Compliance Statement

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. Title IX states “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance[.]” All federal agencies that provide grants of financial assistance are required to enforce Title IX’s nondiscrimination mandate. Examples of the types of discrimination that are covered under Title IX include but are not limited to: sex-based harassment; sexual violence; pregnancy discrimination; the failure to provide equal academic opportunity; sex-based discrimination in a school’s courses and programs; discriminatory application of dress code policies and/or enforcement; and retaliation.

Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine (“DRCOM” or “the College”) is committed to maintaining an educational & working environment free from sex-based discrimination, harassment, and misconduct.

In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and its implementing regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106), DRCOM prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in all programs, activities, admissions, employment, and operations.


Scope of Policy

This policy applies to all members of the DRCOM community, including:

  • Students (prospective & current)
  • Faculty & staff (part-time, full-time, adjunct, contract)
  • Third parties involved in school programs & activities

Conduct covered under this policy includes sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and any other form of sex-based discrimination as defined under federal regulations.


Title IX Coordinator

The College has designated a Title IX Coordinator to ensure compliance with Title IX. The Coordinator oversees the implementation of this policy, receives reports, and coordinates responses to allegations.

Title IX Coordinator: 

Dr. Jessica Fritz, DACM, AP (certification)
 Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine
 6815 14th Street W. Bradenton, FL 34207
email: JFritz@DragonRises.edu
phone: 941-289-2457

The Coordinator is responsible for:

  • Receiving and responding to complaints of sex-based discrimination or harassment
  • Implementing supportive measures
  • Ensuring equitable resolution of complaints

Training used for Title IX Coordinator certification: (link)


Non-Discrimination Notice

Pursuant to Title IX and other applicable laws, DRCOM does not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation in its educational programs, activities, or employment practices. Retaliation against individuals who report discrimination, participate in an investigation, or otherwise engage in protected activity is strictly prohibited.

Grievance Procedures

Reporting

Any individual may report sex-based discrimination or harassment to the Title IX Coordinator by email, phone, mail, or in person. Reports may be submitted at any time, including outside normal business hours, using the contact information provided above.


Initial Response

Upon receipt of a report, the Title IX Coordinator will:

  • Promptly contact the complainant to discuss supportive measures
  • Explain the process for filing a formal complaint
  • Provide information about rights and options under Title IX


Formal Complaint & Investigation

A formal complaint may be filed by the complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator. Once filed:

  1. Notice of allegations is provided to both parties.
  2. An impartial investigation is conducted.
  3. Both parties are afforded equal opportunity to present evidence and witnesses.
  4. Evidence is made available for review prior to a determination.
  5. A written determination is issued based on a preponderance of the evidence standard.


Hearings & Determination

Where required, live hearings may be conducted. Both parties may have an advisor of their choice. Cross-examination will be conducted by advisors only. The decision-maker will issue a written determination including findings of fact, policy conclusions, and sanctions if applicable.


Appeals

Both parties may appeal a determination or dismissal of a formal complaint on the following grounds:

  • Procedural irregularity affecting the outcome
  • New evidence not reasonably available earlier
  • Conflict of interest or bias of the Title IX Coordinator, investigator, or decision-maker

Policies and Resources

Federal References

  • Title IX Regulations – 34 C.F.R. Part 106 (link)
  • U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (link)


Confidential & Privileged Resources

Certain professionals may provide confidential assistance and are not required to share details with the College, including licensed medical providers, mental health counselors, and attorneys.


External Reporting

Complaints may also be filed directly with:

  • Office for Civil Rights (OCR), U.S. Department of Education (link)
  • Law enforcement authorities (Bradenton Police Department) (link)
  • Florida Commission on Human Relations (link)

FAQs

Who can file a complaint?
 Any student, employee, applicant, or third party who believes they have been subjected to sex-based discrimination or harassment.

Is there a time limit for reporting?
 While prompt reporting is encouraged, there is no strict time limit for filing a complaint under Title IX.

Will I be protected against retaliation?
 Yes. Retaliation against any individual for reporting or participating in a Title IX process is prohibited and will be addressed as a separate violation.

What supportive measures are available?
 Supportive measures may include academic accommodations, no-contact orders, counseling referrals, schedule modifications, or other appropriate interventions.

Does this apply to off-campus conduct?
 Yes, when the conduct creates or contributes to a hostile environment in a DRCOM program or activity.

File a Complaint