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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1/5/21  2:02 pm
Commenter: George

PUBLIC SCHOOL_ Students do not run the school. PERIOD
 

Remove this statement.  Using over exaggerated language and overstated words to misconstrue context.  Public School and PE uniforms are already neutral.  DOE Federal and State guidelines on proper dress code exist.  Without citing every team uniform, band uniform, activity uniform..etc Policy should remain the same. High-level, related to ALL students and staff.  We (staff and parents) are teaching children proper dress for many different situations.    This policy is out of context, poorly written and should not be considered or re-written with clear and concise language for less ambiguity. 

 

The requirements for schools to maintain gender-neutral dress code standards will cause disruptions and distractions, permitting boys to wear skirts and girls to go topless in activities where boys can – such as swimming activities or teams.

“Students have a right to dress in a manner consistent with their gender identity or gender expression. Schools shall administer and enforce dress and grooming codes consistently across the student body, regardless of actual or perceived gender identity or gender expression.  Requirements for attire for school-related programs, activities, and events shall be gender-neutral.” (Draft Policy, p.16)

CommentID: 88338