Honors Theses
Date of Award
Spring 5-9-2026
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Public Policy Leadership
First Advisor
Melissa Bass
Second Advisor
Kirsten Dellinger
Third Advisor
Mary Pasco- Granger
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
This thesis examines the implementation of sex education policy in Mississippi, a state with persistently high rates of teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Although House Bill 999 (2011) mandates sex education in public schools, limited research has explored how this policy is enacted in practice. Drawing on qualitative interviews with high school educators, school nurses, and representatives from community-based organizations, this study investigates how sex education is delivered, how educators are prepared, and how social and institutional factors shape classroom instruction.
The findings identify four central themes: substantial variation in implementation across school districts, inconsistent and often insufficient teacher training, challenges in addressing sensitive or controversial topics, and weak accountability at the state level. Together, these factors contribute to significant disparities in students’ access to thorough and accurate sexual health information. While local control allows districts flexibility to reflect community values, it also produces uneven educational experiences and limits standardization. Many educators report feeling underprepared to teach complex material, leading to the omission or redirection of student questions, particularly on topics perceived as controversial.
By highlighting the gap between policy and practice, this thesis demonstrates that a statewide mandate alone is insufficient to ensure effective implementation. It argues for strengthened teacher training, clearer curriculum guidance, and enhanced accountability measures to improve the consistency and quality of sex education across Mississippi.
Recommended Citation
Wildman, Kathryn E., "Teaching Sex Education in Mississippi: A Qualitative Study of School Practices and Perspectives" (2026). Honors Theses. 3523.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3523
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