Who can file a Formal Title IX Complaint?
Formal complaints of sex discrimination and sex-based harassment may only be brought by a student, former student, a parent/guardian or other authorized legal representative.
Employees or former employees can also file a formal complaint on their own behalf if they have experienced sex discrimination and/or sex-based harassment.
Can I file anonymously?
Formal Title IX Complaints cannot be filed anonymously. However, you can still report an anonymous concern through our Ethicspoint Reporting System.
Employee Reporting Requirements vs. Formal Complaints?
An employee who receives a report or observes an incident of sex discrimination, including sex-based harassment, by or against a student in the District’s education program or activity shall report the incident to the Title IX Coordinator within one workday. AR 5145.7
This reporting requirement is not the same as filing a formal complaint. The targeted individual has the right and autonomy to decide whether they want to file a formal complaint based on what they experienced.
If you are an employee who wants to make a report, please follow the directions on the staff page.
What conduct is covered by Title IX?
Not all sexual harassment and sexual misconduct is governed by the Title IX policies and regulations. This does not mean the conduct is not serious and will not be addressed promptly, thoroughly, and appropriately. All forms of misconduct that violate District policy will be investigated and may be addressed through a form of student or employee discipline.
Title IX sexual discrimination and sex-based harassment is explicitly defined by the federal regulations. Please consult our definitions page with further details.
What happens after I file a Formal Title IX Complaint?
The Title IX Officer will review the factual basis for the allegations and determine whether, if proven, the allegations would be a violation of the District Title IX policy. If so, the complaint will be addressed in accordance with the Title IX Complaint Procedures in AR 5145.71.
If the alleged misconduct does not constitute Title IX sex discrimination or sex-based harassment, the complaint will be “dismissed” and addressed through other District policies and procedures. The Title IX Officer or another member of the ICA team will follow up with you to discuss next steps.
What can immediately be done to ensure my safety and wellbeing?
Whether a formal complaint is filed or not, the Title IX Officer or designee will offer and coordinate supportive measures. Supportive measures are designed to protect the safety of the complainant, respondent, and the District’s educational environment. However, the measures cannot be punitive or disciplinary in nature. No disciplinary measures may be imposed until a final determination is made after a Title IX investigation or the complaint is resolved through an informal resolution.
Title IX Complaint Procedures – Investigations & Informal Resolutions
Informal Resolutions – At any time prior to the determination of responsibility, the District may offer an informal resolution, if appropriate. The resolution is a voluntary agreement between the complainant, respondent, and the District. The terms of the agreement must be agreed upon by all three parties. Ultimately, the District’s priority is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students, staff, and educational environment.
The District may decline to offer an informal resolution in situations where the alleged conduct would present a future risk of harm to others. The District will not offer an informal resolution agreement if the complainant alleges an employee engaged in sex-based harassment of an elementary or secondary school student.
Investigation Procedures – Upon the determination that the formal complaint, if proven, would constitute a violation of Title IX, the following steps will occur:
1. Notice Of Allegations will be provided to both parties that includes the identity of the parties involved in the incidents and the alleged conduct, sufficient to allow the parties to respond to the allegations.
The regulations require the disclosure of the identity of the parties involved. We understand that complainants may not want to be identified due to fear of retaliation or continued harassment. If you have questions or concerns, you can speak with the Title IX Officer prior to the Notice of Allegations. Our team is trauma-informed and understands sensitive nature of these incidents. Do not hesitate to reach out and we can provide support and guidance even if a formal investigation does not occur.
2. Investigation – The case will be assigned to a Title IX certified Internal Investigator with the ICA office. Both parties will have an equal opportunity to present evidence on their behalf. Both parties will also have an opportunity to review the relevant evidence gathered at the conclusion of the investigation and both parties will have an opportunity to respond to the evidence.
3. Written Decision – Following the investigation and evaluation of all relevant evidence, the decisionmaker will determine the responsibility for the alleged conduct using the preponderance of evidence standard of proof. Both parties will be notified in writing of the determination, which will include the rationale for the determination.
4. Appeal of the Decision – Either party has a right to appeal the District’s decision.
The investigation may take up to 60 days and can also be extended for good cause. Due to the complex nature of these cases and the procedural requirements, the investigation and decision often take the full 60 days.