Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of a student’s “actual or potential” parental, family, or marital status or “pregnancy, childbirth, termination of pregnancy, or recovery therefrom.” Generally speaking, this means that schools must give all students who might be, are, or have been pregnant (whether currently parenting or not) equal access to school programs and extracurricular activities. For the most part, compliance entails simply treating pregnant and parenting students in the same way that schools treat other students who are similarly able or unable to participate in school activities. Title IX also requires schools to prevent and address sex-based harassment, which includes harassment based on pregnancy. In addition to offering general protection, Title IX regulations detail how the law applies to a range of specific activities and policies that affect pregnant and parenting students. These regulations govern activities both in and outside of the classroom.
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Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to reasonable accommodations under Title IX and/or the Americans with Disabilities Act. Pregnant students are offered services and accommodations similar to those offered to other students who have a temporary medical condition. If you experience complications or other medical conditions related to your pregnancy, you can seek support and accommodations through the Office of Equity & Title IX and the Office of Accommodation & Inclusion. These offices will work with you to develop a plan around your pregnancy. Reasonable accommodations will be identified on an individual basis and where they do not pose an undue hardship.
You Can Do It!
Stay in school and meet your education and career goals.
- Stay in school and attend regular classes
Coordinate parenting responsibilities (postpartum and child medical appointments, lactation time and spaces, etc.) for birthing and non-birthing parents.
Create a plan to progress toward a degree despite absence due to childbirth
Coordinate healthcare provider’s recommendations with academic requirements
Access services like those provided to other students with temporary medical conditions
Maintain eligibility to participate in academic and extracurricular programs and activities
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