Horne Issues Stark Warning to Schools Post-Kyrene District Vote on DEI Policies

Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has issued a cautionary statement to school districts following the Kyrene School District’s decision to implement a policy that emphasizes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in its operations. This decision stands in opposition to guidance provided by the U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration.

Horne warned that districts not adhering to federal DEI guidance risk losing essential federal funding. He stated, “Kyrene and any district or charter that is not taking the federal DEI guidance will lose their federal dollars.” He emphasized that the 14th Amendment prohibits discrimination based on race or ethnicity, asserting that DEI programs contradict this principle by promoting racial preferences. “Schools ignore the federal guidance at their own peril,” he added.

On April 8th, the Kyrene School District voted unanimously to implement its “Staff Social Emotional Wellness Policy,” prioritizing an inclusive educational environment despite the consequences. This policy could result in a loss of over $1.5 million in federal funding, a significant sacrifice for the district.

The U.S. Department of Education’s guidance, issued in February, highlights that non-compliance with federal civil rights laws may lead to potential funding losses. It criticized DEI initiatives for promoting divisive racial narratives and stigmatizing students based on stereotypes.

The DOE noted that, while some programs may seem neutral, a deeper examination often reveals racial motivations driving their implementation. It referenced the recent Supreme Court decision in *Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard*, reinforcing that racial classification in school contexts is inherently problematic unless addressing specific past discrimination or immediate safety threats.

In his address, Horne expressed concern about a philosophical divide in the country over merit versus racial entitlement. He asserted, “DEI is all about racial entitlement,” warning that prioritizing such policies could lead to mediocrity and diminish the nation’s standing. He recently confirmed Arizona’s stance against race-based programs in a letter to the Department of Education.

Horne concluded his remarks by asserting the importance of individual merit, cautioning against the adoption of policies that could hinder progress and prosperity.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on social media for his latest stories or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.