Family Life Education

November 30, 1998

Fairfax County Council Of PTA’s Position: 
We support state mandated Family Life Education (FLE) as an "OPT-OUT" program.

Background: 
A typical teen today must be prepared to make responsible decisions about such issues as drug and alcohol use, sexual activity, and the diseases that can result from irresponsible behavior. Since the Family Life Education program was introduced in Virginia in 1988, the state has experienced a steady decline in teen pregnancies. Teen pregnancies in Northern Virginia dropped 11% between 1990-1995; in Fairfax County, the decrease was 24% for the same period. (Source: Center of Health Statistics in Richmond)

Discussion: 
We respect the parents’ decision to exclude their child from the Family Life Curriculum and agree that the first teacher is the child's parent. However, not all parents are willing or able to teach their children the knowledge they need to make responsible choices. In Fairfax County, only about 2% of the student population was opted out of FLE. This education is especially critical for the at-risk student population who may not have sufficient parental support and guidance. 

Recommendation: 
The General Assembly should continue to support a mandated Family Life Education curriculum as an "OPT-OUT" program.

Last Updated 01/27/2005 20:22:30