States give sex education a new look

For decades, public schools that teach sex education have emphasized a key point: that teens should delay sex. If they do not, then they need to use birth control to avoid pregnancy and use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

Now, a growing number of states are ushering in new sex education curricula that proponents say will help students build healthier relationships and become more comfortable with their sexuality. They’re having teachers talk to students about consent and catering some of their messages specifically to gay and transgender teenagers so they won’t feel isolated or face bullying.