The singling out of the North Carolina educator, which has already prompted one Republican lawmaker to suggest a state law requiring “gender-appropriate” clothing for school employees, has led to the Wake County School Board being flooded with inquiries about the hiring of a transgender teacher.

But the greatest concern appears to be coming from outside the school district. The News & Observer, a Raleigh newspaper, reported that a recent Wake County School Board meeting drew more supporters of the teacher than critics.

“This teacher is perfectly qualified and a lovely person. There is no reason why their ability to do their job should be in question,” said Stephen Stacks, parent of a Middle Creek Elementary student and a local pastor.

Some school board members pushed back on calls for the district to discriminate against school professionals based on their gender identity. “People online and in this room are willing to sacrifice this person’s love for their job for their culture war,” said Board member Jennifer Job.

A state law requiring “gender-appropriate” clothing, what the actual fuck? We’re going to force women into dresses and men into pants? Absolutely ridiculous.

It’s heartwarming to see the school and some parents standing up and supporting this teacher.