Family Life Education in Maine Public Schools: A Ten Year Look at Changes in Topics, Policy, And Procedure‪.‬

ABSTRACT This survey provides information on the status of family life/sexuality education in the State of Maine from 1990 to 2000. Responses were provided from 274 Health Education teachers and Family and Consumer Sciences teachers surveyed in 1990 and 147 teachers surveyed in 2000 from Maine's middle schools and high schools. Information was obtained in five primary areas: 1) the topics they teach; 2) their perceptions of the purpose of family life/sexuality education; 3) policy and procedure issues; 4) community support and involvement; and 5) the changes they would like to see implemented. The results indicate that while it is encouraging to see the range of topics being presented in both middle schools and high schools in Maine, the overall findings indicate that very little progress has occurred over the past decade. Procedures and policy issues, as well as community involvement, and suggested changes are discussed.