Should schools in Louisiana be requited to offer sex education? That's a debate that has been going on for some time.
A survey released by the Louisiana Public Health Institute finds 80% of parents believe it should be a requirement. LPHI managing director Kristie Bardell says sex-ed could lead to healthier lives.
“School-based sex education would be a tremendous opportunity in Louisiana to help lower the risk of teen pregnancy, delay sexual activity, and increase contraception use,” said Bardell.
Bardell says school-based sex education provides young people with facts on topics they will likely encounter and reinforces conversations families may already be having at home.
“Such as contraception, healthy relationships, decision-making, and human development,” said Bardell.
Louisiana’s legislature has not been willing to pass legislation requiring sex ed in public schools. Bardell says they plan to present this survey to legislators next spring when lawmakers convene for a regular session.
“It is really showing that regardless of political affiliation and religious affiliation there is a constant support for sex education,” said Bardell.