Office for Civil Rights
Title IX & Sex-Based Discrimination
Protection from Sex-Based Discrimination & Harassment
Title IX is a federal civil rights law that protects students from discrimination based on sex in education. These protections include sex-based harassment and other conduct that may interfere with a student's ability to participate in or benefit from school programs, activities, and educational opportunities.
Portland Public Schools is committed to providing learning environments that are safe, supportive, and free from sex discrimination and sex-based harassment. Students and families can report concerns, request support, and learn about the options available when a concern arises.
PPS responds to reported concerns by considering student safety and support needs, reviewing the circumstances, and determining the appropriate response under district procedures and applicable civil rights protections.
Understanding Title IX
What Title IX Protects
Title IX protects students from sex-based discrimination and harassment in education. Examples of concerns that may fall under Title IX include:
Discrimination
Sex-Based Discrimination
Discrimination or unequal treatment based on sex.
Harassment
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment that affects a student's educational experience.
Sexual Misconduct
Sexual Assault & Misconduct
Sexual assault or other sexual misconduct.
Bullying
Sex-Based Bullying
Bullying or harassment directed at a student based on sex.
Equal Access
Classes, Athletics & Activities
Unequal access to classes, athletics, clubs, programs, or activities based on sex.
Protection
Retaliation
Retaliation for reporting discrimination or supporting someone who makes a report.
Not sure whether Title IX applies? You do not need to determine that before asking for help. Students and families can report a concern or contact the Office for Civil Rights to discuss available support and appropriate next steps.
What Happens Next
When a Title IX Concern Is Reported
When a concern involving possible sex discrimination or sex-based harassment is reported, PPS reviews the circumstances, considers the needs of the people involved, and determines the appropriate response and support.
1
A Concern Is Reported
A student, family member, staff member, or other person shares a concern involving possible sex discrimination or sex-based harassment.
2
Needs & Supports Are Considered
PPS considers the circumstances and the needs of the student, including supports that may help maintain access to education and school activities.
3
The Appropriate Process Is Determined
The concern is reviewed to determine whether a formal Title IX process or another district response is appropriate.
4
Response & Follow-Up
PPS follows the appropriate process, communicates with the people involved, and identifies supports and next steps based on the circumstances.
Support During the Process
Supportive Measures
Supportive measures are individualized steps that can help students continue accessing their education and school activities while a concern is being addressed. The supports provided depend on the circumstances and needs of the student.
- Academic access
- Student schedules or activities
- Counseling or student support services
- Safety planning
- School-based supports
- Disability-related accommodations
- Other measures supporting educational access and student well-being
Not every report follows the same path. Some reports may lead to a formal Title IX complaint and investigation, while others may be addressed through other district procedures, restorative responses, or school-based interventions.
Understanding Your Options
Understanding the Title IX Process
Depending on the circumstances, a reported concern may be addressed through a formal Title IX process or through another appropriate district response. The Office for Civil Rights can help students and families understand the process, available options, and what to expect.
Formal Process
Formal Complaints & Investigations
When a formal Title IX process is appropriate, the district follows established procedures for reviewing the concern, gathering relevant information, and communicating with the people involved throughout the process.
Privacy
Privacy & Confidentiality
Information is shared only as necessary to respond to the concern, provide support, follow district procedures, and meet legal obligations. Complete confidentiality cannot always be guaranteed.
Protection
Protection from Retaliation
Retaliation is prohibited against anyone who reports a concern, participates in a Title IX process, or supports someone involved in a report or investigation.
Questions about which process applies can be directed to the Office for Civil Rights using the contact information at the top of this page.
Get Help & Learn More
Reporting & Resources
Students and families can report concerns, ask questions, and learn more about PPS procedures and resources related to sex discrimination and sex-based harassment.
Need Help?
Report a Title IX Concern
If you believe a student may have experienced sex discrimination, sexual harassment, or other conduct that may fall under Title IX, you can report the concern to PPS. You do not need to determine which policy or process applies before asking for help.
PPS Leveled Response Framework
Learn how PPS determines an appropriate response to reports of discrimination and harassment.
→Not sure where to start? Talk with a trusted adult at your school or contact the Office for Civil Rights using the contact information at the top of this page.