The Highline Public Schools board of directors is authorized by law to determine whether sexual health education instruction will be offered in the district. The board has determined that such a program will be offered to students, consistent with state law.
Health, family life, sex education and human sexuality, including information about parts of the body, the study of the anatomy and the physiology of human reproduction, characteristics or qualities that distinguish between maleness and femaleness, parenting and caring for infants and young children, may be included in the instructional program as appropriate to the grade level and course of study. Curriculum materials shall promote a respect for values and beliefs held by individuals from different cultures. Interested parents and community groups shall be encouraged to become involved in the planning, development, evaluation, and revision of any instruction in sex education and human sexuality offered as a part of the school program.
Parents may ask to review the materials to be used and may, in writing, request that their child be excluded from sex education and human sexuality classes. The superintendent or designee shall distribute forms to parents who wish to exercise this right. It is recognized that values held by families of different cultures may result in requests to participate in our program to varying degrees. Students who are excused shall be provided alternative educational opportunities.
Sexual health education instruction offered by the district shall be medically accurate, age appropriate, appropriate for and respectful of students regardless of gender, race, disability status, or sexual orientation and include information about abstinence and other methods of preventing un-intended pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Abstinence may not be taught to the exclusion of other instruction on contraceptives and disease prevention. The district’s sexual health curriculum shall be consistent with 2005 guidelines for Sexual Health Information and Disease Prevention.
Cross Reference:
Curriculum Development and Adoption of Instructional Materials - Policy 2020
HIV/AIDS Prevention Education - Policy 2126
Legal References:
Medically Accurate Sexual Health Education — Curricula — Participation excused — Parental review - RCW 28A.300.475
Reporting of harassment, intimidation, or bullying-- Retaliation prohibited — Immunity - RCW 28A.600.480(2)
Sexual health education — Definition — Optional course or subject matter — Excusal of students - WAC 392-410-140
Management Resources:
Healthy Youth Act - Policy News, February 2009
Sex Education Curriculum and Instruction - Policy News, August 2007
Highline School District 401
Adopted by the Board: March 2008
Revised by the Board: 08.09
Classification: Priority