[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95021
Title: Strongly Support As A Transgender Virginian
Body:
I am in strong support of these efforts to provide protections for and guidance in supporting transgender/non-binary and gender non-conforming students. I myself was a student in the commonwealth and faced discrimination and bullying, not merely from my peers, but more pointedly, from teachers and staff. I was at times isolated and ostracized by the people charged with my education and well being. My humanity was, it seemed, conditional. All the great variance of expression and perspective that could have been gained, the great growth of empathy that could have transpired, an understanding that normal is very different throughout not only time and place, but also in experience and individual and culture, was extinguished; the very antithesis of learning. Conformity, not compassion, was taught. I did not feel safe at my school. I did not feel safe in my home. I did not feel safe in my community, as these lessons had also been taught to them. I hope for a Virginia that is safe for all children, and I hope for hope to live on in the hearts of every student in the commonwealth. Each and every young mind should be able to see for themselves a future filled with truth and kindness and possibility. It can be nearly impossible, and sometimes is, to take another step, another breath, when that door to tomorrow appears closed to you simply because of who you are. The wealth of every human life in its many faceted brilliance enriches us all. Let us protect these shining children as the precious beings that they are.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95022
Title: This could help save lives.
Body:
As an adult in my early 20's who came out at 16, this bill would have been life changing. As I lived in a liberal area in michigan during the time I was growing, I still had a lot of support from my school but not nearly enough. I'm honestly not worried about trans students sexually assaulting or harassing cis students. But all the contrary. After coming out I was sexually harrased and assaulted several times a day for months, one of the many reasons causing me to drop out after my senior year. This bill is just the beginning to decreasing the horrible suicide rates of trans individuals.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95023
Title: Strongly Oppose! Vote NO on transgender policy changes!
Body:
Please vote NO on the proposed transgender policy changes for Loudoun County Public Schools. The changes attempt to interpret the law, which is not under the authority of school policy makers, and they undermine the rights of parents, teachers, and school administrators. Further, and most importantly, these changes harm our children. Vote NO!

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95024
Title: Support transgender people
Body:
Transgendered people are no different from us and gender is a social construct

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95025
Title: I do not support
Body:
I do not support

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95026
Title: OPPOSED!
Body:
I am totally opposed to this insanity! All of you who proposed this load ought to be fired immediately! This is criminal. These are children! Children!! Their brains are not fully developed and yet you and your ilk want to force this liberal insanity on them and society. You are supposed to be the Department of EDUCATION, not INDOCTRINATION! Least you forget, there are six biological sex karyotypes that do not result in death to the fetus...PERIOD. They are: X – Female - Turner’s Syndrome (infertile) XX – Female XXY – Male - Klinefelter's Syndrome (infertile) XY – Male XYY – Male - Jacob's Syndrome XXXY – Male (infertile) Conversely, there are three phenotypes: 1. Male 2. Female 3. Other (i.e., biological anomalies) Everything else is made up liberal B.S.! Men (and boys) who think they are women (or girls), and women (and girls) who think they are men (or boys) are mentally ill and need treatment, as opposed to social integration. You should not be about foisting this tripe on our children, families, and communities. Shame on ALL of you! FOLLOW THE SCIENCE!

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95027
Title: Support the rights of Transgender Youth
Body:
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!

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95028
Title: I support this measure
Body:
Trans children need the support and validation that every other child gets.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95029
Title: I support the guidance.
Body:
I support the guidance.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95030
Title: Transgender changes
Body:
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??

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95031
Title: Gender science is still in flux
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95032
Title: No!!!! This is sooooo wrong!
Body:
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 !!

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95033
Title: Absolutely NO!!!
Body:
This shouldn’t even be a topic! Absolutely No!

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95034
Title: Oppose
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95035
Title: The title is completely misleading! If you ONLY read the TITLE, do NOT support this!
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95036
Title: Strongly Support
Body:
I am in support of Transgender rights and any policies made that benefit their well being and quality of life.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95037
Title: I completely support.
Body:
I fully support this and think it is a necessary legislation for every school to have.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 95038
Title: Protect Transgender Rights
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90904
Title: Transgender students
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90905
Title: Strongly Opposed.
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90906
Title: Looks like Orwell's 1984 is here
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90907
Title: Strongly Oppose VDOE proposed policy re Transgender Issues
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90908
Title: This will hurt all students
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90909
Title: In full support - ALL students deserve to be safe!
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90910
Title: Specific Comments on Document Content
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90911
Title: Thank you for supporting child health
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.


[System]
You are an expert policy analyst classifying public comments submitted to the Virginia Town Hall
regulatory comment system. You will be given the text of a proposed regulation and a single
public comment. Return ONLY a JSON object — no other text.

Definitions:
- stance: the commenter's position on whether the regulation should be adopted.
  "support" = wants it approved (as-is or with changes);
  "oppose"  = wants it rejected or substantially weakened;
  "neutral" = takes no position, asks a question, or provides factual input only;
  "unknown" = too vague, off-topic, or uninterpretable to classify.
- tone: the emotional register of the writing, independent of stance.
  "positive" = affirming, hopeful, appreciative;
  "negative" = angry, fearful, alarmed, or contemptuous;
  "neutral"  = matter-of-fact, procedural, or informational;
  "mixed"    = contains both positive and negative emotional content;
  "unclear"  = tone cannot be determined (e.g., a one-word comment).
- stance_confidence: float 0.0-1.0, your confidence in the stance label.
- stance_rationale: 1-3 sentences explaining the key evidence; quote specific phrases where possible.
- tags: up to 5 short topic labels relevant to the comment's specific concerns (e.g.
  "parental rights", "student safety", "privacy", "religious freedom", "LGBTQ+ inclusion",
  "bullying prevention", "school sports", "bathroom access"). Empty array if none apply.

Return exactly these keys: stance, stance_confidence, stance_rationale, tone, tags.

[User]
## Proposed Regulation
Title: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools
Description: The Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools guidance document was developed in response to House Bill 145 and Senate Bill 161, enacted by the 2020 Virginia General Assembly, which directed the Virginia Department of Education to develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools. These guidelines address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to: compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws; maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students; prevention of and response to bullying and harassment; maintenance of student records; identification of students;  protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information; enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and student participation in sex-specific school activities, events, and use of school facilities.

---

## Public Comment
Comment ID: 90912
Title: I oppose your plan for transgender students.  I applaud your efforts to help these students but this
Body:
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.

---
Classify this comment per the instructions. Return only JSON.