A new public school policy in Chicago will require schools to make condoms available to kids as young as 10 years old, sparking backlash from parents and religious figures.
The new policy was passed back in December 2020, but wasn't able to be fully implemented until schools reopen fully next month due to the pandemic.
One tenet of the policy states: 'Schools that teach grade 5th and up must maintain a condom availability program.'
'CPS provides guidance regarding the notification to parents and access to condoms by approved school representatives. Condoms are provided at no cost by the Chicago Department of Public Health in an ongoing effort to mitigate the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV infection, and unintended pregnancy among CPS students,' the policy reads.
A similar part of the policy makes female menstrual hygiene products available for free as well.
A new public school policy in Chicago will require schools to make condoms available to kids as young as 10 years old (stock pictured)
There are over 600 schools in the Chicago Public Schools system, most of which have grade levels of fifth or higher
'All schools shall make menstrual hygiene products available, at no cost to students, in at least one bathroom in the school building,' the policy reads.
There are over 600 schools in the Chicago Public Schools system, most of which have grade levels of fifth or higher.
Previously, principals were the main arbiters in deciding how sex education and resources were dealt with in their individual schools.
Elementary schools will receive 250 condoms initially from the Chicago Department of Public Health, while high schools will receive 1,000.
When they run out, principals will be tasked with asking for more from CPS and the CDPH.
'Young people have the right to accurate and clear information to make healthy decisions,' CPS’ top doctor, Kenneth Fox, said in a recent interview, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
'And they need access to resources to protect their health and the health of others as they act on those decisions,' Fox continued.
The 'Condom Availability Program' policy that was approved in December 2020
Elementary schools will receive 250 condoms initially from the Chicago Department of Public Health, while high schools will receive 1,000 (stock pictured)
Fox will provide a letter to schools for parents about the policy, which dictates that the condoms be left in easily accessible, yet
