Common Myths Regarding Title IX

Title IX applies to all educational programs and activities, not just athletics. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Academics and classroom instruction

• Recruitment, admissions, and financial aid

• Student support services and counseling

• Housing and campus employment

• Pregnancy and parenting accommodations

• Employee hiring, benefits, and leave

• Athletics and extracurricular activities

Athletics are only one part of Title IX compliance.

Title IX protects all individuals from sex-based discrimination, regardless of sex or gender. This includes protections related to:

• Sexual harassment and misconduct

• Pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions

• Parenting status

• Sex-based stereotypes and unequal treatment

Title IX applies to everyone participating in or benefiting from an educational program or activity.

Title IX obligations can be triggered before a formal complaint is filed. Institutions have responsibilities when they become aware of conduct or circumstances that may impact equal access, including pregnancy- and parenting-related barriers.

Early reporting allows institutions to provide supportive measures and prevent discrimination.

Pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy loss, lactation, and parenting status are explicitly protected under Title IX. Institutions must provide reasonable academic adjustments and may not rely solely on individual faculty discretion to address these needs.

Faculty policies must align with federal law. If a syllabus or attendance policy conflicts with Title IX obligations, Title IX controls. Institutions are responsible for ensuring consistent compliance across all courses and programs.

Medical documentation may only be required if it is required of all students with temporary medical conditions. Pregnancy-related requests cannot be singled out or subjected to higher documentation standards.

Parenting students are protected from sex-based discrimination, including discrimination based on gender stereotypes related to caregiving, family responsibilities, or parental roles.

Reasonable academic adjustments are required to ensure equal access. They are not favors, leniency, or retroactive punishment. Adjustments are part of the institution’s legal obligations.

While the Title IX Office coordinates compliance, all faculty and staff share responsibility for referral, cooperation, and implementation of approved measures. Title IX compliance is an institutional obligation.