Pregnancy and Parenting Support

College of DuPage supports pregnant and parenting students in continuing their education. Students can contact the Title IX Coordinator for assistance with pregnancy-related academic needs, questions about their rights and connections to College and community resources.

Your Rights

Title IX prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy and recovery from these conditions. College rules concerning parental, family or marital status may not treat students differently based on sex.

Pregnant students may continue participating in classes, clinical placements, internships, extracurricular activities and other College programs. Students experiencing pregnancy-related medical needs are entitled to treatment consistent with that provided for other temporary medical conditions, as required by applicable law.

Requesting Academic Support

Contact the Title IX Coordinator or Request Pregnancy and Parenting Accommodations if pregnancy or a related condition affects your ability to attend class, complete assignments, participate in a program or access College services.

Depending on your circumstances, support may include:

• Excused absences and medically necessary leave related to pregnancy, childbirth or recovery.
• Opportunities to make up work missed during approved pregnancy-related absences.
• Adjustments to deadlines, testing schedules, seating or other academic arrangements.
• Coordination concerning breaks for pregnancy-related needs or expressing breast milk.
• Assistance planning your return following medically necessary leave.

Requests are reviewed individually. The Title IX Coordinator will discuss your needs, explain any documentation requirements and coordinate with appropriate College personnel.

Lactation Support

College of DuPage offers two designated lactation spaces for students who need to breastfeed or express breast milk:

• Berg Instructional Center (BIC), Room 1421: A passcode is required. Contact the Dean of Students office or Access and Accommodations to request the passcode.
• Student Services Center (SSC), Room 2203: A second lactation space is located within the Center for Access and Accommodations.

Students who need assistance coordinating lactation breaks with classes, exams, clinical placements or other academic activities may contact the Title IX Coordinator.

Parenting and Basic-Needs Resources

Students balancing college and parenting responsibilities can explore the following resources:

• Child Care and Community Assistance: Information about childcare assistance, housing, utilities, transportation, health services and community support.
• Fuel Pantry: Free food and personal care items for currently enrolled students with a self-identified need.
• Emergency Student Funding: Information about assistance for eligible students experiencing unexpected financial emergencies that threaten their ability to continue their education.

Title IX Coordinator

Parenting students are encouraged to contact the Title IX Coordinator for help identifying resources. Eligibility and availability vary by program.

Baker, Assia

Student Services

Student Conduct and Title IX Coordinator

Phone: (630) 942-2491

Office Location: BIC 1417C

Email: bakera478@cod.edu

Pregnancy Decisions and Referrals

Students seeking information about pregnancy options, including parenting, adoption or abortion, may request assistance connecting with appropriate health care, counseling or community resources. Students are not required to disclose their pregnancy decisions to request information about educational support.