While psycho-sexual development is an important aspect of the transition to Catholic adulthood, Catholic moral teachings frame this process through age-appropriate expressions of affection, friendship, and love. Parents are expected to love and respect each other and their children and are to be the principal role models, examples and educators for their children of these teachings. Sexual activity that is unwelcome, that threatens an individual or involves any misconduct by a youth or an adult toward another person not only violates these moral teachings but also may be unlawful under state law. Misconduct, whether it occurs in the school, church, home or elsewhere, may be subject to mandatory reporting laws and can subject youth and adults to criminal sanctions. In certain circumstances, sexual conduct, even if it is apparently consensual, must be reported and can have criminal implications if one of the participants is not yet 18.

However, should a pregnancy occur, the entire school or parish community should offer Christian support to the mother and father to assure appropriate pre-natal medical and counseling care so that the pregnancy can be brought to term, and the infant will have an opportunity to grow and be nurtured as a child of God. In such circumstances, the principal, pastor, youth minister and other appropriate staff will meet with the pregnant couple and their parents to plan for the pregnancy, including alternatives to school and religious education arrangements that are appropriate for the medical, health and safety of the child in the womb, the pregnant couple and the school or parish community. In schools, the principal, in consultation with the Department of Catholic Schools and the pastor (for elementary and parish high schools) shall review all aspects of each case and make a determination, based on the particular circumstances, of the need for any schooling accommodations or arrangements.

In cases of pregnancy, the mother and father (if known) should be encouraged and assisted in obtaining professional medical care and professional counseling consistent with Catholic teachings, including teachings on the immorality of abortion, relevant to the pregnancy and the future of both parents and the unborn child. The Department of Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese can assist in the process and serve as a resource for services and referrals.