By Jennifer Eisenbart
Editor
In the latest drawing of battle lines over diversity, equity and inclusion by the federal government, the Trump administration announced last week that all K-12 school districts must certify they are following federal civil rights law and end any discriminatory diversity, equity and inclusion practices.
While many area districts have categorically stated they are in full compliance, what the federal requirements are – if it is applicable to staffing, students or messaging within a district – remain unclear.
“We have not gotten any clarity on that as of yet,” said Delavan-Darien School District Superintendent Drew Halbesma. “We are waiting on more guidance from the Wisconsin DPI.”
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction did not issue a specific news release last week regarding the new edict, but on April 7, offered a link to the guidance provided to area school district superintendents.
According to that guidance, the U.S. Department of Education specifically asked for certification from both state and local agencies within the next 10 days.
“We are carefully reviewing the legal implications of this new directive and are working closely with other states and agencies to coordinate our response,” the DPI stated. “We understand the importance of clarity on this matter, and we are doing everything we can to gather the details necessary to determine our next steps. Once we have more information, we will share it with you right away.”
The DPI went on to say that it believes both the DPI and Wisconsin schools are in full compliance with federal requirements, and urged a “measured and thoughtful approach” versus immediate or reactionary responses.
Different area school districts weighed in when asked about the new direction.
For the full story, please see the print editions of the Walworth County Southern Lakes Newspapers.
