Committee needs more time to study sex education curriculum for Spokane schools

The committee that reviews changes to how Spokane Public School conducts middle-school sex education met Thursday but said it needs more time to review proposed curriculum.

The Human Growth and Development Citizen Advisory Committee had been scheduled to vote March 7 to send the proposed curriculum for staff review and adoption by the school board. However, the committee voted to delay its vote until April 11.

Last year, the committee voted 9-3 to update the district’s sex education program, but district staff pulled it from the board agenda just two days before a June 28 meeting where the school board was expected to vote on the changes.

The halt came after concerns were raised about the Get Real curriculum, which was partially designed by Planned Parenthood. The committee originally chose a different program, but some district staff later pushed Get Real instead, school board member Deana Brower said.

The changes to the curriculum, for grades four through nine, are being made after the state released a new set of screening criteria for sex education curricula.

After the board meets April 11, the recommendation will be reviewed by staff before going to the school board for approval, district spokesman Kevin Morrison said.

The public can review the proposed curriculum by visiting the district office, 200 N. Bernard St.