OK SB289

Creates the "Health Education for Middle Schools Act of 2015" requiring health education instruction in grades 6-8, contingent upon legislative appropriation of funding.

Mandates instruction cover ten minimum units: physical activity, nutrition, alcohol/tobacco/drugs, behavioral health, oral health, environmental health, growth and development, injury prevention, bullying prevention, and wellness using state-adopted textbooks.

Requires health education be taught as a separate semester course with certified health education teachers, though online instruction is encouraged and school districts determine which grade level and teaching method.

Allows students to opt out of instruction in specific units if parents/guardians submit signed statement that the unit conflicts with sincerely held moral or religious beliefs, with no penalty to credit or graduation.

Encourages school districts to partner with community-based organizations like county health departments and hospitals for materials and resources, which must comply with state law; requires districts to notify parents in advance of participating organizations and provide copies of materials upon request.

Effective November 1, 2015.