The VA Beach School Board finally voted last night to adopt the 2023 Model Policies even though they initially rejected them just two months ago. The lawsuit that was filed against the school board by VA Beach parents certainly influenced this outcome! The Attorney General's opinion, advocacy from the public, the former Superintendent resigning, and the national media attention putting VA Beach in the spotlight on this topic were all factors that pushed more board members to finally vote in favor of the Model Policies.
Now in Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS), employees cannot keep gender identity secrets from parents, boys and girls must use bathrooms and locker rooms based upon their sex, and boys will not be able to compete in girls' sports! Further, students and personnel will not be compelled to address or refer to students in any manner that would violate their constitutionally protected rights (no compelled speech).
Hopefully other divisions across the state who have not yet adopted the 2023 Model Policies will follow the lead of VBCPS.
A big THANK YOU to everyone who advocated to make this happen! Thanks for sending emails and for speaking at meetings. Thank you for your financial support of SFVA (an all-volunteer organization) so that we can continue to help influence the important decisions being made in schools!
