Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Education
 
Board
State Board of Education
 
Guidance Document Change: 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.
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2/3/21  5:43 pm
Commenter: Amy K Shepherd

YES to safe, supportive, and non-discriminatory schools
 

This bill is critically important to protect the equal rights of some of our most vulnerable youth.  The message sent by the state, the legislature, school boards, school administration, and teachers is what will be received by all students.  That should be a message of support for student development, choice, safety, and a non-discriminatory learning environment and community.  

There is real harm to transgender students from negative messages we send, and no evidence of harm for inclusive and supportive policies.  Do the right thing and pass this bill.

 

Amy Shepherd

Arlington, VA (mom to 3 public school students)

CommentID: 96013