PROVINCETOWN, Mass.—A new policy in Provincetown public schools that makes condoms available to all students, even in elementary school, is drawing criticism from some who say it goes too far.
The policy, which takes effect in the fall, was approved by the school committee June 10. Board Chairman Peter Grosso says the decision was made in the interests of student safety. He says because there is no set age when sexual activity starts, the committee decided not to set an age for condom availability.
Under the policy, any student requesting a condom from a school nurse must first receive counseling, which includes information on abstinence. The policy does not require the school to contact parents.
Kris Mineau, president of the conservative Massachusetts Family Institute, called the policy absurd