Byron-Bergen High School is expanding its sexual violence proactive prevention education. Students in grades 9 through 12 will attend an assembly on Thursday, September 27, presented by RESTORE Sexual Assault Services.
RESTORE provides educational services to all school age groups. In presentations to high school aged students, the curriculum includes understanding affirmative consent, an overview of responding to survivors, accessing help resources, and cultural prevention.
“We want students to understand what sexual violence looks like,” said RESTORE Outreach and Education Specialist Lauren Berger. “It is any act done without consent.”
Sexual violence education can be intense and RESTORE staff encourages students to take care of themselves in any way they need to throughout the presentation, whether it be taking a break or doodling. “Light-heartedness can make it more palatable,” said Genesee County Educator Hannah Kujawski. “Humor can deflate the tension and give breathing room.”
During the presentation, students will take part in interactive scenarios to help provide them with the tools to recognize unhealthy relationships, be supportive of survivors, and understand the false cultural perceptions of “survivors fault.”
“We have redoubled our efforts to ensure that we are graduating citizens who are aware and respectful of boundaries of consent, harassment, and assault,” said High School Principal Pat McGee. “Starting off the new school year with the RESTORE presentation sets the tone for what is expected of all of our students. We are very grateful for this partnership.”
Last school year, RESTORE presented to only the senior class.
RESTORE, a program of Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York, leads the community response to sexual violence through advocacy and education, by providing the safety, support and validation that changes the lives of all those affected. RESTORE serves Genesee, Monroe, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties.
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