The STARS foundation was established in 1995 by Sharon Kitzhaber, Oregon's First Lady. Its objective is to promote a statewide and sustainable base for the program Students Today Aren't Ready for Sex.

STARS is a powerful abstinence program delivered to sixth-and seventh-graders in five classroom sessions. Trained teen leaders, accompanied by a classroom facilitator, present a clear and convincing message: “Its best for teens not to have sex.” Through role-playing and discussion, children learn concrete skills for postponing sex and practice how to effectively resist peer and social pressures.

STARS has made enormous strides since its creation in 1995. Thanks to its many partners, 190,000 Oregon middle school students have participated in the program in 33 of 36 counties, with the help of almost 12,000 teen leaders. Its successes are helping STARS work towards its long-term goal of becoming an integrated part of Oregon’s middle school curriculum.

For more information, visit the STARS Foundation website at www.stars-foundation.org.