Breastfeeding & Students
Students and employees—and their families—should not have to forgo the benefits of human milk feeding due to a lack of support and accommodations in educational institutions.
But sadly, that happens every day.
Title IX Basics
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, or “Title IX,” is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs. The law is a key tool for ensuring that all people have an equal opportunity for education, regardless of their sex or gender.
No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Title IX
Title IX protects students and employees of educational programs that receive federal funds; that includes students and employees of K-12 schools, colleges, universities, as well as educational programs in libraries, museums, vocational programs, and prisons. Title IX protects people of all sexes and genders from discrimination, not just women.
Resources for Students, Teachers, and Institutions
The resources below can help both students and administrators support and promote lactation accommodation in schools. To develop a comprehensive program it is key to include a written policy, system for communication, and environmental changes, along with resources and education for staff. Schools that offer lactation accommodation can realize decreased absenteeism and turnover and more productive, satisfied students.
Resources for Students
- The Pregnant Scholar Know Your Rights Breastfeeding
- The Pregnant Scholar Frequently Asked Questions about Title IX
- Helpful Handouts for Students and Faculty
- Students Rights Title IX
- School Based Pregnant/Parenting Teen Programs
- AB 302 Pupil Services: Lactation Accommodation
- CSBA Policy BP 5146 Married/Pregnant/Parenting Students
Resources for Schools
- The Pregnant Scholar Responsibilities for Administrators
- Best Practices Guide: Supporting Students in Your Courses
- Model Student Breastfeeding Policy
- Teachers/Employees (also see employee resources):
- Steps for Working and Breastfeeding at School
- How to Make it Work at Your School
- Tips for Teachers Who Pump
- Principal Training
- Sample Policy
- California School Boards Association (CSBA) Policy BP 4033
- San Diego County School Districts with Existing Lactation Accommodation Policies
It is important for school boards to encourage administrators and principals to create supportive work environments to help breastfeeding employees continue breastfeeding while working. This improves children’s and employees’ health, saves on health claims, reduces absenteeism, and improves employee morale. And when the children of these employees reach school-age, schools reap an additional benefit – healthier children in our classrooms.
-Richard Barrera, San Diego Unified School District
The San Diego County Breastfeeding Coalition is a registered nonprofit association driven by the mission to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding through education, advocacy, and outreach in our community. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on our generous donors, members, and volunteers to continue our mission for thousands of families across San Diego County. Your contribution is very much appreciated and will go directly towards supporting breastfeeding families in our community.
