Comprehensive Sexuality Education Conference

2023 Conference

The 17th Annual Comprehensive Sexuality Education Conference will take place on April 7, 2023 at the Augusta Civic Center, Augusta Maine. Back in person after 4 years, this year’s conference theme is Sex Ed in a Changing World. From the pandemic to political divisions – our changing world has challenged educators to articulate, advocate for, and promote sexual health education in new ways. Our online-savvy youth can demonstrate their knowledge of the ‘basics’, yet still yearn for and deserve open and honest communication around sex education that is inclusive and represents their experiences. We have the opportunity to reframe sex education and become champions for positive sexuality that focuses on healthy, mutual and pleasurable relationships. This conference will inspire educators to embrace a journey towards a more holistic health-based approach to delivering sexuality education that meets young people where they are and builds support for comprehensive sex education.

Here’s a sneak peek of this year’s conference.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Dr. Rachael Gibson, Advocates for Youth

Rachael E. Gibson, PhD, MPH, MS, MEd (she/her/ella) is the Senior Program Manager of AMAZE Education at Advocates for Youth. Dr. Gibson is an AASECT Certified Sex Educator based in Miami, Florida and Cape Town, South Africa and has taught comprehensive sexuality education all over the U.S. and the world. Dr. Gibson has over 20 years of experience in the health and sexuality education field, and currently serves on SHAPE America’s National Health Education Council.

WORKSHOPS

Participants will attend two workshop sessions of their choice. Here is a sample of some of the workshop titles:

Building Welcoming and Inclusive Health Classes for Maine’s LGBTQ+ Youth
Abortion is Normal: Sharing Facts and Debunking Myths
Accessible Sex Ed for All
Porn Literacy
Resources for Culture Change: Youth Empowerment & Adult Allyship
What is Anti-Racist Sex Ed? Taking DEI from Theory to Action
The Perfect Girl Doesn’t Exist: Social Media and Body Image
Preventing Teen Dating Violence

Conference planning is still underway. Register NOW and stay tuned for conference updates as they develop.

ACCESSIBILITY – American Sign Language interpreters will be available. For this service and to share with us any other accessibility needs, please email training@mainefamilyplanning.org.

REGISTRATION FEES & SCHOLARSHIPS -The cost of the conference is $60 (with a special rate of $30 for students). Scholarships that cover the registration fee are available! For more information, please contact lkaplowitz@mainefamilyplanning.org.

We look forward to seeing you! CLICK HERE TO REGISTER