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  11:59 am
Commenter: concerned parent and educator

Vote no! Extremely concerned about this proposed legislation.
 

I have fully read the proposed bill.  While I believe that we should demonstrate compassion and value to all students, I do not believe this is the way. Singling out one group of students is never helpful and often overlooks the welfare of all students. The plan for overnight school trips is a bad idea - one that would be detrimental to many of the students involved.  I also have concerns for teachers who will be required to respond in ways that may be against their rights and beliefs. My greatest concerns relate to parental rights.  

I have no problem with designating private bathrooms for all student use, with the intent of helping transgender students.  I do however strongly oppose this bill in it's entirety.

 

CommentID: 95278