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School Board proclaims Transgender Day of Visibility; students and parents share personal testimony
Summary
The Fairfax County School Board unanimously approved a Transgender Day of Visibility proclamation. During public comment dozens of students, parents and advocates described the impact of FCPS policies and urged continued protection and support for transgender students.
The Fairfax County School Board unanimously proclaimed March 31, 2025, Transgender Day of Visibility for Fairfax County Public Schools and urged the community to promote equity and support for transgender students year‑round.
The board read and adopted the proclamation recognizing the value of supporting transgender students and staff and affirming the school division’s role in creating an inclusive environment. Mr. Frisch called for the vote and the motion carried by unanimous voice vote of members present.
Why it matters: Many students and families testified during the public‑comment period that affirmation and school support have been life‑saving and critical to students’ academic success. Several speakers described personal experience of how school recognition and supportive teachers aided mental health and post‑secondary success.
Public testimony: A transgender FCPS student told the board the system’s protections allow them to “survive” and “live, enjoy life, breathe.” Student speakers emphasized that “trans identities aren’t taught in school, but trans kids exist anyway,” and asked the board to continue affirming and protecting transgender students. Family members and FCPS club leaders offered both personal anecdotes and a success story: one parent said their formerly non‑affirmed child thrived in FCPS and graduated with honors after receiving school support.
Board action and context
- Motion and vote: The board adopted the Transgender Day of Visibility proclamation by unanimous vote of members present. The proclamation notes national trends related to anti‑trans legislation and cites medical associations endorsing supportive school environments.
- Public comment: Dozens of speakers used the public‑comment period to support the proclamation and to recount how FCPS policies and teacher support affect student well‑being and academic outcomes. Speakers included current students, parents, representatives of the Transgender Education Association and local GSA leaders.
Quotes
- “Due to the protections in the school system for kids like me, I am able to survive,” said Kaz Kyere, a student who identified themself as transgender.
- “When his teachers started using his name, everything changed for him,” said Chris McCormick, describing his older son’s school experience and subsequent academic success after receiving support at school.
What the board did not do: The proclamation affirms support and calls for inclusive practice; it is not a change in regulation or code and does not itself create new requirements beyond existing district policies and state law.
Provenance: Topic begins with the proclamation reading and includes the public‑comment sequence supporting the proclamation.
