During a recent school board meeting, 16-year-old Marley Rigobaugh addressed the board, advocating for the passage of Assembly Bill 2229, which aims to provide comprehensive menstruation education to California youth. Rigobaugh, a student in the Early College High School program, highlighted the potential impact of the bill, which has already been signed by Governor Newsom, on thousands of students who currently lack access to essential information about their bodies.

Rigobaugh expressed disappointment over the board's previous rejection of a support letter for the bill, citing concerns that discussions about menstruation should be limited to medical professionals or family members. She argued that this perspective ignores the social stigmas surrounding menstruation, which often prevent open conversations and access to necessary education. Rigobaugh emphasized that schools are ideally positioned to provide this education, as many families view menstruation as a taboo subject.

The student also countered the board's assertion that adding menstruation education to the existing sexual health curriculum addresses a non-existent problem. She pointed out that if the current curriculum were effective, there would not be a need for initiatives like the \"Know Your Periods\" petition, which garnered significant support from students across California.

Rigobaugh thanked trustees Anna Patero and Jack Flynn for their support of the bill, expressing hope that despite the board's earlier rejection, the implementation of AB 2229 would mark a positive change in how menstruation is discussed and understood in schools.

In addition to Rigobaugh's testimony, the meeting included discussions on various administrative matters, including the approval of copier services and updates to the district's comprehensive school safety plan. Dr. McCabe provided an overview of the safety plan, noting recent state requirements for updates, including protocols for responding to threats and ensuring instructional continuity during emergencies. The board is expected to review the updated safety plan in November, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance student safety and well-being in the district.