Pregnant Student Rights under Title IX

Overview
This information is provided both to inform and remind the College community of the institution’s obligation not to discriminate against students on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions.

East Central College does not discriminate against persons on the basis of sex in its educational programs and activities.  Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex—including pregnancy and related conditions—in educational programs and activities that are eligible for federal funding.

The U.S. Department of Education regulations concerning pregnancy and related conditions provide that a college that is a recipient of federal funding shall not discriminate against any student on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, or recovery from these conditions.  In the event that the educational institution does not maintain a leave policy for its students (as in the case of ECC), or in the event that a student does not otherwise qualify for an institutional leave under the policy, the institution is required to treat such conditions as justification for a leave of absence for so long a period of time as is deemed medically necessary by the student’s physician.

This means that East Central College must give all students who might be, are, or have been pregnant the same access to school programs and educational opportunities that other students have.  Absences due to medical conditions relating to pregnancy must be excused for as long as medically necessary.  The student must be given the opportunity to make up missed work, with the goal of having the student graduate on time if possible, and if desired by the student.  These rules supersede any classroom-based attendance policy/practices regarding allowable numbers of absences.

Faculty, staff, and administrators should not tell students that they have to drop or withdraw from their classes or programs or change their educational plans due to their pregnancies or related conditions.  In light of this legal requirement, it is critical that faculty and staff who deal with students are knowledgeable about their obligations to students in this situation.

Assistance for Pregnant Students

For medically excused absences, pregnant students should contact the VP of Student Development. For further assistance and information call (636) 584-6565.

For accommodations, pregnant students should contact the Director of Advising & Counseling at (636) 584-6581.

NOTE: The pregnant student must request any adjustments they are seeking for absences due to medical necessity related to their pregnancy. Pregnant students are encouraged to seek assistance for excused absences or accommodations as quickly as possible.  It is anticipated and expected that pregnant students will act proactively in communicating the situation with their instructor(s) and if excused time is needed, with the VP of Student Development.  Some options and accommodations cannot be retroactively applied.  Pregnant students seeking adjustments and assistance as the medical situation arises will have better options than those notifying the College after the situation is over.  Excused absences under Title IX do not follow the same definitions as employment processes such as the FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) or maternity leave.

Contact the VP of Student Development at (636) 584-6565.

Grievance Process for Pregnant Students
Pregnant students who wish to voice their concern or file a complaint should contact the VP of Student Development. For further assistance and information call at (636) 584-6565 or file a complaint at www.eastcentral.edu/studentconcern.