Ask this question what in the hell am I thinking, this is not for us to decide, this is a parents right not anyone else! If you are attached to the policies and trying to push them through SHAME ON YOU!!!!


STRONGLY OPPOSE! Save our daughters!

Give transgenders a single stall bathroom. Don’t submit our girls to the potential of sexual harassment or abuse. Men can easily overpower a woman or a girl!


Transgender Policy- Strongly Opposed

Strongly Opposed


Support

I support the model. The key guiding principle of the model policies is that all children have a right to learn, free from discrimination and harassment. I support these principles and policies. 1) At this point in our cultural evolution, we can not stop adolescents and young adults from questioning their sexuality, and making decisions about who they are and how they identify themselves. 2) Our ultimate goal is to support children so they grow into confident adults who feel included, loved, and supported. Anyone who feels "different" and is made to feel different than others, ends up growing up in a much more challenging manner than when they are given a safe and supportive place to grow and learn. 3) The American Academy of Pediatrics (2018) also acknowledged that, “variations in gender identity and expression are normal aspects of human diversity.” Whether or not a person agrees with this diversity, we must support all of our children, and this model is developed with science, facts, best practices and can evolve as we all learn more.


Oppose

This is not a good solution for protection of our students who do not live as their birth sex. It would not likely provide the protection we wish for them. Nor does it protect the other students.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

Thank you for taking comments. We as parents as not asking schools to take over our role in raising our children in sensitive areas like gender.  STAY OUT of the gender games and get back to teaching. If issues come up, parents MUST be notified.  If biological males are sharing a bathroom with our daughters, that needs to stop and parents must be notified.


Strongly support transgender students

I strongly support equal treatment/access for transgender students.


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

VEHEMENTLY OPPOSE! G overnment officials do not have a public mandate to enforce gender promotion in all taxpayer funded schools and jeopardize the bodily privacy and safety of our children.


Support!

Support!!


STRONGLY SUPPORT

It’s important to have proper policies like this in place until it is more known how to aid our trans communities. It’s important that everyone have the right tools, trans rights are human rights and they deserve to be understood and taken care of just like the rest of us!


Strongly agree

I believe that in the society we live in today things will only keep progressing. VA public schools should make these changes so that trans students can feel more comfortable and less like an outcast because they are not being given the same things are their peers. All the parents complain this is crazy and against their religion and kids are too young to make these choices. You don’t know these other people and your religion shouldn’t be stopping kids to express themselves and truly be who they feel they are. No more bigotry in our schools, change should be made.


Strongly Support

I support the model guidance because I want school environments that are safe and welcoming for everyone.


Support

I am writing in support of the Model Policies on the Treatment of Transgender Students. As a nonbinary student in a supportive environment, I'm extremely grateful for the kind, considerate actions of my friends, classmates, and school. Everyone should be able to learn in safe, understanding school environments, no matter who they are or what they're dealing with. Gender is fluid and dynamic, and no one should feel rooted to one strict answer for the rest of their lives. More empathetic rules like this would encourage trans, genderqueer, and nonbinary students to explore themselves and not feel threated or trapped by bureaucratic systems without any room for them. I felt comfortable explaining my relationship to gender and expressing it at school, and I wish that for everyone. My school feels like an accepting, welcoming place, and I have a much better relationship with education as a result than I would otherwise. This should be the case for everyone. Sincerely, Kat Brinkman (they/them)


Strongly support

All students have the right to safety in schools


Reality time

Be careful not to confuse feelings with reality, or preferences with rights. Self-identification cannot be the measure by which we make broad-sweeping policy, especially regarding children whose brains are not fully developed. Our current societal elites (media and entertainment powers) have thrown many youth into confusion. It is entirely possible to love and respect people without making broad policies which give legitimacy to a biological impossibility. None of this even addresses the preferences of the VAST majority of people who prefer not to use the bathroom with someone of the opposite sex, and prefer not to intermingle males and females in athletic competition. And let us not make broad, sweeping policy based on minute percentages of people who have intersex biological exceptions. These anomalies are quite obviously being used to justify and rationalize perfectly biological males and females who believe and/or wish to be the opposite sex. At some point in life, mature people know when to stop talking and when to get real.


Strongly Oppose

Mom that strongly opposes.


Strongly support

Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools, which was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools.


Transgender

I strongly oppose


FULLY SUPPORT

I fully support legislation needed to promote the health and well-being of trans youth


strongly oppose

I agree with children being comfortable at school however these proposed guidelines are not ensuring that EVERY child is comfortable at school, only those who fit this mold.  As a parent I am appalled that my young children would be subjected to the proposed situations and be uncomfortable, especially my daughter.  She should not have to fear going into the bathroom or locker room to change clothes with a boy because that's what he/she/they/it identify as that day.  This is a disgusting world our children unfortunately have to grow up in and they are losing their innocence so quickly, especially with these proposed guidelines.  As a Christian woman I teach my children to be accepting and love everyone but I draw the line when they are made to be uncomfortable to meet a political driven agenda.  If these guidelines pass my children will absolutely not be enrolled in VA public schools.


Opposed.

I can not in good conscience agree this policy offering is the answer to address the transgender concerns. Everyone agrees that no one should be bullied or face intimidations that make life harder than it is. Yet the policy appears to do more harm than good in that it appears to silence the voices and ideas and concerns /feelings of others , removing the possibility for thoughtful dialogue intended to help out other positive & often proven solutions. There are other ways to address our desires for the transgenders safety and ability to grow/learn & flourish without restricting the rights and ideas of others. Please go back to the drawing board to come up with something that works for everyone.


Full Support

I wholeheartedly support any legislation that will make schools safer and more supportive of transgender youth, so these students can focus on learning rather than concerns about their safety!


