Key takeaways:

• Title IX investigations are required even if criminal investigations are not
• Equal representation and opportunities are required for both parties during the investigation process (lawyer presence, appeals, etc.)
• Despite FERPA, sanction information can be provided to the victim 

Personally, I am relieved that Title IX exists and provides us with training, and steps to take if we encounter such issues. It takes the burden off of us, as concerned humans, and gives us the opportunity to help students (or other staff or faculty) quickly and appropriately. 

All students, online or on-campus are protected by Title IX and VAWA. In my role as an instructor, it is key that I am not only aware of potential discrimination or violence issues but also the proper handling of those in terms of reporting, confidentiality and student support. I work in an online-only environment but have had situations in which someone felt more empowered to make unwanted and inappropriate comments from their side of the keyboard.