• Is contraception or contraceptive use taught in the classroom?

    Recent and accurate information regarding medical risks and effectiveness on contraception shall be presented in an age/developmentally appropriate manner. At the elementary level, contraception will be discussed only in response to direct student questions, using age appropriate definitions and explanations. At the middle school level, contraception will be presented in a brief factual manner in the context of fertilization and the reproductive cycle. Contraception information will be presented at the high school level as students are taught that marriage and parenthood are choices which involve decision-making skills including commitment and social, emotional, and physical and economic responsibilities.

    Abstinence from sexual intercourse will be taught as an accepted, preferred, and the safest means of contraception. Sections 1507 of Public Act 1977 states that, "a person shall not dispense or otherwise distribute in a public school a family planning drug or device." Contraception devices will be presented by the instructors in the classroom during the discussion on contraception devices. Instruction will focus on what the device is, what it looks like, how it works, and what it can and cannot do. "Clinical abortion shall not be considered a method of family planning, nor shall abortion be taught as a method of reproductive health," per subsection 1507(8) of Public Act 226 of 1977.

    What is taught about homosexuality?

    If a question arises in class, discussion should be limited to the definition, legal and psychological aspects, their implications for the individual and society. The importance of developing tolerance and understanding for persons with this value should be explained. The instructor will remain neutral about sexual preferences.

    Students will be advised that teasing or harassing a student about homosexuality or using slurs about sexuality can create a hostile or offensive educational environment and may be considered sexual harassment (click here for Sexual Harassment Policy).

    What is taught about sexual orientation and gender identity?

    As a district enhanced by diversity, Okemos Public Schools is dedicated to an ongoing process of creating and sustaining an inclusive and safe culture for students, families and staff. Our goal in Okemos is to create a culturally inclusive and responsive school environment where students, staff and community recognize, embrace, celebrate, appreciate and value the diverse attributes and identities of each other. To meet the goal, students in grades 4 through high school receive age-appropriate instruction about gender stereotypes, sexual orientation, gender identity, bullying, and sexual harassment.

    Is information provided about sexual crimes?

    Discussion about crimes such as child abuse, rape, prostitution, and use of children in pornographic materials will focus on the definition, legal and psychological aspects, and their implications for the individual and society. Students are taught to recognize these situations, avoidance strategies, and where to go for help. Laws about statutory rape and other types of criminal sexual conduct are discussed in middle and high school as required by law.

    Lessons on personal safety and child abuse from the Michigan Model Health Curriculum are used from Kindergarten through 8th grade.

    What if a sex education topic comes up during teaching time outside of the sexual health curriculum?

    According to the Okemos Board of Education regulations, questions from students within school settings in situations other than in a Sexual Health Education class shall be referred to parents/guardians or to approved and qualified instructors or counselors.