9 Things Students Should Know About Title IX

  1. Title IX is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits sex discrimination in education. Title IX is not just about athletics. It also addresses sexual violence, rape, sexual assault, harassment, domestic violence, and some forms of stalking.
  2. Title IX does not apply only to female students. Male and gender non-conforming students are also protected.
  3. Schools must be proactive and ensure that campuses are free of sex discrimination. They cannot simply wait for something to go wrong. St. Cloud State University encourages reporting any possible violations of Title IX as soon as possible after an incident.
  4. Schools must have established procedures to handle complaints of sex discrimination, harassment, and violence. St. Cloud State University's procedures include filing a complaint, initial review, investigation, and a decision.
  5. Schools must take immediate action to ensure that a survivor can continue their education safely. St. Cloud State University may implement interim measures during a Title IX investigation to ensure safety and provide due process. These may include, but are not limited to, student, organization, or club contact directives; residential accommodations; and academic modifications.
  6. Schools must not retaliate, or allow retaliation, against a person who reports or experiences violence. St. Cloud State University prohibits retaliation and reprisal.
  7. Schools can issue a no-contact directive to prevent a student from interacting with you. This functions similarly to a campus restraining order.
  8. In cases of sexual violence, schools are prohibited from encouraging or allowing informal mediation; instead, a formal hearing process should occur when appropriate. St. Cloud State University recommends following established campus procedures through the Office for Institutional Equity and Access and the Division of Student Affairs.
  9. Schools cannot discourage you from continuing your education. You have the right to remain on campus and to access all educational and program opportunities available under Title IX.