Could Kentucky schools be ending DEI? Here's what state education leaders said
Over the weekend, Kentucky Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher reportedly told local superintendents that the department had decided to sign a certification form sent on April 3 from the United States Department of Education (DOE) forbidding the use of DEI practices in school policy.
The DOE's form goes on to say that school leaders who don't sign the form will no longer receive federal funding and could even be sued by the U.S. Department of Justice under litigation for a breach of contract.
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'As Commissioner of Education, I am committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of race, background, language, socioeconomic status, or zip code, has access to a high-quality education and vibrant learning opportunities to succeed,' Commissioner Fletcher said. 'That means removing barriers, expanding support for English learners, and providing all students with the resources they need to thrive. Our schools must be places where every child feels supported and challenged to reach their full potential. We will continue to work with educators, families, and communities to build an education system that is responsive and relentlessly focused on student success.'
Initially, the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) asked education leaders around the nation to sign the form within 10 days of receiving it, but the deadline was extended to April 24.
The commissioner said the KDE would agree to submit the form to the OCR by April 24 because each district in the state has already been complying with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, including Title VI.
'As previously recommended, school districts should consult with board counsel on whether the district will sign the Certification Form,' Fletcher said.
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The state superintendent asked school districts that choose to sign the form ending their DEI programs to do so by 5 p.m. on April 18th.
'I am confident that through our statewide commitment to providing opportunity and access for every student, we can advance towards meeting the needs and ensuring the success of each student in Kentucky's public schools,' Fletcher wrote.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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