1. The department of elementary and secondary education shall develop and establish guidelines for the teaching of sexual assault prevention and sexual assault counseling techniques for utilization by local school districts in the establishment of sexual assault prevention education programs. Such programs shall be adapted to the age and understanding of the pupils and shall be so emphasized in appropriate places in the curriculum as to give a full and adequate treatment of the subject.

2. Local boards of education may establish sexual assault prevention education programs in accordance with the guidelines developed by the department of elementary and secondary education under subsection 1 of this section; provided, however, that nothing in sections 589.010 to 589.040 shall be construed as mandating the establishment of such programs by local boards of education; and provided, further, that no child shall be compelled to participate in any such program if the parent or guardian of such child submits a written objection to such participation, on moral or religious grounds, to the principal or other person in charge of the school which the child attends.