Key Players during the Title IX Process

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Coordinates Title IX compliance and training.  Conducts an Intake meeting with the Complainant.  Offers supportive measures to Complainant & Respondent.  Determines if mandatory dismissals and if there are jurisdictional limitations. Evaluates the need for emergency removals. Explores informal resolutions. Assigns investigators.  Ensures that notices are delivered in a timely manner to both parties.  Considers permissive dismissal of a complaint.

The investigator(s) Should be trained,  knowledgeable, and unbiased.  Investigates the formal complaint.   Interviews Complainant, Respondent and witnesses. Assesses relevance and credibility of the information gathered. Coordinates review processes.  Prepares a written investigative report and compiles evidence for the decision maker.  

Reviews final investigative report.  Makes conclusions about whether the alleged conduct occurred and the decision about responsibility.  Prepares written determination with findings of fact, conclusions, and rationale related to the allegation(s).  If applicable, recommends sanctions for Respondent and remedies for Complainant.

 Provides written notice of right to appeal to both parties based on the grounds for appeal under the current regulations. If an appeal is filed, the Appeal Officer evaluates the appeal request to determine if it is within the scope of appeal – Provides a written Notice of Appeal to both parties.  Reviews written statements and arguments from the parties.  Renders a written decision on appeal with an explanation.  Provides the written decision to parties....preferably at the same time. Appeals can be sustained if there was a  procedural irregularity, new evidence was presented, or a conflict of interest within the Title IX team. 

Both parties are allowed to have an advisor throughout the process.  The advisor can be a friend, parent, minister, counselor, attorney etc..  The advisor cannot be a member of the Title IX team.   The advisor’s role is to support, guide, and advocate for the Complainant or Respondent during the process.  In K–12, the advisor acts as a support person and representative, ensuring the student understands the process. In K-12, if a student does not have an advisor, an advisor should be recommended at no cost to the student or family.