Board approves first readings of sexual- and comprehensive-health policies after heated public comment

The Modesto City Schools board approved the first readings of two new policies—BP 6142.1 (sexual health and HIV prevention instruction) and BP 6142.8 (comprehensive health education)—on May 18, accepting CSBA model language while asking staff to write administrative regulations that clarify parental notice and opt-out procedures.

Staff explained the district recommended CSBA text to ensure legal compliance amid ongoing changes in state guidance. "Because this is new, we—recommend 100% CSBA language," the presentation explained, and it included cross-references to Education Code sections that require certain content when health is a graduation requirement.

Public comment was lengthy and sharply focused on transparency and parental rights. "Parents are the primary moral and spiritual guides of their children," said Francine Sena, who asked the board to ensure advance notice, clear opt-out forms and meaningful access to curriculum materials. Pamela LaChapelle, another parent, urged the district to include practical skills such as role-playing "to empower students to resist unwanted sexual advances," and also urged longer review windows for materials.

Trustees said they heard the concerns and asked staff to draft an administrative regulation that would add operational details: at staff—s request, the board asked for at least 30 days— advance written notice to families (in practice the law requires no later than 14 days prior to instruction; trustees asked to extend that window for additional transparency), translation into major district languages, links or copies of materials, and accessible opt-out forms. Staff agreed to return the AR with the second reading.

The board approved the first readings after debate; the policies will return for a second reading once the AR and notice procedures are prepared. The next formal step on the calendar is the June 8 board meeting.