For Birthing and Non-Birthing Parents and Faculty Supporting Students
Am I, as a birthing or non-birthing parent protected? How?
Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex – this includes discrimination against pregnant and parenting students. Foster and adoptive parents can also seek support through the Title IX and Dean of Students Offices.
Does the Student Health Center Offer pregnancy testing?
Yes, the UNCG Student Health Center offers pregnancy testing to all students: https://shs.uncg.edu/womens-clinic
What are some adjustments available to me?
Reasonable adjustments vary because each student’s needs and curriculum are different, but may include, for example (the following is a non-exhaustive list):
- Larger desks
- Breaks, as needed, during longer classes
- Excused absences (which may require a doctor’s note)
- Alternative assignments to account for those missed
- Reasonable time for nursing and access to lactation rooms
- Parking accommodations
- Flexible assignment/ testing schedule
Remember that these are possible adjustments that may apply. Please contact the Title IX Office to discuss your personal situation.
If I need an academic or work adjustment or to take a leave of absence, how do I ask?
By completing this Pregnant/Parenting Adjustment Request Form, the Dean of Students and/or Title IX Offices can assist you with determining options that may be available to you based on your personal circumstances and what to communicate with your faculty and/or campus employer based on your needs.
Am I required to tell anyone about my pregnancy or parenting status?
Birthing and non-birthing parents are NOT required to inform faculty, staff, or any other employee about their pregnancy or parenting status – unless they are seeking accommodations. The disclosure of pregnancy or parenting status is a voluntary one and something the University wants to encourage if you need University support.
What do I do if a student tells me they’re pregnant, parenting, or have terminated a pregnancy?
Lend a listening ear, ask if they need adjustments and if they’ve already spoken to the Dean of Students Office. If they haven’t spoken to the Dean of Students Office – help make the connection for them.
What do I do if a student tells me they need to miss class due to delivery and/or a pregnancy related condition?
The University excuses all medically necessary absences for pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, or recovery – this includes doctor appointments. These requirements are prescribed, specifically, via Title IX and are reflected in the University’s Title IX Policy. Faculty members should excuse those absences deemed medically necessary by the appropriate medical professional. Students who seek support from the Dean of Students Office may request a letter be sent to their faculty to confirm they are receiving support from the Dean of Students Office.
Can I, as a faculty/staff member, ask a student to prove they’re pregnant or provide a doctor’s note?
No – faculty/staff cannot ask for documentation. However, you can connect the student to the Dean of Students Office so they can receive support and guidance and the Dean of Students and/or Title IX Offices can follow up with you.