Six school districts in New Hampshire and Vermont have joined a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education’s threats to cut funding for institutions that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in their curriculums and programming. The districts include Dover, Hanover, Oyster River, Portsmouth, Somersworth in New Hampshire, and Norwich in Vermont.
After a hearing on emergency relief, the parties have reached an agreement that temporarily prevents federal officials from enforcing the directive until the court rules on its legality. The agreement ensures that no school district, state agency, or higher education institution will face penalties for not certifying the absence of DEI efforts in their curriculum.
Christine Boston, assistant superintendent for the Dover School District, emphasized the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in public education. John Shea, superintendent for the Somersworth School District, expressed pride in standing alongside other districts to provide equitable opportunities for all students.
The lawsuit was filed by the ACLU, NEA, and others, arguing that the Department of Education’s directive violates due process, academic freedom, and the First Amendment by dictating what educators can teach and students can learn. The lawsuit asserts that the DOE has no authority to control curriculum and that educational institutions have the right to shape programs that celebrate diversity.
The parties will return to court on April 17 to further address the issue. Overall, this lawsuit highlights the ongoing debate over the federal government’s role in regulating diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in educational institutions.
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