Title IX Process for Students

Understanding Title IX: Keeping Our Students Safe

What is Title IX?

Title IX is a federal law that protects students from discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment, assault, stalking, or unfair treatment due to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or pregnancy.

Has your child experienced or witnessed something concerning?

Examples include unwanted touching, offensive comments, bullying related to sex or gender, or unequal treatment in school programs. If so, here’s how the Title IX process works to address it:

Steps of the Title IX Process

1. Reporting the Incident
   • What to do: Share concerns with a teacher, principal, or the district’s Title IX Coordinator.
   • Options: You can report in person, by phone, email, or anonymously (if available).
   • Parent’s Role: Encourage your child to speak up or report on their behalf. All reports are taken seriously.
2. Initial Review
   • The Title IX Coordinator or school administrator assesses the report to determine if it falls under Title IX (e.g., involves sex-based discrimination).
   • What happens: You’ll be contacted to discuss the situation and your child’s needs.
   • Parent’s Role: Provide details and ask about support options for your child.
3. Supportive Measures
   • The school may offer help, like counseling, schedule changes, or safety plans, to protect your child.
   • These are available whether or not a formal investigation happens.
   • Parent’s Role: Work with the school to ensure your child feels safe and supported.
4. Formal Complaint (Optional)
   • You or your child can choose to file a formal complaint to trigger an investigation.
   • If you prefer not to, the school may still investigate if the issue is serious.
   • Parent’s Role: Discuss with your child and the Coordinator to decide what’s best.
5. Investigation
   • A trained investigator gathers facts by interviewing those involved and reviewing evidence.
   • The process is fair, confidential, and respects all parties’ rights.
   • Parent’s Role: Stay in touch with the school and support your child during interviews.
6. Decision and Outcome
   • The district’s Title IX team determines if Title IX was violated based on evidence.
   • You’ll receive a report explaining the findings and any actions (e.g., discipline, policy changes).
   • Parent’s Role: Review the outcome and ask questions if needed.
7. Appeal (If Needed)
   • If you disagree with the decision, you can appeal within a set timeframe (usually 5–10 days).
   • An independent reviewer re-evaluates the case.
   • Parent’s Role: Follow the school’s appeal process if you feel the outcome isn’t fair.

 

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Your Rights as a Parent

• You and your child are protected from retaliation for reporting.
• You can access resources like counseling or community support.
• You’ll be kept informed throughout the process.

How to Report/Where to find information

• Online: www.myrcsd.org/public-information/title-lx

We’re Here to Help

Our school is committed to a safe, respectful environment for all students. Reach out to learn more or get support.