Story perspectives

Virginia School Board Revises Pronoun Policy Amid Legal Challenges

1/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Chesapeake School Board in Virginia voted 7-2 on December 15 to amend its policy prohibiting employees from compelling others to use pronouns that differ from their biological sex.
The policy would be managed case-by-case with parental involvement.
Board chair Angela Swygert said the issue is complex and should be handled by families.
Legal actions have emerged nationwide against similar policies, with settlements for teachers who refused to use pronouns.

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Story summary

Chesapeake School Board in Virginia voted 7-2 on December 15 to amend its policy prohibiting employees from compelling others to use pronouns that differ from their biological sex.
The policy would be managed case-by-case with parental involvement.
Board chair Angela Swygert said the issue is complex and should be handled by families.
Legal actions have emerged nationwide against similar policies, with settlements for teachers who refused to use pronouns.