How to Report Violations

 How to Report Violations and Stand Up for Your Rights

When a student’s rights are violated at school—whether it’s misgendering, being denied bathroom access, having a GSA silenced, or witnessing censorship—it can feel overwhelming. But students, parents, and teachers are not powerless. There are systems in place for reporting harm and holding schools accountable. The process is not always easy or fast, but it matters.

Knowing how to document what happened and where to bring your complaint is the first step in making sure your voice is heard.

Start with Documentation

The moment something happens that feels wrong, write it down. Whether it’s a conversation, a denial of access, or a disciplinary action, keeping a record is key. Include:

• Date, time, and location

• Names of staff or students involved

• A clear description of what happened

• Screenshots or emails, if relevant

Even a short summary can be valuable. If you feel unsafe doing this alone, ask a friend, GSA advisor, or trusted adult to help you document what occurred.

Report to Your School

Most school districts require that complaints start at the school level. This may involve submitting a written statement to your principal, guidance counselor, or designated Title IX Coordinator. Every school district is required to have someone in that role, even if their contact information isn’t easy to find.

• Miami-Dade:

  • District Title IX Coordinator Ms. Nicole B. Rutherford

  • (305) 995-1580

  • nrobertson@dadeschools.net

• Broward:

  • District Title IX Coordinator Wladimir G. Alvarez

  • (754) 321-2150

  • wladimir.alvarez@browardschools.com

• Palm Beach:

  • District Title IX Coordinator Eunice Vivar 

  • (561) 792-8686

  • TitleIX@palmbeachschools.org

Request a response in writing. If the school does not follow up within a reasonable time, typically ten business days, you can escalate.

In cases where school policy itself is the problem—for example, if your district refuses to recognize GSAs, denies bathroom access, or has adopted discriminatory curriculum rules—you can also file a complaint with the Florida Department of Education. But be aware: the state has backed many of these rollbacks, so outcomes may vary.

Use Federal Civil Rights Protections

If your situation involves discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disability, you can file a federal civil rights complaint. This includes:

• Title IX for sex-based discrimination, including anti-LGBTQ+ harassment or denial of access

• Section 504 or Title II of the ADA for disability-related issues

• Title VI for racial or ethnic discrimination

These complaints go through the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). You do not need a lawyer, and there is no cost to file. Complaints must typically be submitted within 180 days of the incident.

You can file online here: https://ocrcas.ed.gov

Why Reporting Matters

Filing a complaint doesn’t always lead to an immediate fix. But it creates a record. It signals that students and families are paying attention. It can lead to investigations, policy changes, and accountability—even if it takes time.

It also shows other students that they’re not alone.

Some of the most important changes in school policy happen not through new laws, but because someone filed a complaint, told their story, and refused to accept silence.

PRISM Can Help

If you’re not sure where to start, PRISM is here to walk you through it. We can help draft complaints, identify the right contact, and provide support throughout the process. Whether you’re a student, parent, or teacher, you do not have to navigate this alone.

When your rights are violated, speaking up is an act of courage—and a step toward something better.