Student Leaders with the Central Texas GSA Coalition to Host Press Conference in Support of Inclusive Sexual Health Education in Austin Independent School District
Contact
Elle Smith
howdy@ctxgsas.org
650.521.4789
Austin, Texas (October 23, 2019)—The Central Texas GSA Coalition, a student-led organization that fosters community and compiles resources for LGBTQ+ teens, will publicly endorse inclusive sexual health education curriculum for Austin Independent School District (AISD) students at a press conference immediately preceding the School Board meeting on Monday, October 28th.
The AISD School Board is set to vote on curriculum to match the scope and sequence for inclusive sexual health education that was passed unanimously this February. There is overwhelming support from students, parents, and other community members for a curriculum that is comprehensive, medically accurate, and LGBTQ-inclusive. The Central Texas GSA Coalition, the Texas GSA Network, and Informed Parents of Austin are encouraging Austin-area students and the people who care about them to attend the upcoming school board meeting in a show of solidarity and support for this curriculum.
Immediately preceding the October 28th meeting, at 6 p.m., Central Texas GSA Coalition student representatives will gather in the courtyard of the AISD Carruth Administration Center (1111 West 6th Street, Austin, TX) for a press conference to address the importance of inclusive schools, including curriculum. We encourage other students to bring their voices to this and future district decisions that impact their daily lives.
Inclusive and comprehensive sexual health education has widespread support from students, parents, community members, and AISD school board members. However, there is vocal opposition from conservative groups, which is why it is imperative that we hear from supporters, and from students especially, that inclusive sexual health education is not only valuable, but incredibly necessary.
The Central Texas GSA Coalition is an organization that is focused on the importance of student voice. Far too often, adults unilaterally make decisions for students, even though they have little perspective on what youth want and need. By focusing on student leadership in the Coalition’s regular activities and in this upcoming vote, the people who are affected by these policies are able to gain a voice in crafting their futures.
Learn more about the Central Texas GSA Coalition at https://www.ctxgsas.org