Parents call for changes in Shen sex ed program

Posted at: 01/10/2012 11:51 PM | Updated at: 01/11/2012 10:28 AM
By: Jessica Layton

CLIFTON PARK - The year 2012 starts with a renewed firestorm over an old controversy -- sex education -- at Shenendehowa schools. 

The district pulled Planned Parenthood experts from its health curriculum after 20 years.

But the group of parents that wanted Planned Parenthood out is now asking the district to go a step further by implementing Sexual Risk Avoidance Education. This type of program, advocates say, would include state-mandated information on AIDS, sexually transmitted infections and contraception, while encouraging abstinence. 

Meanwhile, other parents who want Planned Parenthood back in their childrens' classrooms are telling the Shen Parents Choice Coalition to get with the times.

Mohawk Hudson Planned Parenthood President & CEO Paul Drisgula says parents have every right to opt out of sexual education on behalf of their kids.

"What I don't believe they have the right to do is deny the rest of the parents and students in the  school district access to medically accurate, age-appropriate, comprehensive sex ed," said Drisgula.

School Superintendent Dr. Oliver Robinson said he'll reconvene the health advisory committee before making any new decisions on the  future of Planned Parenthood and overall sex ed curriculum at the school.

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