Missoula School District 1 develops comprehensive HIV AIDS curriculum for students

In a pivotal meeting held at Missoula County Public Schools, educators and health officials gathered to discuss the development of a comprehensive AIDS curriculum aimed at students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The meeting, which took place on May 28, 2025, was a culmination of years of effort to address the pressing need for education on HIV and AIDS, particularly following a health survey conducted in the 1991-92 school year that revealed students' desire for more information on the subject.

The groundwork for this curriculum began in the early 1990s, when a health committee was formed to include teachers, administrators, and parents. Notable figures such as Gwen Gamrant and Bonnie Leifer from the Missoula County Health Department played key roles in shaping the discussions. The committee's work led to the establishment of subcommittees focused on various health topics, including HIV/AIDS, which met regularly to compile and refine educational materials.

By September 1993, a detailed AIDS curriculum was presented to the Curriculum and Instruction (CNI) committee, which included definitions and a list of materials necessary for implementation. The curriculum was made available for public review, and due to significant community interest, the decision on its adoption was postponed to allow for further input and review of proposed educational videos.

Renee Hurt, a presenter at the meeting, highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding HIV in the United States, noting that approximately 1.5 million individuals are infected, with a growing number among teenagers. She emphasized that HIV is not just an urban issue but affects rural areas as well, including Missoula County, which has reported 56 known cases. Hurt stressed the importance of early education in preventing the spread of the virus, advocating for a curriculum that begins as early as possible.

Linda Naul, the curriculum coordinator, elaborated on the specific goals for younger students, which include teaching about communicable diseases and promoting healthy behaviors. While AIDS is not directly discussed in the early grades, the curriculum aims to equip teachers with resources to address any questions students may have, emphasizing that AIDS is a difficult disease to contract.

As the meeting concluded, the commitment to fostering a well-informed student body was clear. The proposed curriculum not only aims to educate students about HIV and AIDS but also seeks to instill a sense of empathy and support for those affected by the disease. With the community's involvement and ongoing discussions, Missoula County Public Schools is poised to take significant steps toward enhancing health education for its students.