Affirmative action programs have played a critical role in opening up educational opportunities for women ― but now, equal access to education is under attack.

A federal law, Title IX, makes it illegal for schools to discriminate against students because of their sex ― which means that girls have the same right to play as boys.

Too many girls are being pushed out of school as a result of unfair discipline practices, or because they aren’t getting the support they need to deal with trauma, harassment, and other negative experiences.

For young parents, parenthood isn’t the end of the road. It’s essential that pregnant and parenting students not only have equal access to education, but also receive support to help them succeed in school.

For students who are at risk of dropping out or who are pushed out of school ― many of whom are girls of color ― equal educational opportunities remain out of reach.

Traditionally male-dominated careers, like construction and engineering, tend to offer better pay than traditionally female fields. Women deserve equal access to career and technical education programs in fields leading to high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand jobs.

Both sexual harassment and sexual violence are prohibited in schools under federal law ― yet many students still experience harassment and assault, which can have a devastating impact on their lives.

Federal law requires all students to be treated equally in school, regardless of gender. That means schools can’t separate classes based on gender stereotypes that harm both boys and girls.