District sticks to pro-abstinence approach on sex education

The Millard school district in Omaha is sticking by its pro-abstinence approach on sex education.

The school board Monday night unanimously approved instructional materials for health, which includes sex education for grades 5, 6 and 8 and for high school students. Some parents had urged the board to adopt a comprehensive policy on sex education such as the one employed by Omaha Public Schools.

That district's approach encourages abstinence but also teaches about contraception, abortion, gender identity and sexual orientation.

Board member Amanda McGill Johnson says she would have preferred materials on gender identity and sexual orientation had been included in the Millard approach.

The Millard district classes will discuss contraception, pregnancy and disease, with an emphasis on abstinence.