By Rohit Dilip | Staff Writer

After rejecting the sexual health textbook “Your Health Today” for freshmen health classes, the Fremont Unified School District unanimously approved the 2011 erotic novel “Fifty Shades of Grey,” written by E.L. James, as the primary course material this year.

The novel is set to be introduced to students in October of this school year. The new curriculum calls for in-class readings and analysis of the text. Supplementary video material will be available and mandatory watching in February 2015 when the movie based on the novel is released.

“After the proposed textbook was removed due to complaints that its BDSM content was too ‘explicit’ and ‘unnecessary for high school students,’ we searched for something more age appropriate,” explained district spokesperson Mr. Gabriel Gardner. “Based on parental discussions, we decided that ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ was both accessible for the average student and a more realistic portrayal of modern sexual activity.”

Mr. Gardner discussed the rationale behind the choice.

“Many people did not want their children to learn about sexual activity through a textbook,” he said. “‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ was the obvious choice for an appropriate reference.”

Numerous parents have voiced their support of the new curriculum.

“Although I had my doubts after ‘Your Health Today’, the district’s really pulled through,” said Fremont parent Sean McFeely. “I’m glad my child will have a simple, contemporary way to learn about sexual activities.”

The district said it hopes the new curriculum will encourage students to find healthy outlets for their growing sexual tensions. To address the lack of sexual education in high school students, FUSD proposed expanding sex education to sophomores and juniors using the sequels “Fifty Shades Darker” and “Fifty Shades Freed” respectively. The majority of parents reacted positively to the proposal.

“It’s important that we change our sex-ed curriculum as time passes,” remarked Mr. McFeely. “After all, it’s not just about condoms anymore!”