Our original focus was to have a program for PARENTS. I'm very concerned in getting involved in the sex ed process for our students. But our teachers that teach "health" are aware of this and maybe that's the best way to address the issues with the teens. The last thing we need is to upset parents and the school board.
I agree (michelle b). I used "teen promiscuity" for lack of a better phrase for this post.
I definitely think that a health professional is the way to go. But first, think that working with the school district is a MUST.
I hope that I am understanding the question, you are talking about a class for parents not the kids right?
You wouldn't have any problems with it and the district would only be contacted if you were wanting to do a presentation for the teens. For a parental presentation, I would double check with the school if you want to do it on school grounds but unless you are wanting to address this class to teenagers, and you want to do it on school grounds, you would contact your school district to see what guidelines you would have to follow. Some states even have laws that you may have to consider for example, Mississippi laws state that abstinence only may be taught in schools.
If you are wanting this class to be taught to teens, after consulting with the district, I would then provide a preview night for parents and show them what would be presented. Then you would need permission slips. Some parents do not want anyone but themselves to teach their children about sex (which isn't always the best option since some parents won't ever talk to their children about it, or teach abstinence only when their 14 year old child is already, unknowingly, sexually active...)
I would also reevaluate the name of the class from Teen Promiscuity to something more broad, whether it be for parents or teens. If a parent has a child that is sexually active but doesn't know it and also thinks they won't be until they're older/married/adults etc, they may not attend because they would think "I don't need this" when in fact they do.
Our state has one of the largest teen pregnancy rates in the nation and it's a huge problem here. Also Mississippi, (which remember teaches abstinence only?) has the nation's largest teen pregnancy rates in the country! (We used to be first but they have since surpassed us)
You have to step lightly when developing this for teens but for adults, there are far less restrictions and obstacles to overcome. It is most definitely worth it though. Since NV has started to teach sex ed more thoroughly through SHARE programs and high school classes, our rates for STDs and teen pregnancy have dropped.
I've taught the abstinence class for teen girls at church. It's scary. You have to walk a fine line of teaching them something useful while not upsetting the parents or offending anyone.
If you have a health care professional help, you can usually find a way to give useful information in a way that goes in. The parents will get offended if you get up and say "this is what your kids are doing." Offended people don't learn.
Just a couple of suggestions, I would reevaluate the title of the discussion away from Teen Promiscuity to a more PC name. Secondly, even though you are addressing parents, I would contact your district for any input. We have had some hysterical people objecting to state, local approved sex ed. type stuff that you can opt your kids out of at the school board meetings. Some things that seem so productive and important can raise odd objections, so I would try to head off any negatives so you can accomplish your goals. Good luck!
Thanks for your replies. The PTA article was very good. I really like the idea about contacting a local hospital. I'm also going to reach out to our school nurse who's also aware of this alarming trend.
An administrator from the local hospital would be a good person to speak because he/she would have real numbers for your area on teen pregnancy and STD rates.
