Navarro Independent School District

Senate Bill 9, known as the Christine Blubaugh Act, aims to enhance public school instruction and materials focused on preventing child abuse, family violence, dating violence, and sex trafficking. The legislation amends Section 28.004 of the Education Code, requiring local school health advisory councils to recommend specific curricula and strategies for various grade levels. Key provisions include transparent access to instructional materials, a clear dating violence policy with reporting procedures, and parental involvement in the educational process. School boards are tasked with adopting effective materials based on expert recommendations and ensuring parents are informed about the district's instruction plans. This Act promotes a safe school environment and raises awareness of these critical issues among students and their families.

House Bill 1525, recently enacted by the Texas Legislature, aims to enhance the public school finance system and improve educational services across the state. The bill mandates that regional education service centers provide essential core services, including specialized training for teachers and assistance for compliance with special education mandates. It requires school districts to accept donations from recognized parent-teacher organizations to fund supplemental staff positions, ensuring transparency in the use of these funds. The legislation also emphasizes salary increases for teachers and educational staff while establishing protocols for human sexuality instruction, which involve parental notification and rights regarding curriculum review. Overall, House Bill 1525 seeks to strengthen educational support structures and promote compliance with state and federal guidelines, with certain provisions set to expire in 2025.

The SHARE program offers presentations designed for different age groups to help youth develop physically, emotionally, and socially. It is divided into three groups: 1. Elementary: Aimed at 5th graders, this presentation covers the basics of bodily changes and emphasizes the importance of privacy and safety during development. 2. Middle School: Tailored to age-appropriate levels, this presentation teaches students about boundaries, healthy relationships, goal setting, and making healthy decisions. 3. High School: Offered in a judgment-free environment, this curriculum is inclusive of all students, regardless of orientation or gender, and provides an option for either 3 or 4 sessions. Additional information can be accessed through links for each age group.

Teaching children healthy lifestyles is essential for their growth into healthy adults. Studies show that active kids perform better in school and are more likely to maintain lifelong healthy habits. The CDC identifies six key health risk behaviors—tobacco use, unhealthy eating, lack of physical activity, substance abuse, risky sexual behaviors, and violence—that negatively impact academic performance and attendance. Schools are crucial in addressing these health issues, fostering positive attitudes, and developing skills for a healthy future. Research indicates that schools can meet health needs while achieving academic goals and controlling costs. By prioritizing health education, we can enhance student learning outcomes.