8 Supportive Measures a School Can Take in a Title IX Case

Navigating a Title IX case can be a challenging and emotional experience for everyone involved. Schools play a crucial role in fostering a safe, equitable, and supportive environment for students, staff, and faculty and supporting and accommodating them during these times.

Establishing clear, compassionate, and effective supportive measures is essential to ensure that schools prioritize the well-being of all parties while upholding fairness and integrity throughout the process. In this article, we’ll discuss eight supportive measures a school can take in a Title IX case.

Academic Accommodations

Providing academic accommodations is a crucial component of supportive measures in Title IX cases. Affected students may require extensions on assignments and exams to alleviate academic pressure during challenging times. Schools should allow students to withdraw from or retake classes without penalty, giving them the flexibility to address their well-being while maintaining academic progress.

Offering tutoring or additional academic support can also help students stay on track, ensuring they receive the resources needed to succeed. Additionally, relocating students to different sections can create a more comfortable and supportive learning environment tailored to their needs.

Schedule Adjustments

On the topic of relocating students to other parts of campus, schools can implement other strategies to keep students away from abusers.

• Adjust class schedules to minimize or eliminate interactions between the parties. This adjustment may involve moving a party to a different section or offering alternative class formats where feasible.
• Modify on-campus housing assignments to create physical distance between parties, ensuring a safe and low-stress environment for everyone.
• Rearrange extracurricular schedules to allow all parties to participate safely without overlap. Consider adjusting practice times, meeting dates, or assigned group roles.
• Offer options for remote participation in activities to ensure inclusion while maintaining necessary boundaries if your school cannot meet in-person accommodations.

Counseling and Mental Health Services

It’s important to make on-campus counseling services readily available to both parties involved in Title IX cases. Ensuring immediate and confidential access to these resources can mitigate the emotional impact such cases may cause. Establishing support groups or peer networks can also be invaluable, creating a sense of community and understanding among students facing similar challenges.

Additionally, partnering with external mental health professionals can provide specialized care for students requiring more tailored support. Providing trauma-informed counselors is essential to address the unique stressors and complexities related to Title IX cases, ensuring a compassionate and sensitive approach to mental health care.

No-Contact Orders

Many times, after sexual abuse or harassment occurs, the victim typically files for a no-contact order, and schools play a part in upholding it. This order can encompass everything from complete expulsion to providing online courses; violation of the no-contact order can result in litigation toward the schools in some cases. Clearly communicate the terms and conditions of the no-contact order to both parties, outlining specific expectations and restrictions to prevent misunderstandings.

Regularly monitoring compliance with these orders mitigates risks and avoids potential escalation of conflicts. Should a breach occur, the school must take swift and decisive action to reinforce accountability and protect those involved.

Providing Safety Resources

It may be wise to, at least temporarily, enhance safety when harassment or assault occurs. Institutions can increase campus security presence near areas of concern, such as residence halls, common spaces, or any locations identified during assessments. A visible security presence can deter harmful behavior and provide peace of mind to students, faculty, and staff.

Providing escort services or safe transportation options for students, particularly during the evening or night, is another critical step. These services ensure that individuals can travel across campus without fear, reducing the likelihood of unsafe encounters.

Institutions must ensure that students involved in Title IX cases have access to emergency contact information and crisis response resources. Installing or upgrading safety measures, such as swipe-access entry systems, security cameras, and well-lit pathways, can maintain a secure environment. These enhancements deter potential misconduct and provide peace of mind for everyone on campus.

Temporary Leave Options

Schools may grant affected students the option to take a temporary leave of absence without facing academic penalties. This measure allows individuals the necessary time to focus on their well-being and personal recovery while maintaining their academic standing. Institutions should also support the logistical needs associated with taking leave, such as adjusting tuition plans or financial aid to alleviate additional stress during this period.

Furthermore, developing a reintegration plan tailored to the student’s needs is vital, ensuring a smooth transition back into their studies. This plan may include academic advising, mental health resources, or additional accommodations to help the student adjust and thrive upon return.

Regular Check-Ins

Schools may also want to consider assigning a trained staff member to regularly check in with the student and any relevant parties to provide continuous support throughout the leave and reintegration process. Schools should conduct these check-ins with empathy and professionalism, offering a safe space for students to express concerns or share updates.

Based on these interactions, adjust supportive measures as necessary to ensure they remain effective and aligned with the student’s evolving needs. Encouraging open and honest communication is vital in building trust and ensuring that students feel acknowledged, valued, and supported during this important period.

Community Awareness Initiatives

Promoting educational programs on consent, harassment, and Title IX protections is essential to creating a safer and more inclusive campus environment. These programs should aim to increase understanding of personal boundaries, empower individuals to speak up against misconduct and provide clear guidance on the rights and responsibilities of all community members under Title IX.

Encouraging a culture of respect and accountability is vital in preventing future incidents, and institutions can take proactive steps to foster open dialogue and mutual understanding. Additionally, schools should prominently display information about supportive measures and Title IX resources across campus, ensuring that students and staff know where to turn for help and guidance when they need it.

Schools can take several supportive measures in a Title IX case and have a legal and moral obligation to do so. Don’t let these incidents go unaddressed. Reach out for help if your school or university isn’t providing you with the necessary accommodations you need to feel safe.

Our Title IX lawyers specialize in fighting for the rights of students and faculty who have experienced discrimination or harassment on campus. We understand the complexities of Title IX and know how to navigate the legal process to protect your legal rights and physical and emotional safety.