Most Parents Choose to Have Kids Stay in Class for Sex Education

HB 363 would allow Utah schools to skip sex education entirely, and it would prohibit classroom discussions of contraception in those districts that do offer the subject. Supporters say the topic is best left to parents. Opponents, however, point out that very few parents prevent their children from taking part in the current classes, which stress abstinence but include information on STDs and the effectiveness of various contraceptive methods. [PNU editor’s note: HB 363 passed the Legislature and is currently being considered by Gov. Gary Herbert.]

“We have very few parents who opt out, because they want their kids to hear this information,” said Liz Zentner, president-elect of the Utah Parent-Teacher Association. “They don’t feel like they know all the details about STDs, how they’re spread and how to prevent them.”

Data from all but two of Granite School District’s 23 secondary schools showed 0.5 percent of middle schoolers and 0.2 percent of high schoolers who were enrolled in health classes last year opted out of sex education. The Alpine School District, the state’s largest, did not have an opt-out rate available, but spokesperson Rhonda Bromley said “the majority” of parents give permission.

“Parent choice is alive and well within the current policy,” said John Robison, health program supervisor at Davis School District. “We’re not promoting anything other than abstinence. ... Factual information that needs to be given is given.” If students ask a question that requires an answer beyond what is allowed by law, teachers direct them to discuss it with their parents, he said.

A recent report found Utah teen mothers ages 15-17 were more likely than their peers in other states to believe myths and misinformation about pregnancy.

The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.

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