Erin's Law Information

In August of 2019, New York State became the 37th state to sign Erin’s Law into legislation. Erin’s Law, named for Erin Merryn, a sexual abuse survivor, author, and advocate, is intended to help children, teachers, and parents in New York State public schools. The resources provided help students and families identify warning signs of sexual abuse, and provide awareness, assistance, or referral for children and families who are victims of child sexual abuse or exploitation. One of the requirements of the law is for schools to provide an age- appropriate curriculum to all students in grades K-8. The New York State Mandate does not allow parents to opt their children out of the lessons presented.

Students in kindergarten, grade 2, and grade 4, will be presented with lessons in their classrooms to meet the requirements of Erin’s Law with the support of our social workers and school psychologists, and will be led by Ms. Foley, of the Ulster County Crime Victims Department. The lessons will utilize the New York State grade band benchmarks and suggested resources. They are developmentally-appropriate and more information for parents and guardians can be found in the slideshow linked here: Child Sexual Abuse and Erin’s Law for Parents

The NYS Education Department developed a resource grid that parents and guardians can easily access to help better discuss these topics with your children, as well as gain a better understanding of what Erin’s Law is and its intent to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation. Please visit https://www.nysed.gov/sites/default/files/programs/standards-instruction/erins-law-family-resources.pdf for more information.

For any questions about Erin’s Law curriculum in our school district, please contact your child's building principal.