During the 2018 legislative session, Senate Bill 401 was passed which requires public school districts in the state of Georgia to provide annual, age-appropriate sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention education in grades kindergarten through ninth grade and in-service training for school personnel.
The MBF Child Safety Matters program includes the topics of bullying, cyberbullying, child abuse, sexual abuse and digital dangers with an emphasis that adults are responsible for children’s safety. The topic of sexual abuse is not an easy topic to have with young children, and the Columbia County School System respects parents and the values that each family holds for their children. To honor this high level of respect, parents will determine if they want their child to be a part of this discussion or if they would prefer to have the discussions at home. Your school counselors will conduct the lessons here at school. All materials that will be used in the classrooms are available for viewing by parents upon request. Please know that the goal of this requirement for our district is to keep children safe. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your child’s school.