Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) strive to maintain an educational environment, for students and staff, that is free from sexual harassment and other unlawful forms of harassment. All forms of harassment against students based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, military status, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law or based on a belief that such characteristic exists, at school or any school sponsored activity is strictly prohibited.
FCPS adheres to Title IX, which is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in all our school programs and activities. This includes preventing and addressing harassment and retaliation.
Harassment based on sex can take many forms. It's not just about unwanted sexual advances, though that's certainly included. It can also be any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to our education program or activities. This includes things like sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. It can be verbal, nonverbal, or physical. FCPS is committed to stopping such behavior and addressing its effects.
Retaliation is when someone takes negative action against you because you reported harassment, participated in an investigation, or exercised your rights under Title IX. This is strictly prohibited and is a serious violation itself. We want you to feel comfortable coming forward without fear of unfair treatment.
If you or someone you know experiences harassment or retaliation, please report it immediately by contacting our Title IX Coordinators at TitleIXCoordinator@fcpsk12.net. You can also report it to any trusted adult at the school, like a teacher, counselor, or administrator.
FCPS is here to support students and staff. All reports of harassment and retaliation will be investigated promptly and fairly pursuant to FCPS Policy 429P, Students - Prohibition Against Harassment and Retaliation and FCPS Policy 506P, Personnel - Prohibition Against Harassment and Retaliation. Supportive measures will be provided to ensure your safety and well-being, and appropriate action will be taken to stop any harassment and prevent it from happening again. FCPS is committed to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
For additional information, please see the following:
- Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
- 34 C.F.R., part 106 et seq.
- Virginia Code ยงยง 2.2-3900 et seq.
- FCPS Website re: Title IX
- FCPS Policy 217P, Administration - Non-Discrimination
- FCPS Regulation 402R-A, Students - Code of Student Conduct
- FCPS Policy 403P, Students - Equal Education Opportunity/Non-Discrimination
- FCPS Policy 504P, Personnel - Equal Employment Opportunity/Non-Discrimination