What is Title IX?
“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any educational programs or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”
— Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits sex discrimination in education programs and activities. All public and private schools, school districts, colleges, and universities that receive federal funding must comply with Title IX.
Title IX protections apply to all aspects of education, including academics, athletics, extracurricular activities, and employment.
District Commitment
In accordance with Board Policy 2266 – Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in Education Programs or Activities, the District:
- Does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any education program or activity, including admission and employment
- Is committed to maintaining an environment free from sex discrimination, including sexual harassment
- Will respond promptly and equitably to all reports of sexual harassment
- Will take appropriate action to address and prevent prohibited conduct
What is Sexual Harassment?
Under District policy, sexual harassment is conduct based on sex that includes:
- Quid pro quo harassment (when participation in unwelcome sexual conduct is tied to a benefit or service)
- Unwelcome conduct that is severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive, denying equal access to education
- Sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking
These behaviors are prohibited within the District’s education programs and activities.
Reporting Concerns
The District encourages all members of the school community—including students, staff, families, volunteers, and visitors—to report concerns of sex discrimination or sexual harassment as soon as possible.
Reports may be made:
- In person
- By mail
- By phone
- By email
Reports can be submitted at any time and may be made by anyone, including individuals who are not the alleged victim.
All District employees who receive a report are required to notify a Title IX Coordinator.
Questions about Title IX or this policy may be directed to either Coordinator or to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights.
Investigation & Complaint Process
The District has established a grievance process to ensure the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints.
Key components include:
The ability to file a formal complaint of sex discrimination or sexual harassment
A fair and impartial investigation of all relevant evidence
Equal rights for both the complainant and respondent
Supportive measures offered to both parties (with or without a formal complaint)
A presumption that the respondent is not responsible until a determination is made
A typical resolution timeline of approximately 60 days (with allowable extensions for good cause)
Supportive measures may include counseling, schedule adjustments, academic support, or other services to ensure continued access to education.
Non-Retaliation
The District prohibits retaliation against any individual for:
Reporting discrimination or harassment
Participating in an investigation
Exercising rights under Title IX
Learn More
For full details, including definitions, reporting procedures, and the complete grievance process, please review:
Board Policy 2266 – Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in Education Programs or Activities
Title IX Coordinators
The Board designates and authorizes the following individual(s) to oversee and coordinate its efforts to comply with Title IX and its implementing regulations:
Director, Office of Exceptional Students
Megan McCaskey
mccaskeym@parmacityschools.org
6800 Commonwealth Blvd
Parma Heights, OH 44130
Director, Human Resources
C. Patrick Hoy
hoyc@parmacityschools.org
7377 Chateau Dr.
Parma, OH 44130
Title IX Presentation: https://youtu.be/ZqYeBhE8G6U