Strongly opposed 2 this

I believe there are 2 genders ...male and female. This would open the door for misuse and huge problems. If they (people that want to be opposite gender) choose this lifestyle that is there business but they are the ones that need to conform to the situation not the other way around.


Strongly support

I strongly support anything that will provide trans students with an equitable and safe learning environment. All students deserve that.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

Strongly oppose the indoctrination of our children to radial leftist ideologies or to bend for special treatment of "protected groups".


STRONGLY OPPOSE

Protect our girls! PLEASE get the transgender kids the help they need, but don't endanger our girls by denying biological, genetic reality that a boy is always a boy and a girl is always a girl.


I strongly support this policy

I want to start by saying I have read many of the other comments citing religious texts as reasons to oppose these policies. These arguments should be null and void, simply on the grounds that it breaches the ideals of separating church and state. Beyond that, these policies are put into place with the student in mind. They should be allowed to learn in an environment free of discrimination. Students that are trans are already at risk of higher rates of self-harm and suicide than their cisgender classmates, and 40% of youth experiencing houselessness in the US identify as LGBTQIA+. These statistics represent hurdles that our trans youth face already, and this policy is a step in the right direction for creating a more inclusive environment for ALL students.


Model policies on transgender treatment

I strongly disagree with states, school boards, and teachers manipulating their gender fantasies on our students.  Boys have no business in girls bathrooms, locker rooms and sports.  They were created males.  Same with girls have no business is boys bathrooms.  They were created as females.  Parents have the rights to protect their children and the right to know what is being taught, how they are being manipulated.  I do not want this policy passed or implemented in Virginia or any state.


Strong Support

Support basic dignity and humanity. Those who maintain that the freedom to identify across genders is somehow unnatural relative to some archaic, mythical standard can go wipe with a leaf “the way nature intended.” An empowered society can only exist when its institutions empower its individuals to understand and express themselves fully.


Why do we promote Science as fact with medicine, climate change etc, but deny biology DNA & gender?

Why do we promote Science as fact with medicine, disease, creation of the Earth, climate change etc, but deny scientific biology of DNA & gender? Stop the madness.


Absolutely Opposed

These guidelines further confuse children's responses to issues with which some adults wrestle. We should not be saddling our children and educators with these restrictive policies. Let the children grow as they naturally are intended, and allow the educators to do their trained jobs. Parents rights are at great jeopardy and our nation's future is at stake with this type of government oversight. Please reconsider these guidelines!


Strongly oppose -- tramples parents' rights, violates privacy, denies rights of conscience

I strongly oppose the current VDOE proposals for policies regarding transgender students.   These policies (1) trample parental rights and responsibilities, (2) deny girls their rights for safety in schools, and (3) deny both faculty and students their rights regarding matters of conscience, subjecting them to harassment and discrimination for simply holding their beliefs and convictions. (1) The proposed policies trample parents’ legal rights, plus their parental responsibility, when school employees help students explore and make decisions about expressions of gender identity without notifying the parent.  These are personal discussions and decisions that belong in families, not in schools.   Also, these policies would wrongly prohibit schools from notifying parents if a biological male is using the same changing facility (designated for girls) as their daughter.  Also, parents would wrongly not be notified that their child is being interrogated by school officials for allegedly violating these policies. (2) Under these policies, all students would be allowed to use any bathroom or locker room they choose, without being questioned by school faculty or administrators, jeopardizing both the privacy and safety of other students who have no say in the matter.  This violation of girls’ rights to privacy on restrooms and locker rooms is astonishing.   We have separate restroom and locker rooms in the first place expressly because we recognize that girls and boys are biologically, physically different and both have rights to the privacy of their bodies.  These rights are not granted by government; they can only be recognized – or in this case, denied – by governments.  Forcing girls to accept the presence of biological boys in these rooms is a blatant disregard for their legal and moral rights.  No girl or woman should have to endure the violation of being seen by a biological male against her will while she is in any state of undress. (3)  There are no exceptions or accommodations for a student or teacher whose religious faith, conscience, or understanding of biology and sociology differs from  “transgender” ideology.  This is coercion of belief, and it is unconstitutional.  The rights of parents to hold and teach their own beliefs about sexuality and gender to their children would also be violated if/when the parents themselves are at risk for being reported for child abuse or neglect by the school – not for any true abuse or neglect, but for simply holding and teaching their own constitutionally protected beliefs and convictions. I do not approve of these guidelines.  They are based on philosophically tenuous theories that ignore observable, objective biology (the biological sex of a baby is observed – not assigned -- at birth with a visual examination of a physical body).  We can be compassionate with children whose self-view of their sexuality is based on feelings without violating the rights of others.  These policies erase all differences and distinctions between male and female and indoctrinate our school children in beliefs in a subject area that is beyond the proper sphere of public education.  These policies threaten both adults and children, both faculty and students, with harassment and discrimination for holding any other beliefs.  This verges on criminalizing beliefs, despite conscience and religious conviction, and it is deeply concerning to me as a citizen of the Commonwealth of Virginia.


Strongly Agree

I support the protection of any student’s rights regardless of biological gender. We as a community must support and hear the voices of our transgender and non-binary students. We cannot let bigotry erase their stories or their identity.


THIS IS NOT KIND

" Conditioning children into believing that a lifetime of chemical and surgical impersonation of the opposite sex is normal and healthful is child abuse" - American College of Pediatrics Stop abusing children. HELP them to accept the gender that their DNA says they are. Walk alongside, don't steer them off a cliff.


Strongly Support

I strongly support this model in which transgender and binary students are treated with dignity and respect.  Our education system should provide a welcoming and nurturing environment for all students all the time.