Who is protected under Title IX in a school context?

• A. Students only
• B. Students, employees, and applicants in education programs or activities, regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• C. Only employees
• D. Only athletes

Answer: (B)

Title IX protects people in education programs or activities that receive federal funding from sex-based discrimination. This includes students, employees, and applicants in those programs or activities, and it covers protections regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. In real terms, schools must ensure equal opportunities across admissions, academics, athletics, housing, financial aid, and discipline, and they must address harassment and discrimination that arise. The broad scope is why the option that includes all three groups—students, employees, and applicants—best fits Title IX, rather than restricting protections to only students, only employees, or only athletes.