Sexual Health Education Program

Dear Parent(s) or Guardian(s):

Per the CDC, research has shown that school health programs can reduce the prevalence of health risk behaviors among young people and have a positive effect on academic performance. Schools play a critical role in promoting the health and safety of young people and helping them establish lifelong healthy behaviors. The CDC also notes it is easier and more effective to develop healthy behaviors during childhood than trying to change unhealthy behaviors during adulthood. Preventable health risk behaviors are often established during childhood or adolescence and continue into adulthood, contributing to the leading causes of death, disability, and social problems including HIV infection, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and unintended pregnancy from unprotected sex.

At Crossett Brook Middle School, we offer a comprehensive health education program that emphasizes abstinence as the only reliable way of preventing infection and pregnancy. However, many students choose to engage in sexual activity. Results from the Washington West 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Survey indicate that 22% of 9th graders, 26% of 10th graders, 42% of 11th graders, and 65% of 12th graders reported having had sexual intercourse. Teaching sexual health remains a priority in our health curriculum and incorporates lessons related to consent, healthy relationships, and safe sex practices.

Research indicates that properly used latex condoms provide some protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Harwood Union allows trained faculty members to make condoms available to high school students who request them. Condoms will be available to grades 7 and 8 students in the Health Office, if students ask for them and relay their understanding of proper use, unless you, in your role as parent or guardian, withdraw your permission by submitting a Condom Availability Program Opt Out Form:

These forms are also available as a hard copy and may be printed and faxed or mailed to the CBMS Health Office.

Please note that all conversations with regard to condom access are completely confidential and professional. Our intent is to inform, educate, and provide access to safer sex for those who wish to engage in consensual activity. Please note that CBMS assumes no liability by making condoms available.

Please call the Health Office, if you do not have access to a computer/printer, would like a hard copy of the Opt Out form sent to you, and/ or you would like more information about Crossett Brook's health education or condom availability program.

Sincerely,

Jen Durren and Duane Pierson

Co-Principals CBMS