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NEW MEXICO


New Mexico Sexuality Education Law and Policy


New Mexico does not mandate that schools teach sexuality education; however, it does mandate that schools “provide instruction about AIDS and related issues in the curriculum of the required Comprehensive Health Education Program.” This instruction must include “ways to reduce the risk of getting AIDS, stressing abstinence” and must be taught to all students in all grades. Outcomes of such instruction should include the “ability to demonstrate refusal skills, overcome peer pressure, and use decision-making skills.”


Educational materials and the grade levels at which they will be introduced are determined by local school districts. All instruction must be age appropriate. Local school boards must “insure the involvement of parents, staff, and students in the development of polices and the review of instructional materials.” The state neither suggests curriculum nor limits what may or may not be included in sexuality education instruction.


New Mexico does not require parental permission for students to participate in sexuality or HIV/AIDS education nor does it say whether parents or guardians can remove their children from such classes.


See New Mexico Administrative Code 6.12.3.9.


Parents for Truth Member Organizations in New Mexico


New Mexico Abstinence Education Coalition
Laurel Edenburn
6 Parklane Cricle
Peralta, NM 87042-8816
www.nmaec.org


Socorro General Hospital’s – Healthy Family Initiative
Elizabeth Brewer-Beer
107 Faulkner St.
Socorro, NM 87801
575-835-8791
www.healthyfamilyinitiative.org (for adults)
www.wakeupanddrive.net (for youths)


Community Abstinence Network
Angie Carver
PO Box 1865
Las Cruces, NM 88004
575-527-9022
www.mrprc.org


Other Abstinence Education Organizations in New Mexico