Ánimo Pat Brown Charter High School provides students with access to sexual and reproductive health information through its Planned Parenthood Peer Advocates program, a student-led initiative designed to connect teens with confidential medical resources. The program allows students to learn about services such as birth control, STD testing, and relationship health without needing to speak directly to an adult.

The Peer Advocates program operates as a school club but is primarily run by trained employees from Planned Parenthood. Students involved in the program receive education on sexual health topics and then share that information with their peers on campus.

English and Journalism teacher Mr. Nevarez serves as the club’s advisor, assisting students with school-related logistics such as organizing events, posting informational materials, and coordinating activities. He explained that his role is supportive rather than instructional, as Planned Parenthood staff oversee the program’s training and content.

“They kind of market it as a club. It’s called Planned Parenthood Peer Advocates,” Nevarez said. “The students get trained in sexual health services, and then they come in and share the information here with the school.”

According to Nevarez, the program allows students to feel more comfortable asking questions because they can speak with peers their own age instead of school staff or clinic employees.

“So students don’t need to go talk to an adult,” Nevarez said. “They can talk to the peer advocates who are their age, so they feel more comfortable asking about where to get birth control or services.”

Planned Parenthood services are available to teens, and California law allows minors age 12 and older to access certain medical services without parental consent. Nevarez said confidentiality is a key part of the organization’s approach.

“This is law in California,” Nevarez said. “If you’re over the age of 12, you can access medical services without your parents’ consent.”

Nevarez said one of the most common misconceptions about Planned Parenthood is that it primarily provides abortions, when in reality, most services focus on education and preventative care. “Planned Parenthood is way more than abortions,” he said, emphasizing that the organization offers a wide range of health services designed to help students make informed decisions.

Students can access Planned Parenthood services by calling the appointment line at 1-800-576-5544.