Title IX
Title IX
Florida Poly is committed to providing a learning and working environment free from sex discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence. In compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, we uphold the rights of all students, faculty, and staff to pursue their education and work in a safe and respectful environment. This page outlines your rights, available resources, and how to report concerns related to Title IX.
“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” – Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 to the 1964 Civil Rights Act
The university is working toward fostering a climate free from sexual misconduct through training, education, prevention programs, and through policies and procedures that encourage prompt reporting, prohibit retaliation, and promote timely, fair and impartial investigation and resolution of sexual misconduct cases in a manner that eliminates the sexual misconduct, prevents its recurrence and addresses its effects.
The university’s Sexual Misconduct Policy is consistent with federal law in prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Submitting a Report
The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for monitoring compliance with regulations and is responsible for receiving complaints of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, intimate partner (domestic/dating) violence, stalking or other sexual misconduct incidents.
Title IX Coordinator
Michelle Disson
863-874-8484
titleixcoordinator@floridapoly.edu
Residence Hall, Phase III, Room 1011
4700 Research Way
Lakeland, FL 33805
Procedures
Upon notice of a report, the office will follow a set of procedures.
Report Received
- The Title IX coordinator will reach out to the individual affected via email.
- Email will provide resources, information, and request a meeting.
- The meeting will go over resources, options of reporting and resolution, process, and medical attention if needed.
- Facilitate supportive measures when needed and appropriate (including but not limited to: academic assistance, withdrawal, No Contact Orders, housing assistance, working assistance, safe ride/safe walk)
- Take immediate and appropriate steps to investigate or otherwise determine what occurred.
Note: The reporter may not receive updated information after the report is made to maintain confidentiality.
Investigation Options
The person who has experienced the misconduct has the option (in most cases) to have the University investigate or not.
- University Grievance Process provides options for the individual affected to either not move forward with a formal process or to file a formal complaint resulting in either an informal resolution or a formal investigation. The Title IX coordinator will go over all options available when a meeting occurs. The standard used for a formal investigation is a preponderance of the evidence.
- The Police Department is another reporting option for people that want to pursue a criminal complaint. This may include interviews and court proceedings. The standard used is beyond a reasonable doubt.
File a Formal Complaint
By filing a Formal Complaint you are initiating the formal resolution process (either an informal resolution or a formal investigation). To file a formal complaint, fill out the online form, or contact the Title IX coordinator.
Title IX Coordinator
Michelle Disson
863-874-8484 | titleixcoordinator@floridapoly.edu
4700 Research Way
Lakeland, FL 33805
University Process
Responsibility of Title IX Coordinator: The Title IX coordinator is responsible for administering the grievance process for sexual misconduct. Reports or allegations covered in this policy will be processed upon receiving the report. The Title IX coordinator makes an initial assessment of whether the complaint falls within the scope of this policy and/or Title IX.
Respondent is an Employee, Vendor, or Contractor: If the Respondent is an employee, a vendor, or a contractor, the complaint will be resolved using the procedures outlined in FPU-1.005 Discrimination and Harassment Complaint and Investigation Procedures.
Respondent is a University Student: If the Respondent is a student, the complaint will be resolved using the procedures outlined in FPU-3.006 Student Code of Conduct.
Title IX Grievance Process: Complaints that allege conduct that is within the scope of Title IX will also follow the additional provisions outlined in FPU-1.005P Sexual Misconduct.
Contact Us
863-874-8484 | titleixcoordinator@floridapoly.edu
