Advancing Sexual Health Education in Arkansas’s Community Colleges: Addressing Disparities and Promoting Well-Being (2024)
This practice brief explores the potential benefits of implementing comprehensive sex education programs in Arkansas’s community colleges to address disparities in health care access, health outcomes, and health literacy, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Against the backdrop of restrictive abortion policies and significant gaps in reproductive health care services, the importance of equipping young adults with accurate information about sexual and reproductive health is emphasized. Drawing upon existing literature and theoretical frameworks, this brief offers recommendations for community college administrators, educators, student support services, and community partnerships to advance sexual health education initiatives. By embracing evidence-based interventions and fostering collaborative partnerships, community colleges can empower students to make informed decisions about their sexual health and relationships, contributing to a healthier, more equitable future for all residents of Arkansas.