I saw this article today. The main issue of abstinence-only programs versus comprehensive isn’t all that surprising (as it’s a debate that has been ongoing since in-school sex ed began). Rather, I found this part more interesting:
In Wisconsin, children under age 17 who have sex with each other can be prosecuted as juveniles. Seventeen-year-olds who have sex with one another can be convicted as adults of a misdemeanor.
Seriously? Two minors having sex with each other is illegal? Does that seem a little extreme to anyone else? And then of course there was this idiot:
Audrey Jensen, whose 16-year-old daughter, Justina, is a sophomore at Mauston High School, said Southworth is trying to censor what students learn, usurping the role of parents. Children will have sex regardless, she said, and they need all the information they can get.
“I think he’s actually a little unrealistic,” said Jensen, 47. “Obviously he doesn’t remember being a teenager.”
Okay, Ms/Mrs Jensen – why don’t you teach your own child? Or are you one of those parents who advocates removing TV shows that offend rather than turning off the TV yourself? How about setting some rules in your own house? And quite frankly, lady, if your daughter hasn’t been taught this stuff before now (16) – either from you or school - I will guarandamntee you she has learned it somewhere else.
Your argument doesn’t hold water, Jensen.
Anyway, when a person decides to have sex is up to them. If you’re talking about your own child, wouldn’t you rather they know how to protect themselves when the time comes? And if the school they attend doesn’t teach them how to use contraceptives/STD protectives, teach them yourself. Isn’t saving your child’s life worth a little of your personal discomfort? Just grab that banana and grab that condom and SHOW THEM! Unless you want to raise your own grandchild while your daughter goes to college (and a baby is the best case scenario). Think about it.
