Teachers choose our program because of the focus on mutually respectful relationships as a means to positive sexual decision-making. Each of our grade level workshops are developed to address a portion of the Alberta Learning Curriculum for Health Studies, of which abstinence is a required component. All information presented regarding birth control and its’ effectiveness is taken from Alberta Health Services, and all statistical information is thoroughly researched and referenced. The workshops do not contain a moral or religious agenda. The information presented is gender neutral and relevant to all students, regardless of their personal beliefs or sexual orientation. We are non-judgmental and unbiased in our delivery of information which is appreciated by both teachers and students and evidenced by the evaluations taken after every class. All presentations take place with the teacher present in the classroom. Schools request us each year because they are pleased with the information presented and the manner in which it is given. Teachers remark that one aspect that makes our program unique is how comfortable the students are in asking questions and interacting with the presenters. We receive very high ratings from both teachers and students.
Teens are already talking about sex; here, we have to opportunity to join in and help facilitate the discussion. The Pregnancy Care Centre takes seriously, not only its commitment to helping those in crisis in the community, but also to providing preventative education for Calgary’s teenagers. Since 1986 the CPCC has been offering sexual health education for junior high and high school students, free of charge, through the Take Charge Community Education Program – a division of the CPCC. Over the last year we spoke with over 16,000 students and parents in Calgary and the surrounding areas. The Take Charge Program aims to help teens navigate pressing questions regarding sex, relationships, and dating. Our hope is that through education, dialogue, and asking the right questions, our teens will be better able to discern between healthy and unhealthy perspectives and behaviors. Emphasizing respect, personal worth and value, and the right to refuse, our Take Charge Program presents abstinence as a way of respecting self and others. Workshops are interactive and discussion oriented. Oh yeah, and FUN! Information focuses on the prevention of unplanned pregnancy, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and the importance of healthy relationships.