Arizona: Condoms Could Be Part of Kyrene Sex Education Program

Kyrene School District officials are encouraging parents and community members to review the district's current sex education curriculum and proposed revisions that include discussions of contraception for seventh- and eighth-graders.

Research shows increased rates of sexual activity and STDs among middle school students, said Carrie Furedy, Kyrene's program administrator for instructional services and a member of the district health steering committee. This has prompted the committee to consider incorporating lessons that address pregnancy and STD prevention in addition to abstinence, she said.

"For the age group we are teaching, the message should be that abstinence is best," said Furedy. "However, the committee also feels that teens should have information regarding prevention. The health cost of not providing this information is significant."

Currently, Catholic Charities Community Services of Arizona presents the eighth-grade sex education curriculum. However, should the board approve the condom lesson for next year, a group or an individual other than CCCSA would take that lesson. Under the proposal, students can opt out of the one-time, 30-minute lesson or out of the curriculum entirely, said Furedy. The instruction would not include a demonstration, but would encourage students to recognize the option of barrier methods if they choose to engage in sex.

Feedback on the proposed changes will be accepted through April 24. The governing board is expected to vote on the revision April 28.

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