Support the rights of Transgender Youth

I have been a Nurse since the mid-1980s and am now a professor in a VA state university. My experience has shown me that youth can clearly have an appreciation for their gender...especially when they are labeled a gender that does not match themselves. Please don't give credibility to the ill-informed who claim there is no reason for schools or the State to become involved in these issues. We need to protect the vulnerable. It is foolish to think that these policies would 'hurt or harm' other children. We have had numerous transgender students become Registered Nurses after completing our programs. Their ability to engage with fellow students, patients, and other healthcare workers was not at all affected by their gender identity. We must resist the false belief that "it is the parents' responsibility" because we know that parents have had a history of abusing, terrorizing, or rejecting their children who don't meet their expectations as a 'young man' or 'proper young lady.' Our society is much too diverse to pretend that we all must fit into one of two small, limited boxes. Lastly, I will say that democracy is more about protecting the rights of the minority (esp. the vulnerable, stigmatized, or marginalized) than it is about protecting the 'purity' of the majority (whose rights are much less likely to be trampled upon).  I strongly support the rights of transgender youth in our schools!


I support this measure

Trans children need the support and validation that every other child gets.


I support the guidance.

I support the guidance.


Transgender changes

Opposed Gender dysphoria is classified as a mental disorder.  Why are we forcing our children to change their environments to support and “play along” with members that are diagnosed with a mental disorder?  We should protect our children from being FORCED to make adaptions to protect societal members who have disorders when those adaptations clearly effect their own feelings of safety. My children find it distressing to change in a locker room or go to the bathroom with someone whom genitalia are different from their own.  We have taught them, and we should continue to teach them that this is a private matter.  Their bodies should be safe guarded from perversions.  I feel this bill presents a major slippery slope for the ability of sexual predators to prey on young children. My question for a trans-gender person, “would you use the bathroom of your assigned gender at birth if you knew that it would keep 1 child from being molested?” Unless or until there are adaptations that allow for both presenting bodies (non transgender and transgender students) to feel comfortable in their environment then this bill should be tabled. Why are we not promoting a plan that allows for individual bathrooms for everyone is beyond me??


Gender science is still in flux

Gender and transgender science is still in a state of flux. There are many recent studies on gender and transgender individuals and societal issues but few, if any, are definitive and widely accepted. One fact is sure, and that is that adolescence, the period following the onset of puberty during which a young person develops from a child into an adult, is the most critical for the formation of gender identity. See: Gender dysphoria in adolescence: current perspectives https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5841333/ (2018). Adolescence is generally defined as occurring from ages 13-19.  As anyone who has been a teenager can attest, feelings towards oneself, the opposite sex, or the same sex, are all in a state of flux during these critical years. I believe that it is inappropriate to mandate certain behaviors in schools K-12, but particularly for ages 5-12.  Biological sex may be more easily identified by children and adults, but transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals are not always easily identified without their help or verbal disclosure. The proposed policies will, in effect, force pre-puberty students and adolescents to make both choices and disclosures concerning their own gender or gender identity before may be ready to do so -- and, in many cases without proper education, counseling, and the time and reflection necessary, in order to do so appropriately. Additionally, this proposed mandate requires a tremendous task of school teachers and administrators, who are unlikely to be fully-equipped and trained to manage all that is expected of them under these policies.  Widely accepted LGBTQ+ and gender identity education and tolerance courses would need to be required for all school teachers and administrators and be settled in advance before these policies could be effectively implemented and maintained.  In summary, gender identity science is not fully settled; adolescents and pre-puberty youth are at risk if policies are not wisely tailored to their needs; and, a lack of complete education and preparation in schools and school districts will invite more harm than good.


No!!!! This is sooooo wrong!

Absolutely ridiculous that this is even a thing!! If an adult chooses to change their gender, sure. But to hide allowing this in schools of children!! No!! And I'll be dammed if someone tries to take my kids for this !!


Absolutely NO!!!

This shouldn’t even be a topic! Absolutely No!


Oppose

I support fair treatment of transgender persons, just as every person deserves; however, I think this policy definitely oversteps parental rights. I will not be sending my children into an environment such as the one outlined in this policy. I support the wellbeing of all children.  Again, there are many disturbing proposed policies within the draft.  One of the most egregious, is the proposed authority given to school personnel to withhold vital information from parents regarding the wellbeing of their child and provide guidance while withholding vital information from parents.


The title is completely misleading! If you ONLY read the TITLE, do NOT support this!

The title is completely misleading, "Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia's Public Schools." Who wouldn't want that? ... ***However ,*** what the 26 page document would ACTUALLY establish is a totalitarianism environment where teachers and administrators become the ultimate judge and jury between a parent and a child. How can this even remotely be considered legal, much less constitutional? There are Guardian Ad Litems for a reason. There are courts for a reason. There are schools for a reason. Each of these three entities have definitive, and DIFFERENT roles in society. Teachers and Administrators have ENOUGH on our plates, crammed into only a few hours. I am there to TEACH, not PREACH. I am not there as a police officer or a judge. The topic of transgender rights is not a problem to be solved in SCHOOL . If special situations arise, there are guardian ad litems, and courts for those specific situations. Do NOT MAKE OUR JOB MORE DIFFICULT! We are there to pack in knowledge, NOT to be judge and jury in a family situation.


Strongly Support

I am in support of Transgender rights and any policies made that benefit their well being and quality of life.


I completely support.

I fully support this and think it is a necessary legislation for every school to have.


Protect Transgender Rights

If we do not protect the rights of transgender students here and now, then the pro-discrimination people will win. My high school experience was hell based on the fact that I was not protected as an LGBT individual. The school system will not provide protections for these students, will do nothing to shield them from the bullying (because even in the public schools, there are always cries of "but it's against my religion!"), but when the student kills themself due to all the hate they're receiving, the school system either does one of two things: they either lie and claim that they tried to help through crocodile tears, or they shrug their shoulders and move on as if nothing happened. There are school counselors in these facilities that are openly outing students to their parents and the people they live with, which is directly putting students in danger. Those counselors have no idea of what the at-home family dynamic is; if the student gets outed, then said student could now be at risk for abuse and neglect, or even being kicked out from their home. We need protections for all LGBT students within the school system, and I believe that our transgender students are a good place to start.


Transgender students

I believe there only two genders, male and female.  I also believe that elementary and secondary school students are too young to decide to change their genders.  I am opposed to presenting such options to pre-adolescent children. They are too easily influenced and may be led down a path they would otherwise not take. We should learn to live fully within the body we were born with, before we go changing it to become something we are not.


Strongly Opposed.

Since when did it become the government's job to tell us how to think and behave? This is a slippery slope. Of course we should all respect one another's differences, and be kind to each other, however ordering people to do things that they may or may not agree with is bordering on Communist. Last I checked, we lived in the land of the free and the home of the brave. I also agree with the gentlemen who commented before me. Sharing this with elementary and middle aged school children who are still trying to figure out their place in the world is cruel. Social services would be called if anyone was trying to force a child to do something that bordered on abuse. That is what you will be undertaking if we are forced to suggest or guide children in a direction In which they may not understand.


Looks like Orwell's 1984 is here

Really?  You are blatantly legislating to use the state to protect a child from their parent?  I guess we really are heralding in life as depicted in Orwell's 1984! “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) Just teach core curriculum needed to exist and thrive in our country.  Stop pretending teachers are psych experts.  Enough.


Strongly Oppose VDOE proposed policy re Transgender Issues

We want to register our strong opposition to the proposed VDOE rule changes re transgender students.  This is NOT a school or school system issue, but is a family issue that should be left to individual students to discuss with their parents, and absent parent consent to a gender identity change, should be left to when the individual reaches the age of maturity in order to effect this change on their own.  School aged children should not be able to make this life-changing decision on their own.  It has too many long-term implications that they are not mature enough to weigh and consider.  While we believe, and our faith teaches, that God created us to be either male or female, if one of our beloved children wanted to discuss this issue with us, we are the ones equipped -- after a lifetime of experience and love with that child -- not a school administrator, to lovingly consider all aspects of that child's then circumstances and mindset to reach a determination on this issue that is right for that person at that time.  And if they disagree strongly with us, their parents, they will have time and space to make their own decision on that issue when they are old enough to be considered by society to do such things as vote or enter the military.


