Liberal Virginia School Boards Refuse to Acknowledge Parents’ Rights, Plan to Defy Gov. Youngkin

Last Friday, as Madeline highlighted, Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) updated Virginia’s policies on transgender students and pronouns, emphasizing parental involvement. This was a significant change from the previous administration of Gov. Ralph Northam, a Democrat.

Despite such an update, it appears that the main culprits, Alexandria City Public Schools and Fairfax County Public Schools, don’t show an intention of complying. As Madeline also covered, Fairfax County, the largest school district in Virginia, was training teachers to transition students without parental consent, which certainly earned the ire of Youngkin.

Townhall has obtained a letter about the guidelines from Fairfax County from Sunday, mentioning the guidelines, but going through great lengths to avoid mentioning “parents,” instead referring to “families.”

The letter in part reads:

On Friday evening, we became aware of a new proposed model policy from the Virginia Department of Education regarding the privacy, dignity, and respect for all students, staff, and families in Virginia’s public schools. The newly proposed model policy is scheduled for a 30-day public comment period starting September 26.

I understand the concerns that our LGBTQIA+ staff, student, and family community have about what this change of direction by the state may mean for our school division. Please be assured that FCPS remains committed to an inclusive learning environment for each and every student and staff member and that our schools will continue to be safe and respectful learning spaces.

Here at Fairfax County Public Schools, we are dedicated to providing a caring climate and culture where each and every student, staff member, and family is welcomed, respected, valued, and supported, as they experience a deep sense of belonging.

It then goes on to list their “core beliefs and mission,” which in part touts how “Everyone thrives in a vibrant, healthful, safe, enriching, and respectful environment” and “Our diversity is a strength that creates resilient, open, and innovative global citizens.”

In conclusion, the letter emphasizes “we remain committed to maintaining equitable opportunities and access for each of our students, staff, and families in a justice-centered, future-focused, and student-driven school environment.”

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