As an educator who has worked in Harrisonburg, Fredericksburg, and Charlottesville, I support this guidance. Studies have shown that affirming policies like the K-12 guidance reduce the risk of bullying, peer violence, harassment, suicidal thinking*. Transgender students deserve to feel supported and affirmed in educational spaces. They are then better equipped to learn, engage with peers, and positively contribute back into their communities.
This guidance will help schools to provide the best learning environment possible for creating a truly equal Commonwealth.
*Source: Russell S.T., Pollitt A.M., Li G., & Grossman A.H. (2018). Chosen name use is linked to reduced depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, and suicidal behavior among transgender youth. Journal of Adolescent Health, 63(4), 503–505.