Jun 29, 2023
Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in any educational institution and can be quite a tricky topic in faith-based schools. Today’s episode shares a recent webinar on this topic. In this webinar Brittany Gates, Title IX and Equity Specialist at ICS, shares her experience as a Title IX Coordinator at a faith-based school, exactly what Title IX is, how to claim a religious exemption under Title IX, and why defined religious values are imperative in these instances. We also discuss code of conduct behaviors in these types of schools, how a safe and healthy culture can be built, why Title IX discipline and school discipline are separate matters, and so much more. We even delve into sexual harassment reporting barriers and how to remove them before Brittany tells us how amnesty policies can assist in that, how to create effective prevention programming in faith-based schools, and why communication is key. Finally, we discuss the importance of having a good mindset, taking charge of what you can control, and being kind and supportive in these situations. You don’t want to miss out, so tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
Introducing the hosts of today’s webinar, Brittany Gates and Betsy Smith.
A brief overview of Brittany’s background in faith-based schools.
What Title IX is and who is exempt from certain aspects of it.
The ways a school can demonstrate that they are controlled by a religious organization.
How to be assured that your exemption applies.
The importance of knowing the religious values that guide faith-based schools.
How inconsistent code of conduct behaviors could overlap with Title IX.
How to build a safe and healthy culture to respond to Title IX matters in faith-based schools.
Why the school’s discipline process cannot be used outside of Title IX.
Sexual harassment reporting barriers in faith-based schools and how to remove them.
How to optimize amnesty policies so they can assist in removing reporting barriers.
The importance of open communication and how to demystify it in faith-based schools.
How to have healthy conversations on the topic of sex and sexuality.
What building a healthy culture in faith-based campuses looks like.
Areas to consider for effective prevention programming: consent, bystander intervention, and being open about your policy.
The importance of having a good mindset and not getting boxed-in, in the rules.
The things you can be responsible for outside the realm of the schools’ rules.
Why you have to be kind, clear, and offer support.
Why you should consider employee amnesty in faith-based schools.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Higher Ed Virtual Certified IX Training