Furman University is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for pregnant and parenting students.
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities including academic, educational, extracurricular, athletic, and other programs or activities of schools. This prohibition includes discrimination against pregnant and parenting students. Students may request reasonable accommodations necessary due to the student’s pregnancy.
What Types of Accommodations May I Request?
Specific accommodations will vary from student to student. Examples of accommodations may include:
- a larger chair or desk
- breaks during class, as reasonably needed
- rescheduling tests or exams
- excusing absences due to pregnancy or related conditions
- submitting work after a deadline missed due to pregnancy or childbirth
- providing alternatives to make up missed work
How Do I Request Accommodations?
Accommodation requests should be directed to SOAR. SOAR will discuss the pregnant student’s individual needs and may ask for documentation that supports the requested accommodations. Students with complaints regarding adequacy or denial of accommodations may file a complaint with the SOAR office or pursue a grievance with the Title IX and Section 504/ADA Coordinator.
How Do I Report Harassment or Discrimination Due to Pregnancy?
Furman University prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of sex. Pregnant or parenting students who believe they have been discriminated against or harassed because of a qualifying condition may file a complaint with the Title IX Coordinator. Complaints of discrimination or harassment will be processed pursuant to the process set forth in Furman’s Sexual Misconduct Policy. Additional information regarding the rights of pregnant students and how best to support pregnant students can be found on this Department of Education [PDF].