What is the first step in addressing a sexual violence complaint?

• A. Separate victim & alleged perpetrator
• B. Review/help document complaint
• C. Investigate
• D. Contact parents/guardians

Answer: (B)

When a sexual violence complaint is received, the priority is to capture an accurate, formal record of the report. Documenting and reviewing the complaint creates a clear, factual foundation—covering who was involved, what happened, when and where it occurred, and any immediate safety concerns. This written intake guides every subsequent step and helps ensure the response aligns with policy, reporting requirements, and the needs of the student. Once the information is documented and safety needs are assessed, the school can proceed with next actions like separating individuals if needed, moving into a formal investigation, or contacting guardians as required. Without solid documentation from the start, later steps can become inconsistent or incomplete, which could compromise safety and the integrity of the response.