OCR Short Webinar on How to Report Sexual Harassment under Title IX

Q: What is the role of a Title IX Coordinator?

A: The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for ensuring and overseeing compliance with Title IX regulations within an educational institution.

Q: What is the definition of sexual harassment under Title IX?

A: Sexual harassment under Title IX includes unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that interferes with a person's ability to fully participate in, or benefit from, educational programs or activities.

Q: What are some obligations of schools under Title IX in responding to reports of sexual harassment?

A: Schools are obligated to promptly respond to reports of sexual harassment, conduct impartial investigations, provide supportive measures to affected individuals, and take appropriate disciplinary actions.

Q: What is the process for filing a formal complaint under Title IX regulations?

A: The process typically involves submitting a written complaint to the school's Title IX Coordinator, who will then initiate an investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment.

Q: What are supportive measures in the context of Title IX?

A: Supportive measures are interim actions taken by the school to support and protect individuals involved in a Title IX investigation, such as counseling services, academic accommodations, or no-contact orders.

Q: What is the grievance process in addressing allegations of sexual harassment under Title IX?

A: The grievance process is the formal procedure used to resolve disputes or complaints related to allegations of sexual harassment under Title IX, which may involve hearings, appeals, and the determination of responsibility.

Q: When can schools consider emergency removal of respondents under Title IX?

A: Schools may consider emergency removal of respondents when necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals on campus, pending the outcome of a formal investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment.

Q: How do law enforcement activities interact with a school's Title IX obligations?

A: Law enforcement activities may run concurrently with a school's Title IX investigation, but schools must still fulfill their obligations under Title IX to address and respond to reports of sexual harassment on campus.

Q: What are some final notes on grievance process timelines under Title IX?

A: It is important for schools to adhere to specific timelines outlined in Title IX regulations for conducting investigations, issuing findings, and providing resolution to parties involved in the grievance process.

Q: Where can individuals find additional resources for understanding Title IX regulations?

A: Individuals can typically find additional resources for understanding Title IX regulations on their school's website, through the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, or by contacting the school's Title IX Coordinator directly.

Q: What contact information is available for inquiries and complaints related to Title IX?

A: Contact information for inquiries and complaints related to Title IX is usually provided by the educational institution or can be obtained by reaching out to the Title IX Coordinator or relevant administrative offices.