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Board adopts K–12 music, physical education and health curriculum
Summary
After public testimony and board discussion, the school board approved the district’s proposed K–12 music, physical education and health curriculum, with option for parental opt-out on sensitive health units.
The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District Board of Education voted April 15 to adopt the proposed K–12 music, physical education and health curriculum.
Board members, curriculum committee members and a parent spoke in support of the health materials, emphasizing age-appropriate content and parent opt-out provisions. The administration recommended adoption after committee review and public comment.
Adia Cotter, a parent who testified during public comment, said she supports continuing sex education in schools and praised the curriculum’s focus on communication, relationships and mental and emotional health. Several board members described the development process: teacher-led drafting, committee review, public comment and multiple drafts before a recommendation to the full board.
Board discussion highlighted that the health curriculum includes noncontroversial topics such as nutrition, sleep, safety and relationship-building, and noted an amendment by the student representative to include naloxone training in health science pathways. The board voted to adopt the curriculum by roll call; the motion carried unanimously.
The district noted that parents may opt their children out of specific lessons they find objectionable under district policy; administration said notices and materials will be provided so families can review content before units are taught.
