Sex education in Broward schools could face major changes this coming school year, with a focus on abstinence or possibly no program at all. The Florida Department of Education has yet to approve Broward’s sex ed proposal, first submitted in September and revised twice. The delay appears linked to contraception education, as the state favors abstinence-focused curricula over teaching about birth control methods.
District spokesperson John Sullivan said, “Our staff is working hard to get approval while honoring the community’s expectations.”
Emails accessed by the South Florida Sun Sentinel reveal Broward officials repeatedly sought updates, but the state has provided no written responses on the approval process. Comprehensive sex ed once included LGBTQ topics and contraception, but recent laws have limited instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity. Board member Allen Zeman opposes an abstinence-only program, calling it unrealistic and harmful to students’ health and decision-making.
Advocates warn that restricted sex ed could lead to increased teen pregnancies and lifelong health consequences for Florida’s youth. LGBTQ and Health activists also warn of the dire effects this decisionmaking will have on STI and HIV exposures.
