Title IX Claims in High School

Protecting Young Students from Allegations of Sex-Based Discrimination

Among all the challenges high school brings – from finding your social group, to thinking about college or future plans, to juggling extracurricular activities – discrimination is one that students are most affected by and least prepared for. And, unfortunately, it’s an issue that can be caused by any person in the school, not exclusively the students. While Title IX prevents many of these cases, it can also be the basis of false accusations with harmful repercussions.

Title IX is designed to protect students from sex-based violence, harassment, or discrimination. According to Title IX – Public Law 92-318 of the Education Amendments of 1972:

“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

In high school, these behaviors could be performed by classmates, significant others, parents or guardians, teachers or faculty, and other adults.

Title IX-defiant behaviors in high school include:

Stalking or excessive following and inquisition about someone’s whereabouts
Pressuring or forcing someone to perform sexual acts
Verbally or physically threatening someone
Sharing nude photos or touching someone without their permission
Sending unsolicited messages
Making repeated sexual comments about someone to them or others, in person or over social media
Physically harming someone

These cases are taken incredibly seriously and render a need for competent defense. A Title IX accusation could lead to disciplinary ramifications that could affect their current education, college acceptances, scholarships, and more.