The Red Zone. It is talked about often in the Title IX world: the period of time from the beginning of fall semester to Thanksgiving break when sexual assaults on US college campuses spike. We talk about the Red Zone during orientation, welcome week, prevention events, and educational sessions.

However we do not usually talk about the impact of the Red Zone on our Title IX Team. We do not prepare well enough for the influx in cases hitting at one time; all seemingly emergencies. Coordinators flail to provide supportive measures to a high volume of students including:

• Excusing absences
• Navigating options to avoid failing grades
• Changing housing
• Withdrawing students from school
• Providing extracurricular accommodations
• Counseling, including finding ways to squeeze Title IX students into already overcrowded caseloads for our on campus counselors.
• Developing safety plans

The list goes on. You name it, TItle IX Coordinators are thinking outside the box to make it happen.

Then, there is the increase in caseloads for investigators. Managing a high volume while still producing quality work product is tough. Work hours increase and timelines still suffer. It feels like being trapped between a rock and hard place. There is not enough time in the day to get it all done.

When Title IX Team members are actually able to stop work for a bit to enjoy their families, their students are always in the back of their minds. Title IX Team members are often left with a feeling that they are never enough…in any capacity. However, my friends, you are AMAZING. Your work is so important!

There is light at the end of the tunnel. Thanksgiving break is right around the corner. Winter break is close behind. Your ability to catch up is on the horizon. In the meantime, we, at ICS, want you to know that
1) we see you
2) we are with you
3) we are proud of you

As you finish November strong, make sure to document the time you are spending on these cases and the resources you are using. Document the emotional toll and the challenges. When it is time to discuss budgets in the coming months you need to be armed with the impact the Red Zone has taken in order to prepare for the next one. The best way to advocate for yourself and your office is by clearly articulating the need for additional support.

November is Hard, but you’ve got this!