The first six weeks of the school year create a crucial opportunity for Title IX professionals, especially when introducing new policy. Title IX teams must establish a foundation for compliance and foster a safe educational environment, all while addressing the evolving state-level protests against new regulations.

At least 21 states blocked the updated rulings, leading to confusion for Title IX teams about how to proceed for the fall. In most of these lawsuits, the argument against implementing the regulations express issue with the definition of “sex discrimination” to include gender identity and argue that schools will be forced to defy their beliefs by expanding the rights of transgender and nonbinary students. Coordinators in these states must stay informed about both federal and state developments while providing clear guidance to their campus communities. 

Here’s a roadmap for Title IX Coordinators to tackle this critical period.

Policy Review and Updates

Title IX practitioners likely spent the summer updating their policies to reflect the finalized regulations. After ensuring compliance and making these necessary updates, the next important step is communicating those changes to the campus community.

Administrators working in states where the rulings are currently on hold, face a unique challenge, as they must wait for further legal direction before implementing new regulations. For these professionals, their expectations about implementing these revisions may also be on hold. We recommend working with the institution’s legal counsel about obligations to revise or not revise the institution’s policies. 

Training and Education Programs

When communicating new changes, administrators must require mandatory training sessions for faculty,  and staff on Title IX policies, reporting procedures, and resources available. Updating students on Title IX annually is always a good idea, regardless of whether you are implementing changes or not. 

Specialized training is recommended for students or staff with a specific connection to students such as Resident Assistants, athletic coaches, and Greek life leaders and advisors. These training sessions should be planned and completed as soon as possible, so the campus community is prepared to respond to reports, prevent sexual misconduct, and support students and staff.

Professionals in states where court injunctions exist may experience varying levels of acceptance and understanding of Title IX policies within their campus communities. Tailor training sessions to address concerns and emphasize the importance of compliance and safety.

Build a Support Network

In order for Title IX compliance to resonate as an institution-wide goal, partnerships are essential. Coordinators should communicate, strategize, and seek buy-in from offices like counseling services, campus security, and local law enforcement to provide comprehensive support. Engaging with student leaders, like student government, fraternities and sororities, and other influential groups will also help promote awareness and create a supportive environment.

Nurturing these partnerships will also ensure that students, faculty, and staff know how to contact the Title IX office and feel comfortable doing so, while also sharing their feedback on the Title IX process, so adjustments can be made accordingly.

For schools in states that are challenging the regulations, the political climate can affect the willingness of external partners to collaborate. Reinforce the institution’s dedication to supporting all students regardless of external pressures.

How We Can Help

Despite the current legal challenges, the first six weeks of the fall semester are a critical period for Title IX Coordinators to establish a robust foundation for the academic year. By focusing on policy updates, training, awareness, and support networks, Coordinators can effectively navigate the challenges posed by state legal challenges and emphasize compliance and safety for everyone. In an environment where legal challenges against Title IX regulations are increasingly common, proactive measures are essential.

For up-to-date information on all Title IX changes and how they affect you and your institution, join us for Title IX Thursdays on the first Thursday of every month.

To prepare your entire Title IX team, see our K12 Training Series or reach out to us directly for customized training solutions.

For more information about our Title IX consulting services, including advising, hearing adjudication, and investigation, contact us at [email protected].