Dear John, 

Did you know Texas is one of only five states with an opt-in policy for sexual health and abuse education? Unless parents give written approval, students cannot learn about sexual health, family violence, dating violence, or sex trafficking in a school setting. 

Our recent research and analysis of Texas’ Opt-in Policy* found: 

• The majority of school representatives saw the policy as a barrier to students’ receipt of sexual health education.

• The policy is viewed by many as an additional burden put on educators and administrators.

• The opt-in policy may widen socioeconomic and health disparities for students who speak English as a Second Language (ESL), are low-income, or have absentee parents.

Gratefully,

Evelyn Delgado
President and CEO

P.S. Over these past weeks, we’ve shared information about our comprehensive approach to sexual health education, collaboration, advocacy, awareness, and research/data. This week’s “lesson” wraps up our summer session, but we’re always available to answer questions you may have about our work.

*Opt-in Policy evaluation work was led by The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health (UTHealth Houston) and Healthy Futures of Texas. Learn more here.