- Pennsylvania state law does not mandate the teaching of sexuality education, though instruction on STDs is required.
- All sex ed curricula must stress abstinence.
- Sex ed curricula are not required to include instruction on sexual orientation, gender identity, or consent.
- School districts must publicize the fact that parents and guardians can review all curriculum materials. Parents and guardians whose principles or religious beliefs conflict with instruction may excuse their children from sex ed. This is referred to as an “opt-out” policy.
- Guidelines for STD and HIV prevention instruction are included in the Academic Standards for Health, Safety, and Physical Education.
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 Pennsylvania profile.