Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex—including pregnancy and parental status—in educational programs and activities that receive Federal financial assistance from the Department of Education. The term pregnancy is used to include childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, or recovery from any of these conditions.
In regard to supporting pregnant students, institutions are required under Title IX to
- Excuse a student's absences because of pregnancy or childbirth for as long as deemed medically necessary.
- Afford the same protections to pregnant students as students who have temporary medical conditions.
- Make reasonable and responsive adjustments.
- Allow a student to continue participating in classes and extracurricular activities.
- Allow a student to return from their leave to the same academic status as before their leave.
- Offer the student options for how to make up the work missed.
Common Accommodations
- Seating assignment near the door (easier to access bathroom)
- Ability to sit, rather than stand (especially in lab or similar environments)
- Larger desk
- Extended breaks or exam time (to allow for eating food to control nausea, to use the bathroom, etc.)
- Assistance of a note taker to assist with exams (pregnant women more likely to have carpal tunnel)
- Distance learning or teleworking for students on bedrest
- Revised schedules for meetings or group activities
- Parking space closer to classes
- Other options as needed, depending on individualized needs
If you are in need of Pregnant or Parenting Accommodations, please contact your college campus Title IX Coordinator.
Lactation Rooms
All colleges and the District Administrative Center offer a number of spaces on campus to support student and employee parents with their breast, chest, or body-feeding needs. If you have questions about accessing the these spaces or are in need of additional accommodation, please contact your college Title IX Coordinator.