ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Rockingham County school officials are considering a policy change in which students would not receive family life education unless parents give their permission.

Currently, students automatically receive family life education that covers topics such as family relationships and sex education, unless a parent chooses to opt out.

School Superintendent Dr. Larry Shifflett explained the difference during this week’s school board meeting.

“Before we can teach that curriculum to the child, we have to have a consent form in our hands so that we know that you as a parent have given your permission. That’s sort of the big difference,” said Dr. Shifflett.

Board members will discuss the change and may vote on it at a future meeting.