Board approves first reading of sex education materials after debate over consent content

The Granite School District Board of Education approved the first reading of updated sex education materials during its Sept. 17 study session, with a 6–1 vote. Board member Karyn Winder moved to approve the first reading; Kris Nguyen seconded the motion, which carried after discussion.

Opposition centered on whether the curriculum should include instruction about consent. Board member Kim Chandler said she did not support materials that teach about consent. Curriculum director Noelle Converse outlined the sex education committee's membership, responsibilities and the recommendations based on the 30-day public posting and patron feedback. The meeting record notes that "Julie Jackson commented, she appreciates the inclusion of informed consent in the sex education materials." The formal vote recorded Connie Burgess (yea), Kim Chandler (nay), Nicole McDermott (yea), Clarke Nelson (yea), Kris Nguyen (yea), Karyn Winder (yea); Julie Jackson was absent for the vote. The motion passed, Yea: 6, Nay: 1.

The approved motion specified this as the "first reading" of the materials; the district will follow its regular procedure for additional readings and final adoption. The administration listed the materials as having been available online for 30 days to solicit patron feedback prior to the board action. No public speakers addressed the item at the meeting.