School Board updates Title IX policy for pregnant students and addresses marriage clause

A significant discussion emerged during the recent Policy Committee Meeting in Pennsylvania regarding the inclusion of marriage in Title IX policies related to pregnancy. One committee member expressed confusion over why marriage was part of the policy, questioning its relevance since marriage itself is not a medical condition. "I love the policy... but I didn't know why marriage was in there," they stated, highlighting a concern that the inclusion reflects outdated thinking.

The committee also reviewed extensive updates to the policy, which now mandates that school employees provide contact information for the Title IX coordinator when a student is pregnant or facing related conditions. This coordinator will work with the student to ensure they receive reasonable modifications for equal access to educational programs and services.

The discussion concluded with a clear consensus on the need to remove the mention of marriage from the policy, signaling a shift towards more modern and inclusive practices in addressing the needs of pregnant students. The committee's commitment to updating these policies reflects a broader effort to ensure that educational environments are supportive and equitable for all students.