Protections Under Title IX

Most people know that Title IX prevents discrimination toward girls and women in athletic programs that receive federal funds. But it also ensures gender equity in the following areas:

Access to Higher Education—Before Title IX, many colleges and universities refused to admit women. Those schools now must provide equal consideration to both sexes in admissions and financial aid.

Career and Technical Education—Title IX states that schools must treat male and female students equally in offering career and vocational education classes. Career and guidance counselors cannot discourage either sex from pursuing a career based on outdated ideas about what might be suitable.

Pregnancy and Parenting—Under the law, pregnant students cannot be barred from classes or school-sponsored activities. Although schools can set up separate programs designed specifically for pregnant and parenting students, they must be voluntary and offer opportunities equal to those in the regular school program.

Employment—Teachers and administrators at the primary, secondary and college levels are protected against sex discrimination in hiring, promotion and salary considerations.

Learning Environment—The law mandates that, in most cases, the learning environment be accessible and supportive to both sexes. Single-sex programs must follow specific guidelines that do not provide unequal educational opportunities or perpetuate stereotypes about the interests or abilities of either sex.

Math and Science—According to the law, girls and women must be allowed and encouraged to take upper-level math and science courses that can lead to high-skilled, higher-paying careers.

Sexual Harassment—Students are protected against sexual harassment by teachers, staff members and their fellow students through a set of grievance procedures.

Standardized Testing—Scores on standardized tests often are affected by the types of questions that are asked. Title IX requires that tests be designed and used in a way that is free of gender bias.

Technology—The law requires equal access to computers and other technology for both genders.

In addition, each school is required to have a trained Title IX Coordinator to enforce all aspects of the law.