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WYOMING


Wyoming Sexuality Education Law and Policy


Wyoming does not require sexuality, HIV/AIDS, or sexually transmitted disease (STD)- prevention education, nor does it limit what can be taught if such education is offered. However, the Wyoming Health Content and Performance Standards does include sexuality education and the HIV/AIDS Model Policy for Wyoming Public Schools sets some standards for HIV/AIDS-prevention education. The Wyoming Department of Education created both of these documents. These standards state that, “the goals of HIV prevention education are to promote healthful living and discourage the behaviors that put people at risk of acquiring HIV. The educational program will:


  • Be taught at every level, kindergarten through grade twelve;
  • Use methods demonstrated by sound research to be effective;
  • Be consistent with community standards;
  • Follow content guidelines prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC);
  • Be appropriate to students' developmental levels, behaviors, and cultural backgrounds;
  • Build knowledge and skills from year to year;
  • Stress the benefits of abstinence from sexual activity, alcohol, and other drug use;
  • Include accurate information on reducing risk of HIV infection;
  • Address students' own concerns;
  • Include means for evaluation;
  • Be an integral part of a coordinated school health program;
  • Be taught by well-prepared instructors with adequate support; and
  • Involve parents, families, and communities as partners in education.”

The state does not recommend a specific curriculum. The HIV/AIDS Model Policy for Wyoming Public Schools states that parents or guardians can ask that their children not receive HIV/AIDS prevention education. This is referred to as an “opt-out” policy.


See the Wyoming Content and Performance Standards and HIV/AIDS Model Policy for Wyoming Public Schools.