CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Hundreds packed the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school board meeting Tuesday night with dozens of them voicing their opinions about changes to the system's multiculturalism policy

There were passionate pleas from dozens of people debating changes to the CMS multiculturalism policy. The revised version would add gender identity and sexual orientation to a list characteristics that should be considering when promoting diversity in lessons, classroom instruction and staff training .

Transgender students say this policy will make them feel safe at school

But some parents and members of the community disagree with the policy change. They believe it should be up to parents to decide if and when they discuss sensitive topics like sexual orientation -- not the school system.

The new version of the policy also requires CMS to “intentionally incorporate” diversity.

At large member Elyse Dashew, who voted for the change, says this policy isn't just for students but for staff.

The policy change will take effect immediately.