Antigay groups challenge Maryland's gay-inclusive school curriculum

Two Maryland groups filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday to block a health curriculum that would allow discussions of homosexuality among eighth-graders as well as a video to be shown to sophomores demonstrating how to use a condom. Citizens for a Responsible Curriculum and the Virginia-based Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays and Gays want to prevent Montgomery County, Md., from starting the program in six schools later this week. A hearing has been set for Thursday. The new program, approved by the county board of education in November, would be used in all schools next year. "In general, parents have been supportive of the curriculum," said spokesman Brian Edwards. Parents must sign permission forms for their children to take part in the health curriculum, and parents can sit in on the sessions. Families also can choose alternatives that include abstinence-only programs. County educators say the changes were needed to teach students about the dangers of unprotected sex. However, those suing argue that the county is not doing enough to stress abstinence or allowing "formerly gay" people to present their views. (AP)