Making children aware: Trafficking education in schools

October 11, 2026 - 04:48

Local school systems have revised their family life education policies to add child trafficking prevention as a separate section of instruction. The changes affect Kingsport City Schools and Sullivan County Schools, both of which have updated their guidelines to address the topic directly rather than folding it into existing lessons.

Under the revised policies, instruction on trafficking prevention will be delivered in a manner suited to each age group. The approach recognizes that younger students need different information than older ones, and that lessons should match a child's level of understanding without causing unnecessary fear.

The policies also require that an education plan be developed and submitted to the board of education for approval. This step gives board members a chance to review how the material will be taught, what topics will be covered, and how the lessons will be introduced in classrooms across the districts.

The decision reflects a growing push to help students recognize the signs of trafficking and know where to turn for help. By placing the subject within family life education, schools can reach children early and give them tools that may protect them from exploitation. Parents and community members will have the opportunity to see the plan once it is presented to the board.