has dignity and self worth. Individuals express their sexuality in varied ways. In a pluralistic society like the United States, people should respect and accept the diversity of values and beliefs about sexuality that exist in a community. Sexual relationships should never be coercive or exploitative. All children should be loved and cared for. All sexual decisions have effects or consequences. All persons have the right and the obligation to make responsible sexual choices. Individuals and society benefit when children are able to discuss sexuality with their parents and/or other trusted adults. Young people explore their sexuality as a natural process of achieving sexual maturity. Premature involvement in sexual behaviors poses risks. Abstaining from sexual intercourse is the most effective method of preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Young people who are involved in sexual relationships need access to information about health care services. [Guidelines for Comprehensive Sexuality Education, National Guidelines Task Force,SIECUS, 1991.]Why should schools be involved in sexuality education?While more families are talking openly about sexuality, most parents still avoid the issue -- orunintentionally hand down harmful myths and fear. Keeping children ignorant endangers theirlives -- especially for the millions of teens who have already begun having sex -- 61% ofmale high school students and 48% of female high school students. (CDC, U.S. Dept. ofHealth and Human Services, SEXUAL BEHAVIOR AMONG HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS -UNITED STATES, 1990. MMWR 1992; 40; 885-888.)Schools can give young people the facts and the relationship skills they need to becomeresponsible adults, and can break the cycle of ignorance, denial, and shame that often passesfrom one generation to the next.Most parents say they want their children to receive sexuality education in scho...