This will hurt all students

The new policies under consideration will cause immeasurable harm to all students in Virginia, including those it purports to help. Forcing the 99% of students who do not identify as transgender to comply with the preferences of the 1% who do is disproportionate and a violation of the rights of the 99% to privacy and security. This will also hurt the 1% by exposing them to the shame and taunts from their peers who disagree. Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, but pretending that everyone will be is just denying reality. Furthermore, forcing the 99% to give up their own comfort and safety will only encourage those who are not yet mature enough to act with empathy to act with hostility. This will be exacerbated as girls lose actual benefits such as athletic scholarships if they are forced to compete against biological males. This will also hurt the schools as parents and children who do not agree will choose alternatives such as private schools and homeschooling. This will reduce the amount of funding available to the public schools. It will also exacerbate educational inequality as the families with means are able to take advantage of the alternatives, while those without are forced to leave their children in situations where they feel their children are threatened or with which they fundamentally disagree. This is especially true when schools are encouraged to hide information from parents who they believe are not sufficiently "supportive". Depending on how the guidelines are interpreted, they may also very well violate the law. The proposed document's description of the First Amendment says "schools may not prohibit students from expressing their identity". But any law school student knows that the protections are much broader than that. Schools may not prohibit students from expressing themselves, period, including expressing opposition to, disgust with, or antipathy towards others. Attempts to do so in an effort to prevent bullying may very well cross the line into censorship. Furthermore, opposition based on religious belief is also protected by the First Amendment. This is particularly true where the policy tries to require school staff to use a pronoun that a student prefers. This is coerced speech, of the kind which the First Amendment is particularly hostile towards. In other states where similar policies have been implemented, there has already been significant amounts of litigation. Given the level of opposition within parts of the state and uncertainty over whether such policies are even legal, the state would be much better advised to wait until what exactly the state and local boards can and cannot do before implementing these kinds of policies.


In full support - ALL students deserve to be safe!

I've been an educator for 15 years and have witnessed first-hand how school policies directly impact the lives of students and their families. I've been lucky enough to work in schools where children who came out as trans or non-binary were met with compassion, understanding, and support. I've also worked in schools where students who came out were met with indifference and resistance. We know that children who are trans and non-binary suffer in school systems that fail to recognize their identity. Research also shows us trans and nonbinary students are more likely to experience bullying, harassment, and violence at school than their cisgender peers. The policies outlined here will ensure that students at all Virginia schools will be safe, be recognized and celebrated for who they are, and get the support they need to thrive.


Specific Comments on Document Content

I appreciate your time and consideration in creating such a document for the protection of transgender students. I found the document well written and inclusive of all gender identities. I especially appreciated the inclusion of non-binary student identities, as well as the guidance for creating gender inclusive activities and dress codes. However, I have the following comments: Please reemphasize the importance of safety and case by case solutions for those students whose parents do not affirm the student's identity in the last paragraph on page 19, continuing onto page 20. Please consider encouraging professional development for educators as well as SHMPs on page 18. Please consider elaborating in the last paragraph on page 20 on positive actions for staff to take such as guidelines for those educators who wish to be "ambassadors", or the inclusion of safe spaces within schools. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this guidance document.


Thank you for supporting child health

For children, the Virginia public school system provides an education as well as a support system. In their adolescent years, children are still in the process of learning who they are, and it is of the utmost importance that they feel safe to express themselves without judgement or criticism from educators, counselors, or peers. Research has clearly demonstrated that providing children with such an environment decreases prevalence of depression and anxiety in children. In fact, the guidelines of this report are directly in line with recommendations made by the American Academy of Pediatrics. I commend the Department of Education on taking this step towards ensuring that Virginia public schools are welcoming, safe, and supportive for all students.


I oppose your plan for transgender students.  I applaud your efforts to help these students but this

I oppose your plan for transgender students.  As a parent, taxpayer and a faithful attendee at church, I do not support this laissez faire approach.


Transgender Student Policy

I am writing in support of the Model Policies on the Treatment of Transgender Students because all students should have equal access to education where they can thrive and reach their full potential. Virginia has always been an education model for other states and we should be here too.  No one deserves to be bullied, harassed, or discriminated against in their school, which is a place where they are supposed to be able to learn and be a part of a community that accepts them for who they are. Schools teach students how to succeed but they also teach students how to treat each other. This proposed rule will make Virginia schools a better place to learn for transgender and nonbinary students, which creates a better learning environment for all.  Thank you for your commitment to ensuring safe and welcoming schools for all Virginia students. I am an academic advisor to students and I have seen the negative impact on academics and mental health when students are not treated with the respect and dignity that should be afforded to all humans. Sincerely, Regina Largent


Safe spaces for all students!

Regardless of how a student identifies, a school should be a safe space. Just like any other rules that are present to protect others from harm, I believe there are necessary steps to take in order to protect transgender persons. Being a young adult is difficult anyway, and allowing them to feel comfortable exploring their identity HOWEVER THEY SEE FIT. Please protect our adolescent population.


Strong Support

Trans youth already face significant discrimination and subsequent mental health consequences including increased suicidality. Protective measure like those suggested by VDOE are a step towards creating safe and inclusive spaces for these kids.


Reject Totalitarian Policy Proposals

Reject Totalitarian Policy Proposals


Sinful and horrible policy

I strongly oppose this unbalanced approach to transgender.  What if a student truly finds this to be heresy of the highest degree, does she not have protection or tolerance or policies that accommodate? Does a jewish child get a kosher school lunch? We all make choices or are given immutable characteristics.  The government cannot protect everyone and every feeling.


Trans students are students

LGB youth have 5x more likely to attempt suicide compare to cis heterosexual youth. And for transgender youth, the rate is even higher. Using correct pronoun and name decreases trans youth suicide by half. Unless someone decided trans youth are not human and they should just die, I can’t see any reason why making school a safer space is a bad thing. Furthermore, a more inclusive environment can improve life for all students. Trans students are student. And they deserve to live. Plain and simple.


Equal Rights

Trans students are students. To not protect them would be disgraceful, and against your messages of “equality.” Transgender youth have one of the highest su*cide rates out of any demographic, and studies have shown that being inclusive and welcoming of transgender youth significantly decreases their chances of su*icide attempts. This would help change students lives, and even save lives.


Delete entire section. (Promote tolerance is fine, but this policy and entirely different goal)

"Whenever school personnel suspects or becomes aware that a student is being abused, neglected, or at risk of abuse or neglect by their parent due to their transgender identity, they should report those concerns to Child Protective Services immediately. Before making a decision on policies relating to situations when parents or guardians are not accepting of the student’s gender identity, school divisions should consult their school board attorney. " Remove delete this section. In no way should parents be questioned in raising their children.


Stop transgender.. it is morally wrong and child abuse

Stop Transgender it is morally wrong and child abuse


All students should be supported.

Supporting all students is essential to making schools safe places for learning. Students have a range of needs. Transgender students live in a world where they are minoritized and therefore have more mental health issues, higher suicide rates, worse school performance, etc... Studies have shown that transgender people, when supported and affirmed, can have better outcomes and healthier lives. This is a step toward helping transgender youth to feel safer and unincumbered in their route toward the same success that non-minoritized students take for granted. I support any move toward leveling the playing field for students, and transgender students could use support in this area.


This is simply a human rights issue

Every child deserves a “safe space” for education regardless of their gender, color or sexual orientation. I support transgender rights and hope we can offer all our children a place to thrive.


Enthusiastic Support

I strongly support these guidelines as they strengthen and broaden protections for Virginia’s youth. The right of a transgender individual to express themself is laid out clearly in the first amendment and their right to discretion is outlined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. These additional guidelines are simply protections of systems that are already in place to help transgender youth in Virginia feel comfortable and safe. In order to reduce the risk of mental health issues and improve the wellbeing of transgender youth, we must continue to protect their rights and secure them a place of acceptance and proper treatment in public schools. These guidelines are commonsensical and long overdue, so it’s time to ensure the wellbeing and safety of Virginia’s youth.


Support in order to protect Virginia's Youth

I support these guidelines in order to protect Virginia's youth.  This guidance document was written in light of evidence-based best practices on this issue. Research has found that attempted suicide rates and suicidal ideation among LGBTQ youth is significantly higher than among the general population. This vulnerable population requires specific protective guidelines for their safety.  Providing a safe learning environment and opposing harrassment and discrimination for all of our children and youth is a human rights issue and one that the commonwealth of Virginia should adopt as soon as possible.


Emphatic Support

The fact that the right of all schoolchildren to have a safe and supportive learning environment that is free from discrimination is even up for debate is appalling. This should be a given. Teachers and school leaders should be making it their priority to create a welcoming environment for every single student, and to ensure bigotry does not enter their classrooms. Unfortunately, this is an issue we have to legislate. Transgender students are frequently the victims of bullying and harassment, and this policy will help to take that away which is essential for the wellbeing of Virginia's children. Any attempt to invalidate their rights or identities is not based in science, immoral, and has no place in a school.


I am opposed

I am opposed to the guidelines being suggested dealing with transgender students.  While my beliefs on transgender children differ from the suggested guidelines, this is not why I disagree.  I believe that this proposal will lead to further discrimination.  ALL CHILDREN deserve to be protected from bullying.  ALL CHILDREN should have their voice heard and respected.  By mandating special circumstances for one group of students, whoever they might be, you are automatically discriminating against children who don't fit into this category by making special accommodations that will impact a small portion of the student body.  A better solution would be to teach children who struggle with bullying, how to get along. Everyone is different.  Discrimination is frequently redirected from one group to another in a misguided attempt to regulate.


