Title IX at 35 - Progress Measured, Gaps Remaining

January 25, 2008

By Jan Erickson, Director of Foundation Programs

According to a new report, educational outcomes have improved dramatically over the 35 years since passage of Title IX, the law that requires all educational institutions receiving federal funds to assure equal educational opportunities for girls and boys. "Title IX at 35 - Beyond the Headlines," prepared by the National Coalition of Women and Girls in Education (NCWGE) assesses progress - or the lack of it - in areas such as athletics; career and technical education; employment in education institutions; STEM - science, technology, engineering and mathematics; sexual harassment and single-sex education.

Of particular concern are serious gaps in girls' participation in the STEM fields and athletics programs. The new report also knocks down the assertion that boys' alleged educational problems are due to girls excelling at school, and it provides evidence that girls' increased participation in sports has not come at the expense of boys' athletic programs. Further, the report notes that the federal government has failed to provide adequate oversight and enforcement of Title IX requirements.

The National Organization for Women Foundation joined with the Feminist Majority and others to write a chapter on why single-sex classes and schools threaten Title IX's goal of equal education. Numerous recommendations are included in the report on how polices and programs in all areas should be changed to achieve equal educational opportunities.

Women's equality advocates are encouraged to send the report to school and university administrators and other educational professionals who may find it useful.

Title IX at 35 - Beyond the Headlines

• Read the executive summary (PDF file)
• Read the full report (PDF file)
• About PDF documents