5th Grade Introduction to Adolescence

The Opt Out Deadline extended to Wednesday, May 3, 2023.  Please see full details below.

Dear 5th Grade Parent/Caregiver:: 

This letter is to inform you of our upcoming Introduction to Adolescence unit in 5th Grade. This unit will run for approximately a month during the May-June time frame.  The 5th Grade Introduction to Adolescence unit covers respect for human diversity, the social, emotional and physical changes of puberty, anatomy and reproduction. The overall goal of the unit is to promote the health and well-being of our students as they grow and develop. Part of this unit is encouraging communication and continued dialogue between you and your student about feelings and values, as well as the changes they are experiencing. Your participation as an active listener will support your student through their transition into adolescence.

The instructional materials we use for the course include Brookline-designed curriculum in addition to the books and videos listed on the included unit overview resources document. If you would like to review these materials at the school, you are welcome to do so. If you want to review the materials in more detail, please email your student’s classroom teacher to arrange a convenient time.  

We understand that families may have strong personal beliefs about some of the topics discussed. Materials will be presented in a factual manner that stresses the importance of privacy and respect for others. 

During the unit, students will be able to ask questions which will be answered factually and in an age-appropriate manner. Lessons are developmentally appropriate and mapped to the National Health Education Standards.  Parents/Caregivers are essential partners in this unit, and there will be optional activities to give you the opportunity to continue these conversations at home.

Under Massachusetts law and School Committee policy, you may exempt your student from any portion of the Introduction to Adolescence curriculum. To receive an exemption, fill out this Google Form https://forms.gle/G9MmW9ugK3Qc2ypv8. The exemption deadline has been extended.  Exemptions should be received by Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.  No student who is exempted from this portion of the curriculum will be penalized. 

There was an informational webinar outlining the curriculum via Zoom on April 26, 2023.  This informational webinar was recorded and the link emailed to parents and guardians.

If you have any questions about the Introduction to Adolescence unit, please contact your classroom teacher or if you would like to review the materials in more detail, please email your student’s classroom teacher to arrange a convenient time.