Who can file a formal complaint under Title IX?

• A. The Principal
• B. The Title IX Coordinator
• C. Any student
• D. A complainant or the Title IX Coordinator

Answer: (D)

A formal complaint under Title IX is the document that starts the official investigation into alleged harassment or discrimination. It can be filed by the person who experienced or witnessed the conduct (the complainant) or by the school’s Title IX Coordinator, who has the authority to initiate the process to ensure a prompt and proper response. The principal isn’t automatically authorized to file a formal complaint on behalf of a student, unless they also serve as the Title IX Coordinator. Likewise, saying any student can file is too broad—the formal complaint must be filed by the complainant or by the Title IX Coordinator who acts on behalf of the school. So the strongest, correct idea is that a formal complaint can be filed by the complainant or the Title IX Coordinator.