- Massachusetts state law does not mandate the teaching of sex ed.
- All sex ed curricula must explain the benefits of abstinence.
- Sex ed curricula are not required to include instruction on sexual orientation, gender identity, or consent.
- Parents and guardians can exempt their children from any portion of sex ed instruction through written notification to the school principal. This is referred to as an “opt-out” policy.
- If a community decides to implement sex education, General Law of Massachusetts, Chapter 71 §§38O requires that standards be developed with the guidance of community stakeholders, including parents and at least one physician.
Some Sex Ed Advocates Within the State
- Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts
- Holyoke Adolescent Sexual Health and Pregnancy Prevention Task Force Accountability Committee
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 Massachusetts profile.