Sex Education in Our Public School System

Sex Education in Our Public School System

Jaqueline Adigun

Capella University

ENG 1000

Dr. Helen Doss

May 7th 2011

Abstract

This paper is an attempt to bring to light the benefits of how having sex education in the school system could benefit our youth. School systems in the Western hemisphere have from the time I was in grade school made certain classes mandatory for students, physical education being one of those mandated by the school administration. Participation in this class was mandatory for every student hoping to graduate high school. Though it is no longer a mandatory subject after the 6th grade it is still a requirement for students up until that point and one has to get a passing grade or will have to repeat the subject. My point here is that if this is such an important topic which is added to the curriculum of our children why would sex education be viewed as anything but equal in the development of our youth and teens?

The purpose of this paper is to get a clear unbiased view point on how we can educate our children about the safe practices that can be utilized if one is to indulge in sexual activities. It is also an attempt to show the importance of giving information to youth to enable them to make well informed decisions. In doing so we have lived up to the expectations our children and society has placed upon us as care givers and educators.

Knowledge is Key

If my daughter came home and told me she was pregnant at the age of 14 I would feel as if somewhere along the line I had failed her. Why should a parent, any parent feel that they had not provided the basics to keep their child safe? If we promote sex education in the home and in our school systems our children will be much better equipped to make decisions that will not deter their futures. Isn’t this the job of parents and those we entrust the care of our children to? This is why I believe that not only should we prepare our children in the home but the...