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Pregnant and Parenting

Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, which includes discrimination on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery, and other similar and related conditions. Consistent with its mission and convictions, St. Thomas is committed to upholding the dignity and well-being of all persons. Students who are pregnant are encouraged to seek out information about support and resources by contacting the Title IX Coordinator. The University is committed to supporting pregnant students by providing accurate information about options and resources and working with them to support their academic goals.

Students who believe they may be experiencing harassment or discrimination on the basis of pregnancy or related conditions should contact the Title IX Coordinator to report those concerns.

Applications of Title IX on Pregnancy

Expectations under Title IX regarding pregnancy are generally as follows:

  1. Treat absences due to pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions as excused absences if a doctor says the absences are necessary.
  2. Once a student returns to St. Thomas following an absence due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions, the University must make efforts to return the student to the same academic and extracurricular status as that held by the student prior to the absence, including the opportunity to make up any work missed while absent.
  3. Students must be given the opportunity to earn points missed (participation, pop quizzes, and missed assignments) due to pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions.
  4. A student cannot be required to take a leave of absence or withdraw from their studies due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions.
  5. The University is not required to make modifications to the essential elements of any course or academic program or otherwise change educational or course requirements.