Published: October 11, 2009 08:55 pm      

Elkhart ISD planning abstinence program

Elkhart Independent School District will begin teaching sexual health to all students enrolled in 8th and 9th grade.  School administrators have chosen an abstinence curriculum, Scott & White Worth the Wait®. 

It is a 10-session curriculum for 8th graders and an eight-session curriculum for 9th graders. It is based on the medical and legal facts regarding teen sexual activity which teaches abstinence as the healthiest choice for teens. This program takes a conservative approach to sex education. 

Living Alternatives Pregnancy Help Center, a nonprofit organization in our community, will be teaching the material. They will conduct a parent meeting concerning this curriculum at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Elkhart ISD Cafeteria. Please attend this meeting to find out more and ask questions. 

Students in the 9th grade will participate in the program beginning Oct. 19. Students in the 8th grade will participate in the program after the high school students complete their lesson cycle. EISD anticipates the 8th grade sessions to start Nov. 17.

If you do not wish your child to participate in the Worth the Wait® curriculum, please contact your campus counselor. She has “opt out” forms available (these are coming home with students as well).  If you have any questions about this program, contact Dr. Debbie Taylor, Special Programs Director, at 903-764-8565.