Sexuality Education Assessment of Colorado Schools

BACKGROUND: Little information exists on the content and delivery of sexuality and HIV prevention education in Colorado schools and less information on whether this education is science-based and medically accurate. This assessment aims to gain an understanding of the scope of this education and how a relatively new state law is implemented. METHODS: Methods included an online survey with staff from schools, school districts, and clinicians (n = 141); 12 telephone key informant interviews; and a review of 30 online school district sexuality and HIV/AIDS education policies. RESULTS: Overall, most school district participants reported delivering sexuality and HIV prevention education, yet felt education to be insufficient or incomplete. The school instruction was felt by most to be medically accurate, science-based, age-appropriate, and culturally-sensitive. However, in some cases, information on condoms and contraception use was not included. Likewise, participants were aware that written district policies are in place; yet there is little understanding of the definitions used within the policies or the state law. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Critical inconsistencies were found in sexuality and HIV prevention education provided by Colorado schools, and thus the state law implementation. These inconsistencies could have a major impact on adolescent pregnancy and HIV preventive efforts.