Comprehensive Sexual Health Education in SJUSD

 

Last week, the California Department of Education issued a new voluntary Health Education Framework; there are no plans for SJUSD to use this guidance document.

A comparison of the California Healthy Youth Act and the Health Curriculum Framework is provided by the CDE (CHYA and Health Curriculum Framework Comparison)

According to SJUSD Board Policy 6142.1, comprehensive sexual health education shall be offered to all students in grades 7 - 12.  Instruction must encourage students to communicate with parents, guardians or other trusted adults about human sexuality. Instruction must be medically accurate, age‐appropriate and inclusive of all students.

The California Healthy Youth Act is intended to ensure that students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to:

  1. protect their sexual and reproductive health from HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancy;
  2. develop healthy attitudes concerning adolescent growth and development, body image, gender, sexual orientation, relationships, marriage, and family;
  3. have healthy, positive, and safe relationships and behaviors.

San Jacinto Unified partners with The Riverside University Health System - Public Health, Family Planning Program to provide health education to seventh grade and ninth grade classes. Parents will be sent notification prior to lessons being started in the classroom. State law and district policy allows parents to opt their student out of this instruction. If parents do not want their student to participate in comprehensive sexual health or HIV prevention education, he/she will be able to submit a written request to their student’s teacher.

Parents that do not wish their child to participate in the California Healthy Youth Act curriculum may complete the opt-out form and return it to their child's school.

To make an appointment to view the material used in instruction, email Angela Wolf, Ed Services Coordinator ([email protected]) or call (951) 929-7700 x4224, to make an appointment.