Schools; modifying the Health Education Act; modifying topics to be included in health education; providing for review and approval of curricula and materials. Effective date. Emergency.
If enacted, SB702 would significantly modify existing educational requirements for health education within the state. It mandates that school districts adopt and implement curricula that have been approved by the State Board of Education, ensuring statewide consistency and accountability. Each school district will have to work in partnership with certain local mental health providers to develop protocols preventing student harms. This change is intended to create a more structured environment for health education while also focusing directly on the mental wellbeing of students, which is a growing concern.
Senate Bill 702 aims to amend the Health Education Act in Oklahoma by updating statutory references and revising the objectives of health education curricula in public schools. Key changes include ensuring the inclusion of various health topics, like mental health and nutrition, while purposefully excluding sex education and gender theory. The bill emphasizes the importance of physical health education, particularly focusing on early age instruction that fosters lifelong healthy habits among students. Additionally, it addresses the mental health needs of students by outlining specific protocols for schools to follow during mental health crises.
There are notable points of contention surrounding the exclusion of sex education and gender theory from the health curriculum, which critics argue may limit comprehensive education on critical health issues. Additionally, the requirement for school boards to submit annual reports regarding their adherence to the new health education guidelines adds a layer of accountability that some may view as bureaucratic. The bill also establishes formal complaint processes for parents to report violations to the State Board of Education, increasing oversight of district compliance, which could provoke discussions regarding parental rights and local control.