Academic Accommodations for Title IX
Who determines a student’s need for special academic support?
The need for special academic support is typi cally determined by the Title IX coordinator. When a student requires special academic support, the Title IX coordinator will reach out to begin the process. An assessment will have already been made that warrants this type of support for the student.
What information is shared regarding why the student needs support?
Given the sensitive nature of such issues, the privacy of the student is paramount, so limited information may be provided to faculty or staff. It is possible that the student is:
- Participating in a criminal justice process or institutional process, such as a student conduct matter or investigation, which interferes with their coursework or classes
- Engaged in safety planning, such as relocating or attending protection order hearings
- Experiencing the immediate impacts of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking
What types of accommodations should I be prepared to consider?
Because of the different ways in which courses are structured, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to developing a plan for accommodations. The faculty member and student are the experts about what will be functional and fair for a particular course. A student who has accommodations will still be expected to complete all of the course requirements, but the consideration should be in identifying any options for affording that student some flexibility and support. Some typical accommodation strategies include:
- Rescheduling exams and assignments
- Providing alternative course completion options
- Changing class schedule, including the ability to transfer course sections or withdraw from a course without penalty
- Changing work schedule or job assignment
What if the request does not seem reasonable or consistent with the course expectations?
Similar to disability accommodations, if a request for an exception is not reasonable, then other options should be explored. Staff or faculty should discuss their concerns with the office that contacted them about the special academic support. The Title IX coordinator can also provide consultation as needed.
What about students who have been accused of inappropriate conduct?
Special academic support may also be provided to accused students while they are engaged in an institutional process, such as a student conduct investigation.
How does this differ from the disability accommodation process for students?
Students experiencing effects from sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking may not have a medical condition that allows them to receive disability accommodations; however, they may still be eligible to receive special academic support. If the student does have a disability that requires accommodations, then the disability accommodation process is the primary method for students to seek accommodations.
