In a recent meeting of the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) held on February 9, 2025, significant discussions centered around the curriculum resources for the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind (USDB). The board deliberated on the inclusion of specific educational videos aimed at teaching consent, which sparked a debate about their appropriateness and effectiveness for students.

The primary focus was on two videos: "2 Minutes Will Change the Way You Think About Consent" and "Tea Consent." Board members expressed concerns that these videos might confuse students rather than educate them on the important topic of consent. One member highlighted that students might struggle to connect the content of the videos to their own experiences, suggesting that the intended messages could be lost on the audience.

During the discussions, it became clear that the board was divided on the issue. While some members supported the removal of the videos from the curriculum, others believed that the topics were essential for student education. Ultimately, the board voted to remove both videos from the curriculum list, with the motion passing by a majority.

In addition to the video discussions, the meeting also touched on the broader implications of educational resources and their alignment with the needs of students at USDB. The board acknowledged the importance of providing relevant and comprehensible materials that resonate with the unique experiences of their student population.

As the meeting concluded, the board moved forward with approving other recommended resources for the upcoming school year, emphasizing the need for ongoing evaluation of educational content to ensure it meets the needs of all students. The discussions highlighted the board's commitment to fostering an inclusive and effective learning environment, while also navigating the complexities of sensitive topics in education.