Get Your Students Hired
What this unit made clear is that a Title IX violations can be multi-layered a complex. A clear and thoughtful review of the context(s), accusations, and implications of a violation is imperative before the investigation can move forward.
Even if an incident such as cyberstalking or harassment occurs off campus, if that incident affects the student's welfare or on-campus presence then it must also be investigated under title IX.
This module as well as my facilities policies on Title IX and VAWA have brought to my awareness the federally mandated nature of reporting these types of complaints. I will be more aware and make my students aware of the need to report information that they receive about sexual harassment and crimes of a sexual nature that are federally prohibited.
Regardless of if an act of cyberstalking occurred on campus or not, a school is obligated to investigate.
I learned that not all campus cases are reported to the police though do agree with a full investigation. I believe all instances of sexual misconduct should be reported to the police however, and would encourage so.
There is a difference in Title IX and VAWA as to jurisdiction in terms of locality of the violative act incurred.
Comment on Sheila Heinert's post: i completely agree with you. This course was very beneficial and an eye opener.
VAWA rules and jurisdiction can differ from Title IX policy . When in doubt, apply the more stringent of the two.
Having communication is key, as well as understanding that a person may file a criminal complaint which does not affect the Title IX or VAWA. It is important that the students and employees know that there are avenues to take and they do not just have to put up with unacceptable behavior.
The school MUST investigate any compliant that comes forward. All policies must be looked at and refined at all times.
Even though 60 days is considered the average time period to report, the report and investigation might be over that 60-day time frame. If that happens, so be it.
A Title IX case may not result in incarceration but will result in termination at the institute.
I found it interesting that a criminal complaint could have a different outcome then what an institution's outcome on their Title IX and VAWA findings.
Communication, teaching and understanding the policies is essential in understanding the polices and procedures that will help to guide practice.
It is important that Title IX Coordinators and other employees involved in Title IX grievance, investigation, and/or disciplinary procedures understand the difference between an institutional Title IX investigation and a criminal proceeding.
It is very important to investigate any complaint whether it is on or off campus or whether or not it was reported to the police if the coordinator has knowledge of the incident.