California does not require sex education for students. But if sex ed is taught, California requires that it be comprehensive, providing information about both abstinence and contraception; in addition the law specifies it must be appropriate for all students regardless of sexual orientation. Learn more about failed abstinence-only programs in California.

Sex Education Policy

California does not require sex education for students. But if sex ed is taught, California requires that it be comprehensive, providing information about both abstinence and contraception; in addition the law specifies it must be appropriate for all students regardless of sexual orientation.

See California legal statutes governing sex education:

• California Education Code Sections 51930-51939
• Health Framework for California Public Schools

Funding for Abstinence-Only Programs in Fiscal Year 2007

• Title V Funds: $0
• Total Community-Based Abstinence Education (CBAE) Funds: $5,134,064
• Organizations receiving CBAE funds in California

Health Outcomes

Compared to the national average, California has a high teen pregnancy rate, while its AIDS rate tracks with national rates and STI rates, slightly lower than national.

Sexual Health Stats at a Glance

*Per 1000 young women ages 15-19
+Because of concern over recent changes in Chlamydia reporting and relative low incidence of syphilis, we used the state's gonorrhea rate as a stand-in for sexually transmitted infection rates.

Report Card

See how California scored on sexual health, policy, funding, and GLBTQ rights

Advocates' Partner Organizations:

• Andrew Hill High School, San Jose
• ACLU of Northern California
• California Latinas for Reproductive Justice
• TeenNow California