Students required to complete online sexual harassment course
During the spring semester of the 2024-25 school year, Westlake High School students, parents and faculty expressed their opinions on the lack of action taken by the Conejo Valley Unified School District [CVUSD] administration regarding Title IX procedures. In response to these protests, the CVUSD announced a new online sexual harassment course, which will be required for all high school students.
This online course is a 29-minute online learning module provided by Vector Solutions and has been available for students on their ClassLink. The module opened for students on Sept. 15, and they must complete it on their own by Sept. 30.
Vector Solutions is a software company that provides online training for parents and students. It starts the course with a two-minute pre-assessment, focused on the user’s personal definition of sexual harassment and assault, accompanied by examples as well as situations where it is happening. Through four main sections, the course also covers the definition of consent and the differences between wanted and unwanted attention. The blunt and realistic scenarios of the course highlight the severity of sexual assault and harassment within a school environment. It offers a realistic look into what toxic and unwanted dynamics look like for those who are struggling, experiencing sexual violence, or are unsure of what that even means. Kenneth Loo, CVUSD Assistant Superintendent of Instructional and Student Services, provided more context to the process of the course at the school board meeting on Aug. 13. “We will be providing [students with] information about how to report allegations of sexual harassment, specific to that specific school site,” Loo said.
An email was sent out to parents and guardians of high school students on Sept. 2, outlining the release of the learning module, giving the parents an opportunity to view the course, as well as allowing parents and guardians to opt their child out of the module, in accordance with the California Healthy Youth Act. The email also provided a preview post-course survey, which allows students an optional and anonymous opportunity to complete based on their level of agreement with a list of statements.
This online educational course is in alignment with Resolution #24/25-46, passed at the end of the 2024-25 school year. Resolution #24/25-46 addressed Title IX investigations and related practices, ensuring that the safety and well-being of all students in the CVUSD are of paramount importance, and that the district is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for every student. The course falls specifically under number eight of the resolution, promoting education surrounding sexual misconduct.
