States begin falling in line with Trump’s mandate to strip DEI from schools ahead of looming deadline

President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the deadline for states and school districts to certify compliance with his executive order banning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. The new deadline is set for April 24, giving more time for entities to ensure they are in line with federal anti-discrimination requirements.

Acting Assistant Secretary Craig Trainor emphasized that federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right. When states and school districts accept federal funds, they agree to abide by these requirements. Trainor expressed concern over schools using DEI programs to discriminate against one group in favor of another, which is a violation of Title VI.

Several states have already certified their compliance or indicated their intent to do so. Puerto Rico was commended for being the first to certify that discrimination or harmful race-preferencing is not allowed in their classrooms. Education Secretary Linda McMahon urged other states to follow suit to continue receiving federal funds.

However, some states, such as New York, Minnesota, and Illinois, have signaled defiance in response to the administration’s funding threat. Minnesota’s education commissioner, Willie Jett, criticized the threats as lacking legal backing and potentially putting essential programs at risk. Illinois’ education board also pushed back, stating that they will not compromise their commitment to helping every child from all backgrounds.

Wisconsin also raised concerns with Trump’s certification requirements, calling them unauthorized, unlawful, and unconstitutionally vague. The state had already certified compliance with federal nondiscrimination statutes and questioned the federal government’s authority to dictate local education policies.

On the other hand, Republican-led states like West Virginia, Iowa, Indiana, Texas, and Ohio have shown support for stricter bans on DEI initiatives at public colleges. Measures to restrict DEI programs, training, and scholarships have been considered or passed in these states. Ohio and Indiana have taken steps to eliminate DEI-related activities and enforce penalties for noncompliance.

New Hampshire and Indiana are advising school leaders to evaluate their DEI programs for compliance with federal directives. The Department of Education’s certification document references Title IX, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal financial assistance.

The certification process follows a Dear Colleague letter sent in February, instructing educational institutions to end discriminatory practices in various aspects of student life. Trump’s executive order in January, titled “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling,” prohibits teaching materials deemed anti-American or promoting gender ideology and critical race theory.

Overall, the deadline extension provides states and school districts with more time to ensure compliance with federal anti-discrimination requirements. The ongoing debate over DEI policies and federal funding highlights the complex intersection of education, politics, and civil rights.