It's not a mix of abstinence and then teaching how to use contraception. We focus on STDs, we focus on the emotional factor of early sexual activity and the psychological effects. We feel they've been getting the contraception message for years and they haven't been given the abstinence message in a real way. Sandburg Middle School in Elmhurst uses Project Reality materials in a four-week sex ed unit for 8th graders. Guidance counselors teach the unit, focusing on emotional aspects of teen sex.
Students learn about anatomy, reproduction and STDs in health and science classes.
Edward Poole said the approach in middle schools should be more prevention than cure. The unit includes a discussion guide to be sent home and used with parents. One activity is to have children and their parents watch a TV situation comedy and discuss all of the sexual references. We present materials, but values should be imposed by parents. Sandburg's program pushes parents to talk about sex at home, something many health educators wish more parents would do.