The U.S. Department of Education sent public schools nationwide a “Dear Colleague” letter Feb. 15 ordering them to “cease using race preferences and stereotypes as a factor in their admissions, hiring, promotion, compensation, scholarships, prizes, administrative support, sanctions, discipline, and beyond” by Feb. 28 or risk loss of federal funding. The letter echoes a Jan. 20 executive order by President Donald Trump that forbids diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the federal government. These actions have raised concerns at SHHS that some student organizations could be targeted for elimination. U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson ruled Feb. 21 that the orders violate constitutional principles such as free speech. His decision blocked their enforcement but allowed the government to investigate and report on DEI practices.
