Can publicly funded Ontario Catholic schools omit topics like contraception and gender diversity from their sex ed curriculum? Some education advocates would say no. But Catholic school officials say sex ed curriculum taught in Catholic schools must align with Church teachings and be approved by Catholic bishops. Caught in the middle are Catholic school teachers, who are asked to meet the demands on both sides.

In this episode, hosts Matt Nethersole and Tiff Lam unpack what’s included, and excluded, in bishop-approved sex ed. They also speak with equity-focused educators about a projected $1.7 million investment in new Ontario Catholic sex ed textbooks. Later, they explore some of the barriers to queer and trans inclusion in Catholic schools, and the efforts being made to reimagine Catholic education in the 21st century.

This episode is essential listening for parents, students, educators, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith, public education, and human rights in Ontario.

Correction: Fabian Roberts says he retired in 2000 in the episode but confirmed later that he in fact retired in 2021. TVO regrets the error.

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