Pennsylvania: Parents Urge City Schools to OK Sex Education

At a school board meeting on Monday, more than 20 people spoke in support of Pittsburgh Public Schools shifting from abstinence-only sex education to a comprehensive curriculum that addresses topics such as STD and pregnancy prevention, abstinence, and homosexuality. District officials proposed the policy change on Feb. 3; the board is expected to vote on the issue next Tuesday.

While contraceptives will be discussed under the new policy, the district has said it has no plans to distribute them or demonstrate their use. Parent Henry Schmitt, a supporter of comprehensive sex education, noted that parents would be able to opt their children out of the curriculum. "No one will be forced to have their children exposed to ideas they may disagree with," he told meeting attendees.

"This policy will lead to a substantial change in the knowledge and health of our students," said Terri Klein, a Squirrel Hill resident who last year circulated a petition calling for a comprehensive curriculum. Nearly 720 residents signed that plea.

However, Brookline parent Renee Lau said she worries the curriculum will be too explicit, given that parents already must contend with sexualized media messages. "This is a matter that should be kept in the hands and guidance of our parents," she said.

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