The truth about DEI
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), a top priority at most K-12 independent schools, is a divisive ideology that has been embedded into all subjects. As long as DEI is a school priority, viewpoint diversity will never be. The two are mutually exclusive.
Diversity used to mean that different perspectives enhanced conversations and learning. Now, it’s the opposite; it silences those who disagree and replaces the values of agency, intellectual honesty, and personal responsibility. It divides people into groups — oppressed vs. oppressor. Equity lowers standards to achieve equal outcomes. Inclusion excludes anyone whose point of view might make others feel “uncomfortable.” We are seeing the results of this incessant focus on identity and social justice activism.
The pushback happening in higher ed should “pour” down to K-12
Many students are showing up on college campuses “uneducated” and without a moral framework. The lowered standards of K-12 schools have created an “education” system that has failed them and contributed to the rot in higher education. Seeing this playout with their schools’ responses to the war on Israel, key donors and trustees are voting with their wallets and their feet. What does this mean for K-12 independent schools? The door has been opened, and trustees now have “permission” to speak up and ask important questions. If not now, when?
Questions to ask:
What happened on campus that requires the prioritization of DEI?
Has the school’s mission changed? Has DEI been prioritized to the extent that it has resulted in mission creep?
Are prospective school employees required/encouraged to provide DEI statements as part of the job application process?
Does expressing fealty to DEI provide an advantage with respect to hiring and promotions?
How large is the school’s DEI department?
Actions Trustees Must Take
Affirm your three main responsibilities — fiduciary, upholding the school's mission, and overseeing the Head of School.
Ensure the Head of School's goals include a measurable commitment to free inquiry and viewpoint diversity.
Read your school DEI plans and learn why DEI is a divisive political ideology that both chills and compels speech.
Ask important questions, like “Does your school believe that there are only two biological sexes?” Speak up when the truth is not represented.
Stand up for viewpoint diversity in the boardroom. Ask hard questions. Tell the truth.
Learn about the role NAIS membership and accreditation plays in compelling DEI. Accreditation is a “toothless tiger,” and trustees should engage with the accreditation process to understand its “influence” and where they can push back.
Work with your school to adopt its own version of a University of Chicago “free speech statement” and live it.
“Because “the school” is committed to free and open inquiry in all matters, it guarantees all members of the “school” community the broadest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn...[I]t is not the proper role of the “school” to attempt to shield individuals from ideas and opinions they find unwelcome, disagreeable, or even deeply offensive.”
— Excerpt from the Chicago Statement