Arkansas Man Calls for Stronger Sex Education, Respect for All

Arnold Holtberg, an educator and father, argues that we must do more to teach youth about sexuality and treat all people with dignity.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:52am

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In an op-ed, Arnold Holtberg, a 78-year-old educator and father, expresses concern about the lack of proper sex education for youth and the need for greater respect in sexual relationships. He recounts hearing disturbing comments from young men about "conquering" women and argues that powerful men have excused unethical sexual behavior. Holtberg believes sex education should be taught in schools, churches, and other institutions, covering biology and physiology while emphasizing respect, kindness, and care in all sexual interactions.

Why it matters

Holtberg's perspective highlights ongoing societal issues around sexual ethics, consent, and the need for comprehensive sex education. As incidents of sexual misconduct and assault continue to make headlines, his call for instilling values of respect and dignity in how we approach sexuality is an important contribution to the broader conversation.

The details

In the op-ed, Holtberg recounts hearing young men make disturbing comments about "conquering" women, which he suspects was a reference to date rape. He has also heard from women who were victims of sexual assault at various points in their lives. Holtberg argues that too many powerful men have excused unethical sexual behavior or avoided responsibility for their actions. He believes sex education should be taught in churches, synagogues, temples, and schools, covering biology and physiology while emphasizing respect, kindness, and care in all sexual interactions.

  • Holtberg has been an educator for more than 50 years.
  • The op-ed was published on March 15, 2026.

The players

Arnold Holtberg

A 78-year-old educator, father, grandfather, brother, and husband who has led co-educational schools and a school for boys. He has become increasingly concerned about how we educate youth about sexuality.

Holtberg's wife

A women's health nurse practitioner and former high school teacher of human sexuality who has strong opinions on how we should proceed in this area.

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The takeaway

Holtberg's op-ed underscores the urgent need for comprehensive, values-based sex education that teaches respect, consent, and the inherent dignity of all people. His call to action challenges us to confront harmful attitudes and behaviors, and to instill in youth a deeper understanding of sexuality grounded in ethics and empathy.