- Rhode Island state law mandates the teaching of sexuality education, though it is not required to be comprehensive.
- All sex ed curricula must stress abstinence.
- All sex ed curricula must include instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity.
- All sex ed curricula must include instruction on consent.
- All sex ed curricula must include discussion of the varying types of dating violence.
- Parents must be notified of sex ed classes and may view the curriculum by submitting a written request. Students may be removed from instruction by written notification from the parent to the principal. This is referred to as an “opt-out” policy.
- Rules and Regulations for School Health Programs, Comprehensive Health Instructional Outcomes, and the Health Literacy for All: The Rhode Island Health Education Framework provide guidance for curricula development.
Some Sex Ed Advocates Within the State
For more detailed information on how various districts in the state have been implementing these standards — and for recent legislation — you can read SIECUS’s Rhode Island profile.