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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1/13/21  8:35 pm
Commenter: Michele Pugh

Support for transgender student policy document
 

I would like to express my strong support for the proposed guidance document, "Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia's Public Schools." The policies outlined in this document would promote an inclusive and respectful environment for transgender students in Virginia's public schools. In fact, several of the policy revisions, such as equitable dress codes and personal information protection, would benefit all students. Virginia's transgender students have a right to an education experience free from harassment and bullying, the same as cisgender students. The policies outlined in this guidance document not only ensure that the rights of transgender students are protected - they also promote a positive, inclusive learning environment. Thank you to the VDOE and the committee for your time developing a well researched and thoughtful policy document.

CommentID: 89931