Transgender Policies

I oppose the policies being pushed forward. I understand the issue and it is sensitive, but you can't harm more than you help. Why not fund a transgender school. I am  pulling my child out of public school in part due to policies like this.


Oppose - Unequal Consideration of all students

“Schools frequently maintain separate restrooms, locker rooms or other facilities for males and females.Schools frequently maintain separate restrooms, locker rooms or other facilities for males and females. Students should be allowed to use the facility that corresponds to their consistently asserted gender identity. While some transgender students will want that access, others may want alternatives that afford more privacy. Taking into account existing school facilities, administrators should take steps to designate gender-inclusive or single-user restrooms commensurate with the size of the school. When schools have available gender- inclusive or single-user restrooms or private changing areas, these restrooms or areas should be accessible to all students without special codes or keys. This would allow for any students seeking privacy to access single-user restrooms and private changing areas voluntarily. should be allowed to use the facility that corresponds to their consistently asserted gender identity. While some transgender students will want that access, others may want alternatives that afford more privacy. Taking into account existing school facilities, administrators should take steps to designate gender-inclusive or single-user restrooms commensurate with the size of the school. When schools have available gender- inclusive or single-user restrooms or private changing areas, these restrooms or areas should be accessible to all students without special codes or keys. This would allow for any students seeking privacy to access single-user restrooms and private changing areas voluntarily.” As the parent of girls, I am highly concerned about my daughters sharing a locker room, restroom, shower area with someone born male.  Regardless of how the person identifies, they were physically born male and retain they physical size and characteristics of a male.  Imagine how uncomfortable every female student in a locker room will feel accommodating a person who may identify, but physically remains male. There will be no reasonable way for a majority of the girls to use the one or two private facilities if the small number of transgender people want to use the shared locker room.  It also isn’t reasonable to ask the school to accommodate the logistics and timelines that would be necessary to make this work. Additionally, the potential size and strength differences between people born male or female increase as they enter high school or college ages.  The safety concerns of one of my daughters finding herself alone in a restroom or space with a physically larger male is terrifying. The entire concept of shared space seems counter to everything we teach our girls about personal safety.  Please please please remove this requirement and think of the impacts on a majority of students.


A long needed proposal, I heavily support

There is nothing more precious then our children. Our civilization is not built on the present, but the future. All of our children must be cared for equally and without bias, for they are that future. Children who have had bias inflicted on them must be looked after and supported by the schools they attend.


Fully Support

As a mother and as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I fully support legislation needed to promote the health and well-being of trans youth.


Strongly Support

I strongly support this. EVERYONE deserves to feel safe and this is a great step in the right direction.


Not the role of the schools

Allowing transgender males to use female locker rooms and restrooms and vice versa creates an unsafe environment for every for non transgender student. Additionally, keeping information about a student from his or her parents is absolutely unacceptable in any situation that involves the student at school. The school is NOT the parent or guardian and supporting students wishes that are in opposition to the parents wishes when it has to do with the health and safety and upbringing of their child is criminal It is not the schools job to teach children about the LGBT ideology.


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

Strongly oppose - will not help kids with gender dysmorphic issues, will harm the 99.99% of students who do not have these issues.  School teachers have NO BUSINESS getting involved in students' sexual development decisions. All that is needed is a single bathroom available for anyone.  But girls/female only and boys/male only bathrooms must not be removed.  Do not put the 99.99% of students without special issues, whether gender dysmorphia or something else, into extremely uncomfortable social and private situations and then teach them that their feelings are "not accepting", wrong or even "mean".  They are none of those things.


Virginia parent opposed

Transgender children should be treated with compassion and understanding. Bullying of any kind should not be tolerated. With that said, cutting off parental knowledge and input is unacceptable. Parents have the moral and legal responsibility for the well-being of their children. This policy appears to aim to cut parents out of decisions that can have life altering effects on their children. With the exception of absolute emergencies, medical decisions regarding children cannot be made without parental consent. I fail to understand why we would make an exception for this situation unless there was an alternative agenda.


OPPOSE

OPPOSE


Virginia Parent Opposed

I oppose the proposed legislation. While it is admirable that the state of Virginia wants to help students who feel bullied, allowing students to use whichever locker room, bathroom, or hotel room they choose puts students more at risk. Do you want a boy to follow your teenage daughter into the bathroom when no one else is around? Keep in mind he can just say he felt like a girl that day. Allowing students to choose what gender they think they are is also not fair to girls in sports. Another reason I oppose the proposed legislation is because it bypasses the parents. Parents have to sign their kids' report cards and show up for parent teacher conferences because it is important for them to be involved in their kids' educations, right? If parents have to sign off on what grade their kids get in music class and how many hours they practice per week, isn't it so much more important to involve parents when their kids wonder if they should take drugs to change their genders? Also these drugs increase the risk for depression and suicide. Even if you don't care about the kids, this is a lawsuit waiting to happen. The Virginia Board of Education is going to get sued when a girl is sexually assaulted or even just stared at by a boy in the middle school bathroom, when a teenager on puberty blocking drugs that the school helped him get without his parents' consent commits suicide, and when boys who say they are girls start winning all the track and field events. I would not vote for school board members or Virginia Board of Education members who promote this legislation.


SUPPORT

I teach, support, and love 100% of my kids. I want you all, 100% of you, to know that you are loved, you are valued, and you deserve to feel safe and included 100% of the time. Even if you do not sit in my classroom, I want you to know that I support you, I love you, and I believe in you. <3


Very strong support

Transgender children need to have the same rights as cisgender children. Plain and simple. Having to go through school and puberty, while also dealing with discrimination should NEVER be put upon a child. Mental illness such as depression which can lead to su*c*de is much higher in trans youth than in other demographics. If implemented this could potentially lower those numbers and provide a more supportive and productive environment.  Do your part to help save children’s lives.


Transgender Policy for Students

I strongly OPPOSE this. It will cause confusion to young children, cause abuse in bathrooms and locker rooms, and has nothing to do with education. Parents are in charge of their children, and schools should not hide anything from parents. I’ve worked in elementary and middle school for many years, and I know that students may use this to cause a lot of problems for teachers. Teachers already have much to deal with besides implementing a sexual agenda. Teach children the basics so they can grow up to be productive happy citizens with a sound mind. I STRONGLY OPPOSE.


SUPPORT

I support this bill and support stopping any kind of bullying in our school system.


Strong support

This type of policy is necessary to avoid so much mental health issues including suicidality. For the 95-99% of students that are cisgender, nothing will change, except that they can not bully trans youth. For the trans students, they see acceptance and hope for future. Parents are not affected, in fact are told exactly what will be done and why, no secrets withheld. Please read the entire policy before blindly opposing.


I Strongly Support

I feel that all youth have a human right to feel safe in schools. Policies that support this are only going to move us closer to a more just society. People can have their beliefs and values, but at the end of the day we have to see everyone as a human being no matter how they show up in the world.


I disapprove of this radical push to eliminate differences between females and males and the brainwashing of our children and grandchildren.


Strongly Support

I strongly support this. People assuming that random kids will just change their identity to "peek" on others is completely unfounded. No kid in their right mind would do that and have to face the bullying and other things most trans kids get in school. Kids can be hatefully mean and most kids do what they can to NOT draw attention to themselves. Also to the people scared their daughter will be in the locker room with a guy. Also not true trans girls are girls end of story. There is alot of hate here for trans girls. yet no one cares or is focused on trans boys or non binary folks. At the end of the day trans folks are the gender they say they are no amount of hate or denying will stop that. They are all valid and all should be loved. If your worry is your kid using different pronouns or names at school versus at home maybe you should look at yourself and ask why it is your child doesn't feel comfortable talking to you about these things. All children should feel loved and supported. As a transwoman myself I say all trans kids deserve love and support and to feel safe in school and at home. The sooner everyone gets over their closed minds and sets aside whatever hang ups they have to support their children the better. Love your children no matter what.


Parent Opposes this policy as  it is written

I Support Safety of All but Oppose lack of Privacy and Endangerment of those non- Transgender.  By infringing on one party's rights, this is not a just or fair solution.  For example, It is ridiculous that anyone can enter the girl's bathroom without being questioned.


Transgender Policy for Students


Strongly oppose forcing parents to accept this agenda

I oppose forcing (no exceptions are allowed) everyone to accept this draconian agenda and permitting boys into girls bathrooms "because they feel like a girl". Disciplinary action because someone fails to use the correct pronoun- sounds like we're in a police state. A state I no longer which to live and support if it passes.


Two Genders Only

I strongly object to this bill. The state has no right to indoctrinate and confuse our children with this gender lie. There are two genders according to the Word of God. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; MALE and FEMALE created he them.” Genesis? ?1:27? ? ??So, it’s male and female, man and woman. Any person or Department of Education Bill saying otherwise will not change the truth. Maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination bullying, and harassment for all students, hopefully, is already a rule in Virginia schools.


