2. Take Action

What should concerned parents do?

• Call and meet with your district Superintendent and school board members immediately.  A directory of Superintendents can be found at the following link: http://www.superintendents.ms/directory_superintendents.php

• Urge them to adopt an “abstinence-only” sexual risk avoidance (SRA) program in the school.

• Remind them that “abstinence only” is not a “just say no” approach, but provides students all the information they need to make the healthiest decisions for their sexual health.

• Remember, with “abstinence plus” policies, the door is left open for “other components” to be added that could compromise the health of your child.

What should concerned citizens do?

•  Contact your local school principal or district Superintendent and ask them to provide “abstinence-only” sex education to students.  A directory of Superintendents can be found at the following link: http://www.superintendents.ms/directory_superintendents.php

• Remember that “abstinence only” is not a “just say no” approach, but provides students all the information they need to make the healthiest decisions for their sexual health.

• Communicate your desire to see the students of your community receive the information that gives them the best opportunity for health and life success.

What should concerned superintendents and school board members do?

The implementation of the HB 999 sex education mandate requires school districts to choose either an “abstinence-only” or “abstinence-plus” program by June 30^th 2012. In order for districts to make accurate and informed decisions about which approach is best for their students, they must know the facts. The best health alternative for the students you serve should lead to the following:

•  Adopt an “abstinence-only” sexual risk avoidance (SRA) program in the school.

• Remember that “abstinence only” is not a “just say no” approach, but provides students all the information they need to make the healthiest decisions for their sexual health.

• Don’t be misled by groups that provide inaccurate, negative information about abstinence “only” education.