Starting with the class of 2028, Cambridge students will be required to take a new “Health II” class in order to graduate, following a decision made by the Cambridge School Committee on Tuesday. Originally proposed for the class of 2027, the requirement was delayed by one year due to concerns about the district’s current lack of personnel to implement the change immediately.
The two-semester course will be introduced next fall, with current high school students having the option to take it. The need for the new health course stemmed from reports of troubling levels of sexual harassment and assault among students at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, prompting a motion by the committee in February 2022. This motion highlighted the importance of increased health education on topics such as consent, anti-discrimination, overdose prevention, media literacy, and digital citizenship.
Student representative Jeanne Alailima emphasized the importance of making the course mandatory, noting the lack of resources for students who may benefit from it the most. However, freshman Imogene Wu raised concerns about the necessity of the new course, pointing out that students already receive comprehensive health education starting in sixth grade.
The decision to implement the “Health II” course was met with some opposition, with Vice Chair Caroline M. Hunter expressing concerns about the district’s ability to provide sufficient personnel for the course. CRLS Principal Damon Smith cited the need for three full-time educators to teach the course to a full grade-level at once, while the district only budgeted for one full-time educator.
Committee member Richard Harding Jr. voted against the motion, stating the need to review the curriculum before making a decision. Despite the ongoing discussions, committee member Rachel B. Weinstein emphasized the urgency of taking action, as student course selection for the upcoming school year was already underway.
Overall, the decision to implement the “Health II” course reflects the district’s commitment to addressing important health education issues among students, despite challenges related to resources and personnel. The ongoing debate underscores the importance of comprehensive and accessible health education for all students.
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