In Full Support of Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in VA's Public Schools

I am in full support of policies that protect and support LGBTQ+ students in Virginia. Research shows that trans and nonbinary students are more likely to experience bullying, harassment, and violence at school. All students deserve a quality education free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and schools have a moral, ethical, and legal obligation to protect them. In addition, these policies will not only protect students, but will empower educators and administrators with the knowledge and resources needed to effectively support and advocate for students. I urge the VDOE to implement this essential policy guidance for K-12 public schools in Virginia.


Support

I support the guidance.


I object to change of policy

I object to change of policy


Opposed

I was unfortunate that I did not have the pleasure of having a child and that is why I am so sad when people (that should be adults) use children to advance their political views. Children need to be protected against predators especially when they are pretending to be "looking out for them". There are many countries that will send children to war at the age of 6 - 10. We as Americans think that is ridiculous and it is! I feel the same is true of thinking a child in elementary school is mature to be able to make life long decisions is ridiculous. Children are NOT adults. Physically they are not strong as adults and mentally they can not think and reason like adults. They do not have life experience that comes with adulthood. Our state had decided that children can not vote under 18, they can not drive a car by themselves under 16, buy a lottery ticket under age 18 or buy beer and cigarettes under age 21. The state and school systems should stay out of the business of sexual orientation. Let the children be children while they have the time.  Being an adult is difficult. Those over 21 need to stop thinking about ruling the world and just mind their own business.


Protect Trans Kids

Protect trans kids, they are human and deserve equal rights just


Fairfax Transgender Policies

Opposed to these policies which will create unsafe conditions for students, no matter their position on this issue.


Support

It is our obligation to support, educate and value ALL our young people. Transgender students are included in ALL!


Absolutely Necessary to Support our Transgender Peers

As a student, I wholeheartedly believe this proposal is a necessity to help make our transgender peers feel more welcomed in learning environments. No individual deserves to face unfair discrimination that affects their learning environment.


Virginia High School Valedictorian in Support of Bill

I strongly support this bill.  I think it is essential to have rules that transgender students can point to when they are being mistreated or discriminated against by bigoted individuals.  While rules that prohibit bullying are already in effect, a bill that further details these subjects would never hurt.  In addition, students should be able to feel safe using the restroom or other gender-related facilities that match the gender they prefer, rather than causing themselves and others discomfort.


Strongly Opposed

And those who are for it can leave the country.


Dangerous for all children

This document poses serious dangers for all school children. Children who do not identify with their biological gender certainly are in need of help and support - this document makes school authorities not only exempt from notifying and working together with patents, but even deliberately deceiving them.  (For example, school staff is required to call a child by the name he asserts but can communicate with parents using the child's legal name). These children desperately need help and support and understanding from home. School authorities,  who will be in their lives only briefly, need to support children in having a good relationship with their parents and help parents to understand their children better if their is some tension. Additionally, these policies will make children loose touch with reality. If my 1st grader insists on being called a 5th grader, is it helpful to my little one to have everyone call her a 5th grader and be allowed into the 5th grade classes and recesses? How confusing to her that would be! And detrimental to her education.  Yes, she need some patient and understanding teachers and parents to help her cope with a mismatch of desire and reality, but no one should confuse her further by pretending she is several years older than she actually is. And what about everyone else? What about high school boys who, in fact, identify as boys, pretend to be transgender in order to be allowed into the girls bathroom and locker room. Not sending my daughter to that school!! What about sports? Children who are biologically male but identify differently could unfairly dominate girls sports. After all the progress we've made in recognizing that girls can be athletes, too, that would be a big step in the wrong direction. And why couldn't every child in the school change his name, at least during school hours, because the legal name doesn't quite express the right gender-identity.  A child could change names every week as the gender identity changes.  It would create chaos. Yes, we need some help for these children.  No,  this document is not going to help children struggling with gender identity or any other children.


DOE Proposed Transgender Policies

The proposed policies for Virginia Schools supersede the rightful authority and responsibility of parents in their children's moral and physical development. i completely object to schools withholding information from parents on such a sensitive subject. To allow gender confused children access to bathrooms or locker rooms of their choosing represents an egregious violation of privacy for other students. The punitive actions proposed for those who use long-standing universally recognized English terms in lieu of the recent politically motivated nonsense championed by LGBT+ radicals is unjust and impairs students' education.


This is an issue of life and death

As a pediatrician, I applaud the state of Virginia for addressing the safety of its gender-diverse students.  The most common cause of death by far in transgender or gender nonconforming children and teens is suicide, followed by homicide.  The biggest predictor of future mental health is family support.  Many children do not have supportive families, and this leads to abandonment and homelessness.  While parents have first responsibility to care for their children and raise them with strong values, we cannot allow children to die because they are not accepted by their parents.  Having supportive schools where kids are accepted for who they are will go a long way to preserving life and mental health for these kids.   What child would CHOOSE to come out, knowing that they will be bullied and rejected, unless they truly believe that their gender assigned at birth does not match their identity?  Regardless of your knowledge or understanding of gender diversity, it is important to recognize that this is a life or death issue for these kids and teens.


support!! our!! trans!! students!!

strong support for this! everyone’s identities should be respected and these are a wonderful step the right direction :)


In support of evidence-based protections

As a pediatrician, I know that overwhelming evidence has shown that discrimination faced by sexual and gender minority youth has detrimental consequences for their mental and physical health and wellbeing. These protections are in line with both medical and legal understandings of sexual orientation and gender identity, and these students are obligated to receive the protections described in this bill, which are in alignment with federal law and jurisprudence as well as medical recommendations. At a time where state legislatures are taking up bills to further marginalize transgender youth and criminalize their medically necessary care, protections like these provide a beacon of light and practical value for transgender students in Virginia schools. For these reasons I wholeheartedly support these model policies.


I Support this Document

I fully support this document and am grateful for the writers who worked so hard on it. It is a meaningful first step toward protecting the rights of transgender students in Virginia K-12 schools.


strongly support

I strongly support this bill


STRONGLY OPPOSE THIS POLICY

Each child is important.  Why must we categorize children into "victim groups"?  Less than 1% (.6%) of the adult American population is transgender. Every child is unique.  Bullying is always wrong.  All children have times when they feel alone and different and may find themselves a victim of bullying.  It is the school’s responsibility to protect each student while in their care.  The school must keep parents informed and involved with everything related to their child.  If something happens to a child while under the school’s care or because of something that happened at school, including a discussion instigated by a school employee, the school will be responsible, and litigation could ensue.  All types of bullying is already addressed under the extensive anti-bullying policies and a new school policy is completely unnecessary. This transgender policy is extreme and scary allowing school staff to control and confuse our children about their gender and sexuality.  Under this policy, schools identify and counsel our children and they can do this without parental notification and involvement.  This policy even applies to elementary school students as young as 5 years of age.  This could cause much psychological harm to our children.  Children are easily influenced and frequently trust and admire teachers and school staff.  This process of identification and counseling could cause “gender confusion” where none exists, distrust of their parents and families, leaving the child feeling even more confused and alone. It turns our schools into psychiatric labs and endangers all of our children. Protect our female athletes.  Allowing someone with male genitalia to compete against females will guarantee that there will rarely be a female athlete to obtain sports scholarships and will destroy female sports. If the school determines that their plant is not safe for each student, they should turn public bathrooms and locker rooms into private bathrooms and locker rooms for the safety and privacy of each child. Our schools must focus on the education of our children and open communication with parents.  Do not approve this horrible policy which I believe will destroy our schools and children.


Support!!!!!!

Strong support for this and our trans students!!!! Great step in the right direction.


Do not approve the draft policies.

The proposed policies articulate views – such as the view that “Gender identity is considered an innate characteristic that most children declare by age five to six ” – that are far different from those of many parents. Through its blanket endorsement of views like these, the VDOE has gone far beyond the path the General Assembly prescribed. Schools have a duty to protect the bodily privacy and dignity of all students. No child should be forced to share showers, locker rooms, hotel rooms or other intimate settings with a member of the opposite biological sex. Many children would feel uncomfortable when they encounter a member of the opposite sex – particularly adults – in gendered facilities or when entering a shared hotel room as part of an overnight school activity. Children, particularly adolescents, can experience hypersensitive and traumatic reactions to these situations. Schools should not be accommodating the especially harmful view that youth is an appropriate time to be encouraging, in some cases, irreversible “gender transitions”. The model regulations infringe the First Amendment rights of parents to raise and care for their children. The Department’s proposed policies would pit children against their parents when it comes to important questions about sex and gender identity.


Support Trans Youth & Trans Students!

