Abstinence Education

Sexuality and Abstinence Education

Parents are the primary educators of their children. Some parents may not feel comfortable broaching the topics with their children, may not have the factual knowledge to share with their children, or may not know how to talk to their children in a developmentally appropriate manner. Who else can teach the children? The vast majority of children attend public school, and schools are a logical place to provide sexuality education. Programming may be taught by teachers, health educators, nurses, doctors, or other credentialed professionals. No matter who is teaching the children, it is important for the school to verify the accuracy of the curriculum, evaluate the credentials of the provider, and be sure the curriculum meets with school district policies.

Sexuality education guidelines are typically established at the state level and carried out at the local level. Almost every state mandates sexuality education, and some mandate abstinence education. Districts and communities may choose from a range of [Page 2]programs, from comprehensive sexuality education programs—which may cover birth control, a range of sexual behaviors, gender identity, life skills, and anatomy and physiology—to abstinence-only-until-marriage programs, which only discuss sexual activity within the context of marriage. School districts typically create policies delineating what type of sexuality education will be taught in what grades and what topics will be covered. Most school districts allow students, with parental permission, to opt out of sexuality education.

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