Sask. developing framework that could let 3rd-party organizations teach sex ed. in schools
CBC
Saskatchewan is developing a framework that could allow some third-party organizations back into the province's schools to present on sex education.
In a statement issued Monday, the province's Ministry of Education confirmed it is reviewing "the policies and procedures for third-party organizations who present on sexual health education in classrooms."
Last year, a high school student in Lumsden picked up graphic sexual education material after a presentation from Planned Parenthood Regina.
A backlash saw the government ban all third parties from presenting on sex education at schools.
Melissa Coomber-Bendtsen, CEO of YWCA Regina, said her organization has met with provincial officials, including the education minister and the justice minister, about the ban.
"We felt very strongly that it did impact our ability to address or prevent intimate partner violence in our community," she said.
Coomber-Bendtsen said the province told them it could take a full year before the framework was complete.
The news came as the province plans to spend $42.6 million on community-based organizations that provide help to those suffering from abuse.
The funding will be spread out over three years. The announcement was made at the still-under construction YWCA Centre for Women and Families in Regina.
According to Statistics Canada, Saskatchewan has the highest rate of police-reported family violence of any province.
Provincial Justice Minister Bronywn Eyre said the funding shows the province is committed to addressing the issue.
"So I think it's very important to look at the number and then focus on the specific work that these amazing community-based organizations do for women, children and families across the province," she said.
While organizations welcomed the funding, they said that more can and should be done.
"I think that any time that you're on the radar of the government, it is a good thing," said Coomber-Bendtsen.