Transgender students deserve to feel safe and supported in their schools. Schools serve as a home away from home where students are able to express themselves outside of the home. Chances are that schools already have transgender or gender nonconforming students and by implementing these policies, they would not receive support and be able to be affirmed in their identity and personhood, but be protected by any bigots or bad actors that chose to have a problem with their mere existence. LGBTQ+ youth already receive a disproportionate rate of bullying as compared to their cishet peers, so by supporting this policy, we are able to protect those who might not have the ability or power to protect themselves (and we are also supporting the mental health of these students as well!!) and giving those in power, our educational faculty and staff, the resources and power to help be an ally and advocate for them. I fully support these policies and urgently encourage the VDOE to implement this essential policy guidance for K-12 public schools in Virginia. These guidelines and policies changes would've been so essential for me as a trans student when I was in middle school, so I hope we are able to pass them.


FIERCELY SUPPORT!!

Transgender youth and the LGBTQ community in itself face unnecessary discrimination everyday. Let's make a step in the right direction and make their lives a little bit easier. As someone in the Pediatric community I see the mental health effects every day from the discrimination these children face. I strongly support and hope these policies are implemented immediately!


Support

My family has always believed in treat others as you would want to be treated. I instilled this in my son as he grew up and am proud to say that he is fully supports everyone and who they are. Schools need to be safe from the ridicule of the outside world. The youth need to know that when they are at school, that they are safe to be their true and authentic self. I support this guidance because I want all of the LGBTQ youth to be in an environment that is safe and welcoming.


Strongly opposed to this policy

This policy is anti-God and anti-family.  It goes against our constitutional rights and will destroy children.


Support Trans Students!

Transgender students deserve to feel safe and supported in their schools as schools serve as another place for expression. Chances are that schools already have transgender or gender nonconforming students and by implementing these policies, they would be able to be affirmed in their identity and personhood, but be protected by any bigots that chose to have a problem with their mere existence. LGBTQ+ youth already receive a disproportionate rate of bullying as compared to their cishet peers, so by supporting this policy, we are able to protect those who might not have the ability or power to protect themselves (and we are also supporting the mental health of these students as well!!) and giving those in power, our educational faculty and staff, the resources and power to help be an ally and advocate for them. I fully support these policies and urgently encourage the VDOE to implement this essential policy guidance for K-12 public schools in Virginia!


Strongly support

I strongly support the equitable treatment of all Virginia youth, including trans youth and other LGBQIA+ in schools and beyond.


Opposed

Please oppose


In Strong Support

Transgender youth are among the most at risk for suicide, self harming behaviors, and being victims of sexual assault. In 2018, one in three transgender youth attempted suicide. 31% had experienced sexual violence. It isn’t cisgender students at risk of being assaulted by transgender students, it’s the exact opposite and the data supports this. This is a matter of safety and health, plain and simple. Trans students are not “less than,” they are students and deserve to be protected just like everyone else. There is no space for bigotry, hatred, and discrimination in our schools. I strongly support these changes. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/2019/02/22/research-brief-data-on-transgender-youth/ https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/pdf/trendsreport.pdf


Fully Support!

Alienation of transgender children in society and at the level of their peers is very well-established as a contributing factor in increased rates of suicide amongst these kids. Protecting children needs to include ALL children, not just cis-gender ones. Better education, recognition, and acceptance of trans folx is paramount in establishing a more successful, progressive society and this needs to start with you er generations. Supporting the rights of these children is essential for truly upholding Constitutional law, which unfortunately is being used at the detriment of trans and other LGBTQIA+ lives.


James Senson, former Fairfax County Public School educator

OPPOSE the insanity and lies; 2+2 = 4 (otherwise, why learn math?)

these proposals will encourage the increase of suicide and depression in a culture that is vulnerable to it with social media and confusing identity politics .  there is a such thing as truth, why not strive for it?


fully in support because anything otherwise is ludicrous

As a non binary/gnc person myself, I fully support ANY implementation of new policies that better the lives of other trans and gnc students, policies that I wish I had to support me. It would be SO beneficial to SO MANY lives, and could help prevent these kids from detrimental acts of self harm, suicide, self destruction. Acts that potentially could have such devastating psychological effects in the future. The pain and tragedy from the lost lives of trans youth has already gone on for too long. It has to stop now. To prevent putting in new policies that could save the lives of children is such willful ignorance if I ever did see it. We just want to be treated as human, so give us that. Do not let these kids suffer anymore, do not let them feel like they are less that enough. Because they are enough, every single one of them. And they deserve to be treated as such.


Strongly Support

Transgender students need the systemic support of school administrations to flourish at equal levels as their peers. This policy will help increase equity for a continuously marginalized community by providing them the social and infrastructural support to succeed academically, personally, etc. Opposition to this policy fails to acknowledge the often traumatic experiences of transgender children and their own cis-gendered and heterosexual privilege.


Oppose

This policy undercut parents’ involvement in the life of their children at school, and endanger the bodily privacy and safety of all students.


Trans rules are lunacy against commonsense destroying our young women


transgender policy

I strongly oppose this law.  God made man in his image: male and female, not an "it" or "they".  Children should not be subjected to intimidation by members of the opposite sex.


I do NOT approve of proposed guidelines

do not approve of their proposed guidelines based on radical theories that eradicate all distinctions between male and female and indoctrinate our school children. My hard-earned taxpayer dollars should go to teach scientific facts of X chromosomes and Y chromosomes, not to controversial and unscientific theories.


Strongly oppose!!

Dear School Board/ State Representative, First of all, I absolutely support the policy that no student should receive unfair treatment by students or faculty in public schools due to their sex or sexual orientation.  I support the civil rights act of 1964 and we should not discriminate on the basis of actual race, color, national origin, religion, sex or sexual orientation, or disability.  I am writing to oppose the proposed VDOE policy for the treatment of transgender students in Virginia Public Schools for the 2021-2022 school year regarding the following issues: If students are to be treated equally, then there should be no distinction between how students are treated consistent with their gender identity.  To treat someone different because of their gender identify is by definition discrimination. Regarding how a student’s gender identify is shared, if this is identified as Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and considered confidential along with their Social Security Number, birth date and address, then there is no issue or discussion between faculty and the student “how they prefer information about their transgender status to be shared.”  Faculty don’t share this information and the student shares it with whoever they wish. Forcing school staff to refer to a student by the student’s preferred pronoun violates the school staff’s freedom of speech.  How can a government organization force an employee to call a customer (student) be a specific name if that assertion violates the school staff’s religious beliefs (for example).  This violates the first amendment by prohibiting the free exercise of religion and abridging the freedom of speech.  If a student wants to be called by a specific name or pronoun, that should be a social contract between the student and whoever the student wants to refer to them by a specific name, like a nick name.  How can a person’s perceived emotional needs restrict someone else’s rights, and possibly effect their own emotional needs? If a transgender student’s parents do not support their child’s transgender identity, is that considered neglect?  If so, is this policy suggesting that school staff are obligated to call Child Protective Services on a parent that does not support their child’s transgender dysphoria?  Is the state to guardian of all public school students before the parent? “It is important that school divisions adopt policies and procedures that are focused on the safety of all students and seek to address privacy interests in situations involving individuals undressing or showering (pg 17).”  If this is true, then allowing students that are biologically different from their gender identity to access a restroom or locker room that is designated for students of the opposite biological sex, violates the privacy interests of the cisgender students.  Why should a transgender student’s preference, violate multiple student’s privacy interests who may or may not recognize the transgender student’s gender preference?  This would restrict cisgender student’s “access to restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities that are sanitary, safe, and adequate, so that they can comfortably and fully engage in their school programs and activities (pg 17).”  A feasible solution to this that considers all student’s needs, is to authorize transgender students to use the teachers restroom, but not to violate cisgender students privacy interests.  If it can be emotionally harmful for a transgender student to be questioned regarding the use of restrooms or facilities, it can be emotionally harmful for a cisgender student denied their privacy interests when changing or using the restroom by allowing someone of the opposite biological sex to share that space at the same time.  If a student attempts to enter the restroom or changing room of the opposite biological sex, it is the duty of the school staff (those in authority) to protect the privacy interests of cisgender students.  If a cisgender student’s privacy interests are violated by this policy, will a “multi-disciplinary school team meet with the student (and parents/guardians) to develop a plan to accommodate the student’s needs and requests (pg 20)?  If not, then this policy is hypocritical and the transgender student’s rights are deemed more important than the cisgender student’s rights, according to this policy.


Transgender policy

Stronglyoppose!


Transgender policies - Moderation please!

policies should give administrators tools to handle transgender situations, but parents should absolutely remain the decision makers for what their child learns and is exposed to. Moves like transgender in elementary school only reenforces the need for school choice - I think you’ll find many/most parents want to bring up loving and tolerant children while sticking to the basics of biology and allowing families to make personal decisions on any gender identity issues, confusion or concerns.


I oppose this

I oppose this. Not safe for students. Stop using our tax dollars for anything other than education.


strongly support

As an adolescent health provider I strongly support the proposed guidelines to ensure that transgender students have a safe and supportive learning environment.


Strongly Oppose

This is a terrible proposal. Transgender policy is based on a narrow set of flawed "scientific" studies designed to generate a particular outcome. No child should be forced to confront a child of another sex in a bathroom or locker room. What about the rights of 99.9% of students? Eventually, this policy will lead to the further erosion of parents' rights to provide the best care for their children, placing too much power into the hands of bureaucrats pushing a particular agenda.


