Opt-in sex education policies coming to Alberta classrooms this fall, province says

The Alberta government says it's moving ahead this fall with legislation that would require parents to proactively sign up to have their children opt-in, rather than the usual practice of opting out, for sex education.

It's a move that has teachers wondering what problem the province is looking to solve.

Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides, in a statement, said school boards, teachers, superintendents and parents are being consulted.

"We intend to propose legislation this fall and will continue to consult with stakeholders throughout the implementation of these policies," Nicolaides said.

It's not clear what the legislation might look like, but Premier Danielle Smith said in February it would involve parents opting-in their children to each formal lesson on sexual health.