MERRILL, Wis. (WSAU) - Merrill's school board has approved a series of changes to the sex education curriculum that were forwarded by the school's human growth and development committee.
The move makes the school compliant with new state guidelines requiring comprehensive sex education. According to Special Education director Dr. John Sample, an increased focus on Abstinence will be stressed to students as well as the inclusion of methods of birth control and different STDs.
The district will also be allowing outside speakers with board approval. Sample says while they will screen their speakers for what they want to talk about, it can still be a benefit. “Bringing in a medical expert when talking about a medical topic is a benefit, so we try to bring in experts when we can.” The board will go over the policy for that screening at a later date.
The school administration will be sending a complete outline of the program to students along with an opt out form before the classes start. Tonight's vote passed the board six to two.
