Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection first and foremost is a medical problem, but it entails a host of other problems--social, moral, ethical, legal, and fiscal--with numerous and complex implications for the entire community, including schools. Public health officials stress that the combined efforts of federal and state governments, schools, local agencies, and national and local organizations are needed to combat the spread of this deadly virus. Because education is the most effective means for controlling the epidemic, education to prevent HIV infection should focus on those people who practice risky behaviors, including school-age youth. The results of a 1987 study of sexually active teenagers, however, show that knowledge alone will not have the desired effects on adolescents; HIV education must focus on behaviors. While the best way to approach HIV education is to educate the entire school staff--with special emphasis on inservice sessions for teachers--before students receive classroom instruction, ultimately HIV education responsibility belongs to local school boards. As the appointed officials of their local schools, board members are in the best position to ensure that an HIV education program reflects community needs and values and is designed and implemented appropriately and effectively. (59 references) (KM)