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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1/12/21  7:43 pm
Commenter: August Branch

STRONGLY SUPPORT
 

This decision is not a matter of political opinion, or of religious persecution. By supporting we are protecting everyone’s right to basic human decency is this nation. Wether you agree or not, by providing these resources you will help those more at risk for suicide, homelessness, and mental illness (youth of the LGBTQIA* community). This is how we are doing our part to protect our youth. We need exposure for our youth now, not only for members of the community but for allies, and those on the fence. To show that we are nothing to be ashamed of, nothing to fear, nothing out of the ordinary. But most importantly: to show our youth that CHANGE IS POSSIBLE. We are here for them. They are heard and valid and loved. If not at home, then at school. We can make their time away from home a little easier. We are creating an atmosphere for diversity and acceptance, and that trumps personal comfort levels of individuals any day of the week. Our children have to go to school- let’s make it a time that they can enjoy, feel welcomed in, and remember for being a nurturing environment. 

CommentID: 89748