COMPLETELY OPPOSE VDOE Draft Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender

As Virginia residents, my wife and I completely oppose the VDOEs draft model policies for the treatment of transgender. There is a biological truth to gender that can't be avoided, distorted nor be subjectively made into something that it isn't. We also believe that this is in no way the responsibility of any school to take up for instruction. Please use school time to teach reading, writing, math, science, social studies, civic responsibility and leave the rest to parents.


DO NOT SUPPORT these completely unacceptable and dangerous policies!  You are not the parents

I cannot even believe this is being considered.  It is in appropriate in every way.  My children will not be using the restroom or sharing a locker room with the opposite sex!  This is utterly disturbing and my children will no longer attend public school if these policies are accepted.


Strongly Oppose Transgender Policies

I strongly oppose the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools.


Heaven help our girls and women- they are the ones who stand to lose and be victims if this passes

It's okay to accept science, DNA and the obvious physical genitalia that identify boys and girls biologically as different.  It's okay to accept those differences, and to preserve what some consider 'old-fashioned' and 'out-dated' ideas of modesty.  Obviously if passed this will collapse at some point, because "first female" this or that has no meaning in a society where gender is somebody's idea at any given moment; girls are already losing out to boys "crossing over" and taking their spots in state tournaments and other physically competitive arenas.  Title IX (scholarships, etc) no longer have ground to stand on.  All sports = unisex.  The majority of parents are not supportive of this, so I guess we'll see if the far left (not liberals in general, but the extreme left) push through their world view onto the vulnerable.  And it's not real love if my father tells me that the toaster talks to him and I simply agree, "yes dad, toasters can talk and they talk to me too." That is false sympathy, a lie, and a shallowness in not wanting to really get to know the actual person struggling or needing help.  Real love for someone is truth with charity- you are a boy (or a girl), and you are okay even if you don't live stereotypical masculine or feminine ways.  Boys can love pink, girls can love blue!


transgender policies

Absolutely against it! these policies are taking over the parents' role to raise and care for their children according to their beliefs.


A doctor in support of this much needed document

I am a Family Doctor in Maryland and I know firsthand from work the damage from childhood bullying and discrimination. Furthermore, transgender children are at high risk for chronic depression and suicide when their daily environment is filled with intolerance and disdain. I support this proposal for equal, kind and fair treatment towards children regardless of their gender identity. Sincerely, Dr. Drostin


Strongly Support. This is good for all children, regardless of their gender or sexuality.

The medical community already has clear guidance and literature to support creating safe learning environments for LGBTQ children. The resistance to policies like this are a result of political extremism our country is struggling with for so long now. Social moderates on both sides of the aisle generally defer to medical and educational experts on matters like this.


Strongly Opposed -  This is institutionalized abuse of all students


Strongly oppose this far-left insanity. It has no place in our schools.

There is exactly zero scientific evidence to support the contention that gender confusion is anything other than a mental illness. The mentally ill, just like the physically ill, should be treated compassionately. We can and should, of course, do so without destroying the very fabric of our society. History will not judge this page in our history kindly when it looks back and sees the madness of chemically castrated children, men competing in and dominating women's sporting events, sexual assaults from allowing males into female bathrooms and locker rooms, and the destruction of our language with the creation of nonsense pronouns to describe genders which do not exist. Males produce sperm and females produce eggs. Sorry, but there is no third (or fourth, or fifth, or fifty-second) gamete.  Yes, sadly some people cannot produces those gametes. That does not mean there are no longer two genders any more than one person missing a leg means that humans are not bipedal. If our schools are to be places where the scientific method and critical thinking are of any value, then we must reject unscientific, irrational policies like the one proposed.


Va Motto

Va son's and daughters need to take their state back. Jefferson and Madison have rolled over in their graves. Send the malicious left to New York. Virginia is now known as Virginia is for Haters !


Transgender

A vote for this undermines family unity and parental involvement. It endangers young women's opportunities. Bad policy. We do not support. Let's figure a way to really help kids. This does not.


Not the Answer

Certainly all children should be taught kindness towards others - regardless of identificaton- be it political, religious, gender, or otherwise. But putting the school in this role in general, and in some instances inbetween parents and children, is unacceptable.  By all means, promote anti-bullying. But not everyone agrees that young children should be taught the existence of an infinite number of genders and the ability to choose one.


Strongly Support / Protect Trans Kids!!!!

Kids deserve to feel safe and accepted in an environment where they are learning. A child can not learn if they are constantly worrying about being outcasted/treated differently for their gender identity. Every child deeerves to feel accepted and loved and supported. It’s as simple as that


Strongly oppose!

Im a Suffolk resident, I strongly oppose these transgender policies


Trans gender crap

Strongly opposed


Strongly Opposed

Bad ideas


Transgender policies

I oppose these transgender policies.


Disagree strongly

Strongly disagree!!


It isn't about equality or fairness, it's about the core of education.

This isn't an issue of fairness or justice for transgenders, it's a issue of classroom control. By allowing students to force a teacher to use a preferred pronoun under penalty of disciplinary action, you are making teachers dance through a minefield of potentially ever changing preferred pronouns. Accidently say the wrong one and it will blow up on you. Teaching needs to focus on the education of core elements: language, reading, art, math and sciences, not on an indeterminant game of "Guess the pronoun". If you feel you need to have a policy, make it suggested one where the teacher uses a student's preferred first name or their last name when addressing them personally or talking about them in the third person.  Again, make it suggested that the teachers do this, not under penalty of disciplinary action. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to address this issue.


DO NOT SUPPORT

I do not support this legislation and believe it is a violation of my constitutionally protected religious freedom. If we pass this legislation we put our children in more danger and these state legislators who support and pass this will have to answer to Almighty God at the day of judgment.


You can help Trans students WITHOUT taking away parental rights and choices.

Oppose.


Transgender/school/restrooms/locker rooms

Strongly oppose.


Love, Respect, Empower

I want to express my wholehearted support for any guidelines that support vulnerable children and respect their pronouns and their individuality. I’m saddened by the obvious ignorance of some people displayed in some of the comments and pray that they open their hearts to recognize and accept our human diversity.


Absolutely not ok

Very sad it has come to this


Strongly opposed

We are uniquely designed by God and specially created by Him. Gender is decided by God and not for us to choose.


Comment in Support

I am a transgender citizen of Virginia currently residing outside of Virginia. I strongly support these guidelines.


Strongly support

I love this. Please support LGBTQIA+ students.


Strongly against

Strongly against


BE KIND!

Be kind.


Absolutely not

As a student, the biggest problem I have with this bill is anyone being able to use any bathroom/locker room they choose. I am graduating in a couple years so this bill won’t affect me as much as it will to others but I think about my little sister. I couldn’t imagine her coming home from school saying a male followed her into the bathroom or watched her change in the locker room simply because he was allowed to. Think about how uncomfortable this will make females. That a guy can stand in the locker room with them and watch them change and say it’s because “they identify as a female that day”


I STRONGLY SUPPORT THIS ACTION!!!

I am the proud grandmother of a transgender boy.  He is the  sweetest, most loving child you will ever meet.  He's only 8 years old now, but I know life will be rough down the road.  I want to do whatever I can to help him deal with something that he didn't ask for, but will become a challenge for him as he gets older.  I prayerfully hope that this Proposed Policy passes in the Va. Department of Health.


Strongly Opposed

My brother and I attended Virginia public schools all 13 years of Kindergarten through twelfth grade. Our parents were our best teachers in showing us how to love others, make smart decisions, be kind to others, exhibit moral behavior and to be a light in the world. We were raised in a Christian home with God as our moral compass. Now as a parent, my daughter has attended public schools for six years so far. She is sweet, kind, loving and such a gentle spirit. She loves God and her family. I do not want her to be taught about transgender issues, like it just becomes part of the regular curriculum. It is against our religious beliefs and is not how God created us - male or female. Children have young, impressionable minds and should not be taught in a way that can be persuasive for them to be told they can take medication to alter their hormones without their parents knowledge or approval?!?! Heck NO! We are the parents for a reason. We have been entrusted with the responsibility of raising our children and teaching them the difference between what is right or wrong and in our household, if it’s against the word of God, it is wrong! We do not want to pull our child out of public schools because she can be a positive role model to others, but if this “guidance” passes, we will either homeschool or enroll her in a private, Christian school. Please do Not pass this “guidance”!


Strongly oppose this policy

Such policies of this nature are more harmful, than helpful. The school is not responsible for the student determining their gender. That’s an issue between parents, child and birth determination.  Having children decide such matters is harmful, destructive and confusing to all.  Extremely opposed to boys in girls bathrooms and vise versa! This is litigation city for all!


Oppose

oppose


Support

I strongly support this document and any efforts put forth to ensure nondiscrimination practices for all students, including those who identify as transgender.


