Replication of a Comprehensive Sexual Health Education Curriculum in Rural Latino Communities.

Background: School-based, comprehensive sexual health education is an important strategy for addressing the needs of youth in rural communities. However, few evidence-based programs have been developed specifically for or with rural youth, thus raising questions of their applicability and acceptability.

Methods: From September 2021 to January 2023, we replicated the Positive Prevention PLUS curriculum with 9th and 10th grade students in two predominantly Latino rural communities in Fresno County, California. We designed an implementation evaluation that used daily attendance data and pretest/posttest student surveys to assess program dosage and reach, short-term changes in knowledge and awareness of local services, and participant satisfaction.

Results: Health educators implemented the program with 1233 students, who attended an average of 92% of sessions. Students responded positively, with most reporting the program to be very or somewhat interesting (94%) and useful (97%). Statistically significant increases were noted in short-term outcomes, including sexual health knowledge, awareness of local sexual health services, and willingness to seek services when needed.

Conclusions: Comprehensive sexual health education can be successfully implemented with Latino youth in rural communities, with evidence of strong attendance, program satisfaction, and positive change in short-term outcomes.