District cognizant of Title IX duties

In 1972, with urging from the public, Representative Mink’s bill to bring equity opportunities in education and activities for girls and women, Congress passed Title IX which was signed into law by President Nixon. This was a game-changer for the nation’s girls and women.

I, along with others, served on a committee to assist our school board with implementing the new law. Because of budgetary concerns and parents who feared that boys’ programs would be cut, this was not an easy task and compliance was not easily attained. However, through persistence and dedication, our district worked to bring into compliance giving girls and women coaches equality in a number of sports, scheduling, equipment and pay. To see what the effects of Title IX has had on the lives of girls and women giving them opportunities and experiences previously barred to them has been heartwarming.

It is important that the act needs annual review and our school board has done a good job in keeping compliance. They listen to concerns and make adjustments where necessary. The recent addition of girls wrestling is an example of that. It does not take someone outside our district to file a complaint to see that the district is cognizant of its duties.

ELSIE HOLLENBECK

Bonners Ferry