
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, October 30, 1994                   TAG: 9410310077
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-7   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

TODAY'S TOPIC: SEX EDUCATION|

Where do the candidates stand on the introduction of the gay issue into the sexual education classes of the public schools and the introduction of birth control into our local junior highs?

Cynthia Dennis, Salem

COLEMAN: "This is the kind of issue that should always be decided by the community, with the advice and consent of parents, and never imposed by the U.S. Congress. It is my strong belief that, whatever the community decides, parents should be informed about the program and have an opportunity to approve their child's attendance."

NORTH: "Sex education classes should have a solid moral basis - what should and should not be condoned. I oppose the introduction of the gay lifestyle as a legitimate alternative in sex education classes or the advocacy of homosexuality in such classes. We need to stress abstinence regarding birth control in our local junior highs. I also believe parents should be involved in types of material presented in sex education classes."

ROBB: "The federal government should not dictate local junior high curricula. I favor allowing decisions regarding the teaching of sexuality to be made at the local level, because I believe very strongly that parents should participate actively in that decision-making process. I have, however, voted on several occasions to prevent federal funds from being used to promote or encourage homosexuality or sexual activity of any kind.

"I have also voted to prohibit federal funds from being used to distribute condoms unless the programs meet certain local control criteria."

by CNB