Pregnancy/Abortion

Pressures in our society influence young people toward choosing sex outside of marriage. This choice is never acceptable. Despite our best efforts to assist our young people in forming a conscience that is consistent with our Catholic values, it is a fact that some will make choices contrary to these values.

In cases where pregnancy occurs, students are in need of our best efforts to lend support to a decision affirming the value of life. The administrative staff recommends that students and parents contact a counseling agent consistent with the Catholic philosophy of life for assistance in considering their option of choosing adoption or single parenting. Regardless of the student’s decision, if they choose to remain in school, they may do so without penalty. We need to respond with compassion to the birth mothers and fathers, letting them know they have our support, remembering always that when a student reveals his/her pending parenthood, he/she is demonstrating a commitment to the principle of right to life.

Society also approves and often encourages young people who experience a pregnancy to choose abortion. This option is never acceptable. In the event the administration becomes aware of a student who considering an abortion, or has obtained one, counseling consistent with Catholic pro-life principles will be provided. Despite the tragic error of judgment represented by the decision to abort the baby, it is our belief that the Catholic school remains the best and most supportive environment in which to continue education.

Due to the nature of the unique character of individuals and of each school environment, the integration of the student into the school must be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Finally, all of the above cited provisions concerning unwed mothers and the respective unwed fathers shall apply to married mothers and their respective spouses.

Diocese of Sioux City

Board of Education

Policy effective July 1, 1992