As a teacher, you want the best for your students. Subjects like math, science, English and history are important for their future and are a part of the core curriculum in Florida public schools. There is an important - even life-saving - subject that is not a requirement for students in Florida. Comprehensive sex education is not compulsory in Florida public schools and there are currently no statewide standards for teaching sex education. A recent University of Florida study identified the following inadequacies in sex education in Florida:
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Sex education is rarely afforded an effective amount of time.
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It occurs too late in students’ academic careers (usually in 9th or 10th grade).
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There is little uniformity or standards (in terms of training or quality assurance).
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Sex education is not accessible to all students (especially Latinos).
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It fails to adequately address students’ needs.
We know that parents and education leaders across Florida agree on the need for comprehensive sex education that gives teens the information, skills, and encouragement that leads to responsible decision-making. Florida schools that allow abstinence-only programs to deny teens the facts, censor teachers, and exclude parents’ input from their own children’s education are just catering to a narrow minority.
Teachers across the state know what is best for their students - and that is information about abstinence AND about protection from diseases and pregnancy:
"This is a topic that needs to be taught to all students. Unfortunately our state does not agree.” - Teacher, Pinellas District
“I believe the State of Florida is wrong to teach abstinence-only and I believe Sarasota County is wrong to follow this decree. I feel our training as teachers is harmed by this policy. I believe this is detrimental to the health of our population.” - Teacher, Sarasota District
“I feel it is extremely important to teach sex education in the classroom. I am amazed by how many students are so misinformed about sexuality.” - Teacher, Okaloosa District
Advocating for comprehensive sex education in schools is just one of the ways that you can give your students their best chance at success. Take action to show your support for comprehensive sex education! [1]