I strongly support the guidance

We are all equal and worthy of the same dignity and respect in the eyes of God


Strongly support

I strongly support these proposals. Every student deserves to feel safe and welcome in their school so that they can get an effective education, regardless of their gender identity or orientation.  Trans rights are human rights.


STRONGLY, STRONGLY OPPOSE!!!

This decision is highly immoral and unethical! The thought of a grow man being able to walk in on a little girl, scarring her emotionally, is appalling. The fact that people could even consider something like this is disgusting.


STRONGLY support!

This is so necessary for our students! Inclusive language and education is the hallmark of being informed and educated.


Object

I appreciate the concerns being addressed, but believe this is a wrong approach to deal with these issues.


The only right these policies are about are the so-called 'right' to sexually abuse children.

Pedophile policies by sodomites against the well-being of children. The sick sadistic people behind these policies and who support these policicies support violence and the abuse of children. They are uncivilized anti-human s.


Strongly support

I strongly support this legislation. Students deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to learn. This includes the respect of recognizing who they are.


Strongly support!

Trans rights need to be supported, especially among young people. By denying rights to trans people their identities are being erased or ignored, which has huge consequences on mental and physical health.


Strongly support

Trans rights are Human rights, and trans kids deserve to have a space where they are accepted for who they are, and having a safe school experience is extremely important!


This is the institutional sexual abuse of children.


Gretchen, taxpayer, and mother of four children

Strongly OPPOSE VDOE Transgender Policy

The VDOE Transgender Policy not only infringes on Parental Rights, it also further promotes Relativism which has no place in our public, taxpayer funded education system.  Additionally, the purpose of our education system is to teach the three "R's" (reading, 'riting, and 'rithmetic), while including Critical Thinking in teaching methods.  The current curriculum is erroneously teaching our children WHAT to think, rather than HOW to think.  Sexual orientation has become a marketing tool of the political left and has no place in the academia arena.  No wonder the public school systems are producing confused, unconfident, students who cannot write a grammatically correct sentence, or cite their multiplication tables.  If our children cannot be allowed to logically conclude absolute truths, such as male and female, then all aspects of education such as math, history, and science also become irrelevant, not to mention the act of teaching also becomes ultimately pointless.  Therefore, one must ask: "Does this proposed VDOE Transgender Policy lead to a loss of public school teaching jobs while parents abandon the public "education" system, embracing private education or homeschooling, as they realize their hard-earned money is being thrown away on a politically motivated and abusive agenda?"


I strongly support the guidance

We are all equal and worthy of the same dignity and respect in the eyes of God. I strongly support the guidance.


Oppose “Model Policy on Treatment of Transgender Students"


Strong support - ALL children should feel safe!

All children deserve to feel safe and respected at school! Thank you for looking out for our most vulnerable children.


Strongly support

As a Family Physician I am well aware that even minor adverse childhood experiences can have longstanding effects on the health of individuals. I am also well aware that gender affirmation and support from family and community is life saving for trans youth and adults. Not only is supporting trans youth the moral approach to Virginia’s children, but it is good and common sense public health policy on par with making sure that there is fluoride in our water, required vaccines and fire safety measures in our schools.


Strong Support

Support!


Oppose

I strongly oppose, with two young children, I cannot see how this solves any of the true issues at hand.  Instead, it is an over reach of the public school system to distance children from parents.


Trans rights are human rights

Trans rights are human rights. And trans kids need more protection than ever.


Draft model policies for treatment of transgender students

I am strongly opposed to any policies that give children the authority to allow  personal preferences to determine their sex and infringe upon the actions and rights of other children, teachers, faculty and parents/guardians.


9th Amendment

I am in complete support of this document. The world is changing - cultural, technologically, scientifically. Today people are allowed to express themselves in ways not possible just a few decades ago. And in the same way that people were allowed to express their religion, and their love (by allowing interracial and gay marriage), people should be allowed to express their gender in ways that does not directly impact others. Yes, people will claim their Freedom of Religion to say their rights are being impinged, but they are not actively being impeded; it's simply that the mere presence of someone whose choice they disagree with offends them, and there are no rights against being offended. And finally, people get so focused on freedom of speech and religion and the 2nd amendment that they often forget the Ninth Amendment: "The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people." Thank you.


Transgender bathroom

My daughter will NOT share a bathroom with boys, transgender or not. If they have a penis they do not belong with the girls who have a vagina!!! Build a separate bathroom! My girls have already been told if they need to use the restroom they are to hold it as long as they can and then they can call me and I will pick them up from school. I wouldn’t want them pulling their pants down in front of a boy they like, why would I want them peeing in a stall next to or changing their clothes in front of someone else with a penis?!? If they can’t accommodate with a separate bathroom I guess my kids will leave school early and it WILL BE excused because it’s MY RIGHT as a parent to protect my daughters and their innocence! My children will not be exposed in this manner.


Oppose

Although the draft document nominally speaks of respecting the rights of all students, the focus on affirming transgender students will lead to the harassment and bullying of religious students not only by other students but also by teachers and administrators.  It is easy to imagine a woke school official citing these guidelines as a justification for using school disciplinary procedures to force religious students to violate the teachings of their faith or to punish them for holding firm to those teachings (e.g., you will be suspended/expelled unless you show solidarity by using an open shower with everyone else). The lack of required evidence of transgender status is also concerning.  What does "consistent" mean?  For example, how would a school deal with a student who has never been anything other than a cisgender boy, but who is cut from a boys' team, then claims to be a girl, and asks to join a girls' team of the same sport?


Strongly oppose

I am strongly opposed to this


SUPPORT 100% PROTECT ALL CHILDREN

Protect children. All children. No matter their race, sexual orientation, height, size, family background or disabilities. We must do better moving forward. Make this your step forward by pledging to protect and guide the new generation to feel safe.


Strongly support

Trans rights are human rights, they should not be denied in schools. We cannot protect our children without including all our children: not excluding those who are trans.


Strongly Opposed to this nonsense

We are well beyond the point of needing to stop this ridiculous nonsense.  Why can't we simply let children act like normal children?  Gender is a biological reality not a choice.  I understand there is a small group of people who don't feel their biological gender matches up with their mental gender.  I understand and accept that is how they are.  I believe in treating all people equally.  However, I do not believe this group should be singled out for special treatment, good or bad.   And I certainly do not believe we need to completely re-shape the rest of society so we can pretend that this is normal.  It is not.  Having a teacher risk losing a job because they forget to call someone "they" is beyond the pale of stupidity.  What is next?  Do we fire people because someone is called "short", "fat", "ugly"?  ...how about "smart" or "pretty"?  There is no end to where this idiocy can go.  Wake up people before it is too late!


I think we should destroy all gender locker-rooms.

All locker rooms need to accomidate both girls and boys due to the fact that gender is a social construct.  Because there is no biological difference between boys and girls, it doesn't matter if transgender students can enter certain bathrooms.  We need to rewrite this bill to create one set of locker rooms.  A locker room for each grade.  This will break down any msygony, racism, homophobia, and transphobia.


Transgender

God created man in his image. He created male and female. There is no confusion! Bring back the 10 Commandments. It would then be settled in love.


Child Abuse,  promoting sex trafficking and perversion!!!

DISCUSSED in every part of this. I will be taking this to the senate to compose a bill that funds everyone this offends to pay for sending those children to Christian schools. God help America and all of us. And parent who agrees with this bill is a perverted, child predator. Its no wonder children have more mental issues now than ever. Poor kids don't even know how to be, what they were created to be, and how to respect their bodies.


Oppose this policy.

Feelings do not change biology.    We should have compassion on those with gender dysphoria.  We should not be confirming children in their confusion. This change in policy would seriously harm the religious and  privacy rights of children, their parents and school employees.   Parents have the primary responsibility to raise and train their children, not the state.


transgender policy

Very opposed to this policy that is trying to take place by not allowing male and female bathrooms. I believe it will be a safety issue for our children to where anyone is allowed to get to them by lying about why they want to use the restroom


Most strongly opposed to this measure

This measure is catering to a very small group of students whose concerns can be addressed in other ways. It forgoes the good of the rest of the student body by putting ridiculous requirements on them to pretend along with the transgender student that a boy who feels like a girl is a girl and vice versa.  I do not send my children to school to play pretend...I send them to get an education based in science. Why doesn't anyone care about the 99 percent of children who do not want to shower or use the bathroom with the opposite sex?  What about their right not to feel ill-at-ease in the bathroom? What about the vast majority of children who correctly believe there are only two sexes...why must a lie be foisted upon them? Why not stick to reading, writing and arithmetic in school and leave matters of sexuality to parents to navigate in their own child's best interest.  Finally, I resent the role of the parent being dismissed in the education of their own child.  Enough of this pandering nonsense.


I STRONGLY SUPPORT. Trans rights are human rights, and all children should be protected at school!

Public schools receiving federal funding should protect all children. There is no such thing as other people's children. We have a moral responsibility to make sure all our children are safe and cared for, and able to get a quality education without the worry of discrimination or bullying. I fully support this policy!


