Parents influence sex ed curriculum
M.J. Editorial Board
Issue date: 10/19/04 Section: Perspectives
Under a new law passed in Michigan, every school district that teaches sex education must have a sex education advisory board.
The board must consist of parents with children attending the district's schools, students in the district's schools, educators, local clergy and community health professionals. At least half of those participating must be parents who have children who are attending schools within the district.
Two chairs will be appointed for the board and at least one of the chairs must be an aforementioned parent.
The content of the curriculum must include abstinence and the following: saying no to sexual advances, that sexual harassment and exploitation are wrong, that students have the power to control their own behavior and teach others about self-control and respect, and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, including the use of condoms.
The curriculum cannot include dispensing contraceptives, abortion as an alternative and information that is in violation of state laws dealing with sexuality, such as indecent exposure and criminal sexual conduct.
The boards must teach abstinence but teaching contraception is their choice.
Editor's note: The MJ Editorial Board was evenly divided on this issue and chose to present both sides.
The board must consist of parents with children attending the district's schools, students in the district's schools, educators, local clergy and community health professionals. At least half of those participating must be parents who have children who are attending schools within the district.
Two chairs will be appointed for the board and at least one of the chairs must be an aforementioned parent.
The content of the curriculum must include abstinence and the following: saying no to sexual advances, that sexual harassment and exploitation are wrong, that students have the power to control their own behavior and teach others about self-control and respect, and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, including the use of condoms.
The curriculum cannot include dispensing contraceptives, abortion as an alternative and information that is in violation of state laws dealing with sexuality, such as indecent exposure and criminal sexual conduct.
The boards must teach abstinence but teaching contraception is their choice.
Editor's note: The MJ Editorial Board was evenly divided on this issue and chose to present both sides.