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. This means that the 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. Thus, the College is obligated to provide the following academic adjustments, accommodations, and support:
- Absences due to pregnancy or any related conditions must be excused for as long as the student’s doctors say it is necessary for her to be absent. When the student returns to school, she must be reinstated to the status she held before her leave.
- Faculty who base grades on class attendance cannot penalize a pregnant student for her absence and must allow the student to earn back the credit from the classes missed.
- Students must be given the opportunity to make up the work they miss while absent from class due to pregnancy or any related conditions, including bed rest or recovery from childbirth.
- With medical documentation, students may be provided with a larger classroom desk, access to a designated lactation space, or allowed frequent trips to the restroom.
- Students who are pregnant or dealing with any pregnancy-related conditions must be permitted to continue their off-campus work, including internships and career rotations. The College cannot require a doctor to approve the continuation of these activities unless a note is required of all students with a medical condition.
- To request accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth and recovery, please contact Mark Haines, Title IX Coordinator mhaines@germanna.edu.
These rules supersede any department or instructor-based policies regarding allowable numbers of absences or ability to make up missed work.
Any student, faculty member or Dean who needs information or assistance with arranging academic adjustments or other support should contact the Title IX Coordinator at mhaines@germanna.edu or (540) 891-3026.
Breastfeeding and Lactation Space
Private breastfeeding and lactation space is available for Germanna students, faculty, and staff, but you must make an appointment in advance; walk-ins are not available. To arrange for time in a lactation space, please contact Mark Haines, Title IX Coordinator mhaines@germanna.edu