Published on: December 15, 2025
In this year-end episode, Kayleigh and Joe welcome TNG Partner and ATIXA President Saundra K. Schuster, J.D., M.S., whose decades of expertise have shaped the Title IX field’s approach to pregnancy protections. Together, they visit the ghost of regulations past, examining the original 1975 Title IX framework and its foundational protections for pregnant students.
Saundra discusses why institutions should continue to offer modifications and support for pregnant and parenting students, sharing best practices from the now-rescinded 2024 rule. She explains how pregnancy-related needs differ from disability accommodations and why she doesn’t expect significant federal changes soon. Even so, Saundra notes a major update from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regarding support animals in shared living spaces.
If you are wondering what compliance looks like in 2026, we are more likely than not covering it in this week’s episode.
Relevant news:
- Time with IX/Talking BITs: Emotional Support Animals: What Changed, What Didn’t, and What Schools Must Decide Now
- Know Your Rights: Pregnant or Parenting? Title IX Protects You From Discrimination At School
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Assistance Animals
- ATIXA: OPEN Center Pregnancy Protections
- ATIXA’s Policy & Procedure Builder
- ATIXA Save the Date 2026
- ATIXA Blog: Best Practices to Keep from 2024 Regulations
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It’s not legal advice and shouldn’t be relied on as such. If you’re navigating a specific issue, always consult with your institution’s general counsel or a qualified attorney familiar with Title IX and applicable state laws.