February 2026
Dear 5th Grade Parents/Guardians,
As part of our Science and Health Education Program, 5111-grade students will participate in a unit focused on human growth and development. To provide age-appropriate instruction, boys and girls will receive separate presentations covering the physical and emotional changes of puberty. In accordance with California Education Code, we are required to notify parents before introducing any content related to human reproductive organs, and their functions, and related processes.
The Always Changing and Growing Up Program helps both boys and girls:
- Understand the physical and emotional changes they experience during puberty, and acknowledge these changes as a regular part of growth and development.
- Learn the physiology of their bodies and correct terminology for parts of the reproductive system.
- Understand that personal hygiene is each individual's responsibility.
In addition, the program helps girls:
- Understand the menstrual cycle.
- Understand what to expect during a period.
- Learn how to manage periods while continuing with everyday activities.
The Always Changing and Growing Up Program is based on national research and consultation with school nurses, health educators, parents, and medical professionals. It has been a trusted resource for over 30 years and has been taught to millions of students nationwide. This program is provided at no cost to our school district by Procter & Gamble.
We encourage you to preview the videos being used in the Family Life Education Program by visiting the Dry Creek School website: https://www.drycreek.k12.ca.us
The videos used for the separate presentations are: "Always Changing and Growing Up: Girls' Puberty Education Video" and "Always Changing and Growing Up: Boys' Puberty Education Video".
The program will be taught by 5th grade teachers/staff during the month of March before Spring Break.
If you DO NOT want your child to participate in 5th grade Family Life, please send your opt out request to your child 's teacher.
Sincerely,
Megan Devine
Director, Student Services and Community Engagement
