Three federal judges have ruled against the Trump administration’s efforts to halt diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in schools. The decisions came from courts in Maryland, New Hampshire, and Washington, D.C., and were announced on Thursday. The judges found that the administration had overstepped its authority by attempting to dictate what schools can teach regarding DEI.
The rulings mean that the U.S. Department of Education cannot carry out its threats to withhold federal funding from schools that do not comply with the administration’s directives on DEI. This funding is crucial for many districts, especially those serving low-income students and children with disabilities.
U.S. District Judge Landya B. McCafferty, appointed by former President Obama, emphasized the need to protect academic freedom and expose students to diverse viewpoints. She criticized the administration for its vague definitions and lack of clarity around what constitutes a DEI program.
Judge Stephanie A. Gallagher, a Trump appointee, echoed these concerns, stating that the government did not follow the proper legal processes in creating and implementing its policies. She issued a temporary stay that prevents the administration from enforcing its threats against schools.
The judges pointed out that the Trump administration’s actions could create a chilling effect on teachers. For instance, a simple classroom exercise promoting kindness could be seen as a violation of the administration’s broad and unclear definitions of DEI practices.
The Education Department had argued that its actions were necessary to enforce existing civil rights laws. However, the judges found that the administration’s approach could be seen as overstepping its legal boundaries, as federal law prohibits the Department of Education from controlling school curricula.
In response to the rulings, the Education Department did not provide comments. It remains to be seen whether the Trump administration will appeal these decisions. The outcomes of these cases highlight ongoing tensions over educational policies and the role of federal authority in shaping school curricula.