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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I respond to students' questions I am not authorized to answer?
Although it is rare, some school boards and administrations outline specific content that can and cannot be addressed in health classes. Some of this content may come up during lessons and class discussion pertaining to STDs. When this situation arises, teachers must respond honestly, stating that, while these questions are important, they will not be covered in class. Educators have the option of providing their students with resources and information about where they can find more information.
How do I respond to parents' concerns regarding the information their children receive in my classes?
When parents express concern to their child's educator regarding curricular content, it is important to acknowledge the validity of their concerns and praise their involvement in their child's education. In an effort to most effectively answer their questions, give parents as much information as possible. Show parents the curriculum, the specific content to be covered, and any lesson plans that have been prepared. Parents have the option of removing their children from classes but rarely feel the need to do so after having discussed the content of the class curriculum. If parents are still concerned after speaking with you and would like to further discuss the issue, direct them to the appropriate administrator; in most cases, this is the school's vice principal.
What if I don't know the answers to the questions my students have about STDs?
It's OK to tell your students that you don't know the answers to their questions. It is important to know where you and your students can find information, however. In response to such a question, validate the importance of the question or concern and admit that you do not know the answer. The process of finding the answer can then become an activity that you assign to your students as homework or extra credit, or you may simply want to find the information yourself and get back to your students as soon as possible. Be honest with your students rather than try to answer a question you don't know the answer to.
How can I help my students make good decisions in regard to their sexual health?
The best way to help your students make good decisions about their sexual health is to provide them with as much information as possible. Maintaining sexual health is a continual process, not a one-time act. Your students need to know that they can choose to stay healthy by not having sex. If they decide they are not ready to have sex, it is important for them to remind themselves why they have made that decision and to think of ways to stick to their decision even when it's difficult. They should also know that the decision to become sexually active is one that requires the maturity and responsibility to take care of their health and the health of their partners. By talking about protection with sex partners and using condoms each and every time they have sex, they are taking some necessary steps to maintain their sexual health.
Where can I find innovative activities and lesson plan ideas on presenting sexuality education in an engaging fashion?
A variety of sites provide full lesson plans for educators. The following few sites are an excellent starting point for new teachers:
http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/lessonplans
http://www.eduref.org/cgi-bin/lessons.cgi/Health/Human_Sexuality
http://www.avert.org/educate.htm
http://www.safehealthyschools.org/
Where can I find information about STDs that can be applied to students at a variety of grade levels?
It is important that students receive age-appropriate information pertaining to STDs and issues of sexual health. However, it is also important to remember that children mature differently. And while one eighth grader may be ready for a lesson in condom usage, another may not even be interested in dating. Providing comprehensive information in a non-threatening manner is integral to effective education. This way, students have the information they need and can use it on an as-needed basis. To ensure age appropriateness, review different lesson plans. (Many are available on the Internet.)
Where can I direct students interested in getting more information on STDs or STD testing?
Students interested in finding more information about STDs and sexual health in general can utilize a variety of resources. In addition to information that can be retrieved from healthcare providers, clinics, hospitals, and library searches, a plethora of information is available on the World Wide Web. For specific URL addresses, visit the Links for Students page on this Website.
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