'We are not going backward.' Washington schools chief tells districts to maintain DEI programs despite Trump threat

Washington’s top education leader says schools shouldn’t make any changes in response to the Trump administration’s recent edict to axe race-based initiatives by the end of the month.

In a statement Thursday, State Superintendent Chris Reykdal said although diversity, equity, and inclusion have “unfortunately been weaponized,” the idea has long been a core component of the education system.

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“These principles are the reason we provide a high-quality public education to all young people from all backgrounds and walks of life,” Reykdal wrote. “Public education is a civil right in our country, and that in itself is DEI. I’m proud of the work we’ve done in Washington state, and we are not going backward.”

Late last week, the U.S. Department of Education sent colleges and K-12 schools across the nation a “Dear Colleague” letter giving officials two weeks to halt all race-based programs — or risk potentially losing federal funding. These programs include things like scholarships, financial aid, hiring and admissions practices, affinity groups, and graduation ceremonies.

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And on his first day back in the White House, President Donald Trump also signed an executive order calling for the termination of all “discriminatory” and “illegal” DEI and accessibility mandates, policies, programs, preferences, and activities in the federal government and federally funded institutions.

On Thursday, Reykdal said “Dear Colleague” letters “do not hold the power of law.” He also pointed out that, since 1998, Washington state law has banned discrimination or preferential treatment in public education on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin.

“I've advised Washington’s school districts that they should not make changes to their existing policies, practices, and programming in accordance with this letter,” Reykdal wrote. “There are legal paths for the federal government to restrict federal funding, and a Dear Colleague Letter is not one of those paths.”

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Reykdal said the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction is working with the Attorney General’s Office as they consider legal options if federal funding is frozen or removed from the state’s K-12 schools based on the letter.

Since the letter came out last week — and Trump took office last month — education leaders have been grappling with how to adapt to possible federal policy changes.

A handful of Washington college and K-12 school officials said Thursday they're waiting for further guidance before making changes — and some are sending reassurances.

At the University of Washington, a spokesperson said they're still in the process of reviewing the letter and assessing possible impacts. In the meantime, officials won't take any "preemptive actions."

"The University of Washington does not view diversity and access as being in opposition to merit and excellence, and we remain committed to providing access to excellence for all," the spokesperson said in a statement.

Earlier this month, Robert J. Jones, the incoming president of the UW, pledged to take a measured approach that balances federal compliance with upholding the school's commitment to equity.

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Leaders of Seattle University and Western Washington University expressed similar sentiments in separate community messages on Thursday.

"Regardless of the challenges ahead, WWU’s commitment remains the same: ensuring that every student — regardless of background — can succeed and thrive, and that every employee has the opportunity to contribute their full potential in a respectful work environment," wrote Jacqueline Hughes, Western Washington University's chief diversity officer.

In a statement, a Seattle Public Schools spokesperson said the district will follow the latest guidance from OSPI and will continue to uphold its values.

"Seattle Public Schools is deeply committed to fostering an environment where every student, regardless of race, class, or other personal characteristics, has an equitable educational experience and graduates college, career, and life ready," the spokesperson wrote.

The Highline School District had a similar message. Tove Tupper, chief communications officer, said the district will continue to upholding state law and district policies, while also "protecting the rights and dignity of all students, families, and staff."

"Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not political statements — they are core values that help us serve every student," she said. "We will not allow federal directives or guidance to disrupt our commitment to educational equity."