Recent Title IX cases in Florida highlight how easily a fifth grade teacher can find themselves at the center of a misconduct investigation—even when the incident is not the main plot of a larger issue. Whether an educator showed a Disney movie that included a gay character or discussed topics directly related to the class curriculum, public scrutiny and administrative action have followed. In one well-publicized case, Jenna Barbee, a teacher at Winding Waters, faced a Title IX complaint after showing a film that included a male character who expressed feelings toward another male student. Although the scene was not sexual and not the main plot, it was used to trigger an investigation under the education amendments enforced in Florida’s public educational institutions.

Under the Title IX process, educators may be investigated for alleged sexual harassment or sexual assault even in scenarios involving classroom content. State officials and school district administrators, often under pressure from parental rights advocates and political leaders such as Ron DeSantis, have pushed forward complaints without fully examining teacher intent or the context. Teachers—especially those unaware of the legal standards—may quickly be found guilty of violations they didn’t realize existed. Without legal guidance, navigating the process or securing a fair hearing becomes nearly impossible.



We represent educators through every phase of the investigation, with a deep understanding of how these policies affect your teaching license, employment rights, and professional standing. If you've been contacted about a potential Title IX violation—whether you're a classroom teacher or a special education law attorney working in support of a school—our team is here to help you defend your record and ensure due process.