Local Control in Education

New York Rejects Trump’s DEI School Order

New York’s defiance of a federal order targeting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in public schools is a significant development. The state’s education agency firmly asserts that no federal or state laws prohibit DEI principles. This clear and direct rejection underscores a fundamental disagreement regarding the legality and even the definition of DEI practices targeted by the federal order. The lack of a concrete definition from the federal government further strengthens New York’s position, highlighting the ambiguity surrounding the order’s scope and application.

The state’s response is not merely a legal argument; it represents a broader rejection of what the state views as an overreach of federal authority into local education matters.… Continue reading

Oklahoma Superintendents Defy Walters’ Order to Show Trump Prayer Video

Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters mandated that public schools show a video promoting his new Office of Religious Liberty and Patriotism, a directive swiftly rejected by at least seven large school districts citing a lack of legal authority and infringement on local control. The Attorney General’s office confirmed the mandate’s unenforceability. This action, along with a controversial purchase of 500 Bibles for AP Government classes using unapproved funds, has drawn significant criticism from lawmakers and the public, raising questions about Walters’ priorities and the use of taxpayer money. The controversy highlights a clash between state-level directives and local autonomy in education.

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