SKOWHEGAN — A two-session course on guiding teens about alcohol/drugs and sexual behavior/romantic relationships will be held 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, March 20 and 27, at Skowhegan Area High School.

“Talking to our teens about alcohol, drugs and sex is the most important conversation we don’t have,” Anna Court, coordinator of the Somerset County Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program, said in a press release. “These conversations can be difficult for parents, but what is even more challenging is trying to grow up without help from caring adults. In my experience, alcohol/drugs and sex/romantic relationships are where teens need the most help but get the least guidance.”

“If we let the media or other teens teach our children, we will not like the messages,” Court said. She noted that our culture and the popular media show sex without commitment or emotional consequences or even protection from pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.

Teachers for the classes are Rob Rogers, Kennebec Behavioral Health, and Jessica Hebert, Greater Somerset Public Health Collaborative, on alcohol and other drugs on March 20. Court and adult interns will teach the the sexual behavior and relationships class March 27. Registration is through School Administrative District 54 Adult Education, call 474-7553, or visit msad54.maineadulted.org.

“The classes are supported by grants from local businesses and the Hudson Foundation making it possible to charge just the $5 registration fee,” Court said.

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