February 25, 2015 9:24 PM Share with others: <\/p>\n
By Eleanor Chute \/ Pittsburgh Post-Gazette <\/p>\n
A proposal to set up a memo of understanding with Planned Parenthood for sex education of middle school students won approval tonight from the board of Pittsburgh Public Schools. <\/p>\n
The 6-1 vote came after board member Mark Brentley Sr. raised opposition, criticizing the history of Planned Parenthood, questioning what its role would be in the schools and saying it would put students at risk. Only Mr. Brentley voted in opposition. Members Terry Kennedy and Sherry Hazuda were absent. <\/p>\n
Board president Thomas Sumpter said that history included eugenics, but he said board members needed to consider whether it was offering a good program for students today. <\/p>\n
Dara Ware Allen, assistant superintendent for student support services, said she has reviewed all 24 modules -- 12 for grade 7 and 12 for grade 8 -- and said they addressed helping students to identify risky behavior, setting personal boundaries and practicing skills to avoid risky behavior. <\/p>\n
She said that abortion is not part of the curriculum, that the curriculum emphasizes abstinence and that it is in keeping with the district's program. Parents can opt their children out of the program, which would be taught alongside the classroom teacher. <\/p>\n
Ms. Allen said Planned Parenthood is seeking a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the program. It is expected the organization will know whether it got the grant in July. <\/p>\n
Mr. Brentley said other providers, including those at local universities with medical backgrounds, should have been considered. <\/p>\n
Ms. Allen said UPMC is a \"significant partner\" and said there is a partnership with UPMC Shadyside for a teen pregnancy prevention program for high school students. <\/p>\n
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Pittsburgh schools board approves Planned Parenthood role for sex education<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" February 25, 2015 9:24 PM Share with others: By Eleanor Chute \/ Pittsburgh Post-Gazette A proposal to set up a memo of understanding with Planned Parenthood for sex education of middle school students won approval tonight from the board of Pittsburgh Public Schools. The 6-1 vote came after board member Mark Brentley Sr Continue reading