Oppose

As a parent and educator I strongly oppose this guidance. How can this even be implemented? This is a sensitive issue, that is unfamiliar to many and needs to be researched. It needs more thinking and consideration before implementing school wide policy. If anything this guidance should be for students who were born transgender and classified as such by a doctor.


Strongly Disagree

I very much strongly disagree with this bill. It is not up to the schools to provide sexual orientation guidance to young children! It is entirely up to the parents with guidance from their church and their leaders to guide them to a proper understanding of exactly who they are, from a sexual standpoint. The Bible teaches that there are only 2 sexes and they can't be changed on a whim or multiple times during their lifetimes.


Fully Support

I fully support addressing the needs of our transgender students.  All children should be treated with dignity and respect.


Trans Students Matter and Should Be Treated With Respect

Trans Students matter- legislation that protects them and supports them in an public/academic setting will overall help them as well as the rest of the student body. Anyone who disagrees in all honesty wishes to be just able to perpetuate a mindset that allows discrimination against those who are different from that one person's perception of what should be the acceptable norm. If we are to embody a nation who is said to be a melting pot, we have to accept this as truth, that the rights and needs of all persons, no matter how similar or diverse we may all be, even as minors- are to be acknowledged and protected. And that means accepting and protecting the rights of trans minors in our schools.


Highly Opposed- Please Reconsider ALL Students and Educators

As an educator, parent, and Christian, I am highly opposed to the proposed policies.  Have we truly taken a look at all students rights when writing these policies?  Have we considered the mental, emotional, and social consequences on all our students to be subjected to these policies?  Have we looked at the majority of what our students want and deserve? I am unsure why as professionals and adults (I will acknowledge not all on the panel are adults nor professionals, and DEFINITELY not eductors), you feel there are not some serious, long-lasting negative consequences associated with our students if these policies are put into place.  First and foremost, they do not represent ALL student bodies across the State of Virginia.  Nor do they fairly represent or consider the repercussions that will take place for ALL students.  I believe that we need to look outside of one particular group of students (or political agenda) and look at what will create the best possible learning environment for ALL students.  That is our goal, correct, as educators, and what the State of Virginia as called us to do as an educational entity? These learning environments need to be safe, caring, inviting, and accepting FOR ALL STUDENTS- not just a small percentage. On the other hand, have we considered that we are already facing a shortage of quality teachers in our great state?  Now, we want to hold teachers responsible to whims of a select few parents and students and policies that will seriously put us in jeopardy of violating our personal beliefs and livelihoods should we not bow down to the ridiculousness of uttering an incorrect pronoun.  Have we, as educators, been polled on our thoughts about these policies- since we are the ones in the trenches tolerating and enforcing them in the name of wanting to better the world and make a difference? Lastly, let's talk about personal beliefs.  At what point, do I as a Christian parent and educator have my rights protected as well?  I do not stand for anyone getting bullied, left out, feeling uncared for, abused, etc.  That is why I am an educator- so I can help create possibilities for our young students and help them change their lives.  But at what point, will someone not allow us Christian educators and parents to not be bullied?  When do we count?  In no way do I feel it is correct that one of my young female students be allowed in a bathroom with a male student.  Nor do I feel it is appropriate for a male student to be subjected to a female student's anatomy because this female (or her parent) deems that she may choose not to wear a top in certain activities. At what point, did we decide that ALL our students' physical and mental safety is not a priority?  Have we considered all the possibilities (and statistics) of sexual assault? The repercussions of the angry parents when a student complains or shares a negative experience?  Have we not, as schools, experienced enough violence (and negative headlines) for this possibility to be considered as a very real threat as a result? Men and women of the panel and VDOE, I applaud you attempting to protect our students, but I urge you to cast your net wider in representing the great State of Virginia and the school divisions and populations within.  I also urge you to truly think like parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc... in what you would desire for your family each and every day when you entrust them to a public educational setting. Put aside any political agendas or what money and pressure is taunting you to decide and truly look at the safety and welfare and what is right for the majority of our students and educators. Thank you!


STRONGLY SUPPORT!!! PROTECT TRANS YOUTH!!!

As an adult with experience as both an educator and a registered nurse, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to support trans youth. They are in a marginalized group with a history of being disproportionately bullied and victims of violence. I’m ashamed to have seen it occurring in schools and and in healthcare. The notion that the cisgendered students would be experiencing violence or negatively impacted by this in anyway is shocking to me. I’m proud to say that some of the people I love most are trans and if there was any way I could have lessened the burden of their childhood experiences, I would have leapt at the opportunity. They are without question, the most tender, compassionate and understanding humans I’ve known. I have no doubt much of this is attributed to the struggles of being trans in a world that is often not accepting of something outside of the  binary.  I only wish anyone reading this comment could really experience what wonderful humans they are. With inclusivity taught in the home, we can help to mitigate the violence and hate crimes. Even before that, protections like these in school are essential for human rights.


Oppose bullying & loss of women's rights

Child safety is paramount. We must continue to work to keep bullying out of all schools. But this model policy reflects flawed policies. Sex differences exist in DNA, though it is unpopular to follow the science in this field. Trying to eliminate gender-based activities is also wrong-headed. (E.g., Father-daughter events such as Take Your Daughter to Work Day, have helped women broaden their career goals.) Trans and cisgendered kids should both be respected.


Strongly Support

Protect trans kids.


No

Absolutely not, allowing guys in the girls bathroom allowing females to compete topless in swim meets and dress in the men's wrestling outfits is absolutely against the bible it is non Christian, is allowing the devil into our schools, I am completely against this petition.


Strongly oppose!

I strongly oppose this policy. Do not take away the rights of our biological boys and biological girls to have safe and private restrooms and changing rooms without the fear of opposite biological sexed people in their safe spaces. Do not take away the rights of biological girls to fair competition in sports. These actions are not the place or role of public education.


Strongly Oppose New Transgender Guidelines

This new guidance destroys the safety of young children in so many ways.


Protect our children!

1.I know having my gender identity respected has opened new doors and transformed my life for the better. 2. It's much easier to improve one's life when the weight of dysphoria doesn't hang so heavily on sa person, which extends naturally to education. 3. Accepting trans people strengthenes the protections of everyone because everyone will have more freedom to be themselves without fear. In reviewing research of how transgender people's health is affected by such policy, it may be useful to review evidence. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1446458/


Strongly oppose VDOE proposed transgender policy

The policy as it is written would be detrimental to the safety of our educators.  If a child changes his mind mid-day then the educator is required to keep up.  This is insanity! I’m a former teacher and school counselor, if I were still working and this policy were passed I would resign immediately.


Strongly Support

The policies go a long way in ensuring schools remain a safe environment for all people. It is hard enough to be a young kid growing up in a social media age, regardless of any characteristics that make people treat you as "other." The policies allow for transgender students to feel that their "other"ness is acceptable, while protecting their rights to limit the risk of any unintended consequences. To not pass this document would send the wrong message to the entire community, including both transgender students and those that would wish to alienate/exclude them.


STRONGLY APPOSED!

STRONGLY APPOSED!


Strongly opposed!

This policy is highly unethical. My children should not and will not be forced to share restroom/locker room spaces with people of another gender. The fact that this is being forced on those who don't agree with it is absurd!!!


Strongly Support

Thank you for allowing this critical policy to come forward for public comment.   I strongly support this policy because equity matters, because people are people, and because it is not the governments job to enforce the morality of a select few but to support equality for all.   Further, unlike others sharing their issues with this policy my personal faith -Christianity- compelled me to support justice and to love.


Strongly Strongly Oppose

"Regardless of the circumstances, the school should support the student’s need for privacy and not disclose a student’s gender identity to other students or parents." No parent has given up their parental rights to make decisions about a child's education, emotional, mental & physical health care, and religion. VA's public schools, officials, or teachers should not infringe this right.


strongly support!

the fact is that trans rights are human rights. if you see how vehemently some people are opposing this you can get an idea of how badly trans people are treated. everyone deserves to be able to receive equitable treatment in school. fear of persecution and attack shouldn’t be in the back of children’s minds as they try to get through the day. there needs to be spaces in school for them to feel safe. all students should have the opportunity to feel safe in schools.


Seriously?????

Let me begin by saying that I did not have children and work hard to raise them in a Christian home for them to go to school and be allowed to question, or let alone change their identity. God created us Male or female for a reason, this is not up for vote or discussion. Allowing the opposite gender in bathrooms and locker rooms is an invasion of privacy and downright disturbing. Especially for teenagers. I could not be more opposed to this issue and wish more people thought the same.


Trans Students Matter!

We are in a new era in 2021. One in which outdated ideas and gender roles should be forgotten. I support the inclusion of transgender inclusive policies in our public schools. Let’s let’s do better than our parents did in accepting and protecting all students!


STRONGLY APPOSED!!!

STRONGLY APPOSED!!!