Arizona Education Dept. Warns of Funding Loss Over DEI Standards

The Arizona Department of Education is taking a bold step, urging the state board of education to remove references to diversity, equity, and inclusion from teaching standards. This move comes amid concerns about potential loss of federal funding.

Although the department did not specify exact language to be changed, the push for revisions follows a directive issued by President Trump in January aimed at halting federal grants for DEI initiatives. This order, however, is currently hindered by an injunction.

Arizona’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Horne, emphasizes the importance of readiness should the injunction be lifted, suggesting that the state’s entire $866 million K-12 funding could be jeopardized.

While no specific phrases were pinpointed, an ADE representative mentioned they would examine terms such as “equitably” or concepts focusing on the cultural responsiveness of learners.

The ADE’s proposal will be presented to the Board on Monday. Should the Board consent to these changes, a comprehensive process involving stakeholder input will ensue over several months.

Doug Nick, an ADE spokesperson, highlighted a letter from the United States Department of Education sent in February. The letter addresses discrimination in American schools, notably against white and Asian students, stating, “Institutions that fail to comply with federal civil rights law may, consistent with applicable law, face potential loss of federal funding.”