An investigation by the US Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights has revealed Title IX violations in the Owasso Public School District in Oklahoma. The investigation was prompted by the tragic suicide of a nonbinary student last February, which raised concerns about the district's handling of sexual harassment complaints.
The investigation found that the district had repeatedly failed to respond appropriately to reports of sexual harassment, with responses that were described as 'deliberately indifferent to students' civil rights.' Title IX, a federal law enacted in 1972, prohibits discrimination based on sex in federally funded education programs.
The probe began following the death of the nonbinary teen, Nex Benedict, who passed away after a fight with other students in a school bathroom. Benedict had reported being bullied by the other students prior to the altercation. The Human Rights Campaign filed a formal complaint, leading to the OCR investigation into the district's handling of harassment allegations.
The investigation uncovered a pattern of inadequate responses to sexual harassment complaints, including instances where the district failed to conduct proper investigations or take necessary actions under Title IX. Reports indicated that Benedict had been targeted for their sex or gender, highlighting a broader issue of bullying and abuse within the school environment.
Furthermore, the district was found to have mishandled other cases of sexual harassment, such as a teacher grooming students on social media and a young elementary school student facing inappropriate remarks.
As part of the resolution with the DOE, the school district has agreed to implement new policies, procedures, and training programs to address the violations and enhance safety and inclusivity in schools. Superintendent Margaret Coates expressed the district's commitment to complying with Title IX regulations and ensuring a safe environment for all students.
