Erin's Law update for elementary, middle school families

Since 2019, Erin’s Law has required public schools in New York to provide instruction on the prevention of child sexual abuse and exploitation to students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

The New York State Department of Education provides school districts with resources to help educators recognize the warning signs of child sexual abuse and exploitation, and develop curriculum to deliver to students.

This age-appropriate curriculum defines and addresses the wide range of behaviors and experiences related to sexual violence, such as child sexual abuse, sexual assault and child sexual exploitation. The curriculum is structured into grade bands, providing flexibility in its delivery over time. It is connected to our overall social-emotional and health and wellness curricula, including safety, self-esteem, body image, healthy relationships and how to get help when needed.

The City School District of Albany will deliver this curriculum over the coming months, using resources you can access on the State Education Department. You can click on your child’s grade band to see the objectives our teachers will address with students. 

You can find additional information and resources on these sites:

• FightChildAbuse.org
• BarbaraSinatraChildrenscenter.org

Erin’s Law is named for Erin Merryn, an abuse survivor and advocate. Erin’s Law is intended to help children, teachers, parents and guardians identify sexual abuse, and to provide awareness, assistance, referral or resource information for children and families that are victims of child sexual abuse.

If you would like further information or have any questions regarding this topic, please feel free to contact your child’s principal.