School Health Advisory Councils (SHACs)

School Health Advisory Councils (SHACs) are required by law in several states, including Texas and Michigan. SHACs are comprised of community members and are tasked with reviewing and suggesting sex education curricula or content to school boards. While SHACs typically do not have any authority over policy, they are still a valuable advocacy tool. In some cases, SHACs must be composed of students or other youth from the community, religious leaders, parents, or medical professionals. All of these groups can be great allies in your sex education work. For example, we know that religious leaders generally support comprehensive sex education and can be a powerful and respected voice within a community. We also know that parents overwhelmingly support comprehensive sex education, and that major medical groups do as well. To learn more about whether or not there is SHAC in your school district or to request assistance, please contact Advocates’ state strategies staff at 202-419-3420.