FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION

The New Jersey Administrative Code 6:29-7.1 requires that all students be provided with instruction in Family Life Education, which is defined as "instruction to develop an understanding of physical, mental, emotional, social, economic, and psychological aspects of interpersonal relationships; the physiological, psychological and cultural foundations of human development, sexuality, and reproduction, at various stages of growth; the opportunity for pupils to acquire knowledge which will support the development of responsible personal behavior, strengthen their own family life now, and aid in establishing strong family life for themselves in the future, thereby contributing to the enrichment of the community." Parts of this definition can be applied to many courses of study, including Homemaking, but especially Biology (e.g., the human reproductive system and sexually-transmitted diseases) and the "Human Growth and Development" units in ninth and twelfth grade health (e.g., love, marriage, divorce, and other life styles; dating and courtship; and conception, birth control, pregnancy, and childbirth). A more detailed outline of the course content, as well as copies of the textbooks, is available for inspection in the Principal's office in each high school. The administrative Code allows any parent or guardian to withdraw a child from "any part of the instruction in family life education in conflict with his/her conscience or sincerely held moral or religious beliefs." A student who is so excused will receive alternative assignments. The course grade will not be affected by missed work. In order to exercise this option, the parent or guardian must present to the school Principal a signed statement requesting that the student be excused from family life instruction. This note must be received by the Principal prior to the first day of classes in September.