Lyness: Planned Parenthood Issue is Closed

Despite the presence of about two dozens parents and concerned citizens in regards to the Human Growth and Development Curriculum in the district's fourth and fifth grade, Board of Education President Jack Lyness said as far as the board is concerned, the issue is closed.

James Freeman, a concerned parent who said the district's relationship with Planned Parenthood in developing the curriculum, said he was disappointed that the board had decided to continue using materials provided by such an organization.

"This is an inherent conflict of interest," he said. "The more kids have sex the more kids need the services this organization provides."

Marybeth Cahill, a mother of three, spoke on behalf of another mother who couldn't be there. Cahill relayed a comment from a fourth grader girl after the second of three Sex-Ed lessons.

"Isn't that gross that boys have wet dreams," the girl said to her mother, Cahall explained.

Other girls have said to their moms, Cahall relayed, "I think it is weird that moms marry moms" and "the teacher told us that babies are made by having sex."

"These statements being made by a fourth grader are very concerning to me," Cahall said.

Cahaill also expressed concern that these lessons are being taught in a co-educational environment when her research shows many other surrounding towns divide up the boys and girls.

"I just feel like fourth grade is a little young to be hearing this," she said. "I don't know of any fourth graders who are sexually active."

Lyness said the parents have the right to appeal the board's decision to the Commission of Education Bret Schundler.