This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the required instruction in health education within public, private, parochial, and denominational schools. It mandates that health education courses include comprehensive education on human growth and development, specifically focusing on pregnancy and fetal development. The instruction will utilize various methods, including oral, written, or digital presentations, and will incorporate specific materials such as a high-definition ultrasound video and a video detailing the stages of human development inside the womb. Additionally, the bill stipulates that this instruction should occur in grades five, eight, and during health education classes for grades six through twelve.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the state board of education in prescribing the curriculum and assessment standards for these courses. It emphasizes the importance of parental involvement by allowing parents or guardians to review the curriculum and opt-out their children from certain instruction if desired. The bill also retains existing requirements for teaching about sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse, and CPR, while introducing new standards for human growth and development education. Overall, the bill aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of human biology and development in the state's educational framework.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-9