SUSD Board Must Face Consequences for Breaching ‘No DEI’ Pledge

By Mike Bengert |

The Arizona Department of Education has launched an investigation into the Scottsdale Unified School District’s (SUSD) new social studies curriculum. This follows numerous complaints about the curriculum’s content and was announced by Arizona State Superintendent Tom Horne on June 11. Horne indicated that SUSD’s curriculum appears to violate a commitment to avoid teaching Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) material.

Horne specifically criticized three “woke” members of the SUSD Governing Board who supported the curriculum. Superintendent Scott Menzel challenged this labeling, describing it as unfounded and misleading without a comprehensive assessment of the extensive 1,250-page textbook. Menzel labeled this debate as “a problem from his perspective.”

The term “woke” has evolved significantly, originally highlighting awareness of social injustices, particularly around race. However, it is often perceived now as a term denoting excessive social consciousness or ideological rigidity. The validity of calling the board members “woke” remains contentious.

Member Sharkey’s initial campaign emphasized the parents’ rights movement, an agenda he claims has troubled SUSD. Sharkey dismisses the idea that parents are best suited to make educational decisions for their children, suggesting an inclination towards central governance devoid of parental influence.

Dr. Donna Lewis, President of the SUSD Governing Board, boasts impressive educational credentials, including recognition as national superintendent of the year.However, her leadership in the past has faced allegations of creating a negative atmosphere among staff, leading to a public apology from a fellow board member.

Dr. Pittinsky, a board member with extensive experience in public education, has faced scrutiny over undisclosed business ties to SUSD. His decision to enroll his own child in a private school instead of within the SUSD system raises questions about his commitment.

These three board members appear aligned with Menzel’s “woke” DEI initiatives, prompting skepticism regarding their independence in decision-making.

Superintendent Menzel’s prior leadership in Michigan’s Washtenaw Intermediate School District reflects a strong focus on social justice and equity. His comments regarding entrenched white supremacy prompted significant backlash from Arizona Republican legislators, who labeled them inflammatory and inappropriate for an educational leader.

In addition to Horne’s concerns, Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan has criticized elements of the new curriculum for perceived anti-police sentiments. Textbook statements linking police brutality to systemic racism and underscoring racial disparities have sparked debate over the curriculum’s impartiality. Critics argue that the material fails to offer a balanced view and lacks essential context regarding key incidents, which could misinform students.

Menzel contends that the curriculum promotes critical thinking and diverse viewpoints. Nevertheless, opponents assert that it veers toward indoctrination, limiting dissenting opinions and undermining educational integrity.

Based on the curriculum’s content and the actions of the governing board, the characterization of its members and Menzel as “woke” may hold merit. Menzel’s insistence on the neutrality of the curriculum raises eyebrows, with critics warning against perceived evasions.

Concerned citizens are urged to engage with board members regarding the potential ramifications of this radical curriculum. If implemented, it could threaten SUSD’s funding amid existing financial struggles due to declining enrollment, which some attribute to Menzel’s policies.

As SUSD navigates these challenges, the necessity for leadership reevaluation becomes apparent. The implications of the ongoing curriculum controversy could potentially jeopardize the district’s future, raising urgent questions about educational priorities moving forward.

Mike Bengert is a husband, father, grandfather, and Scottsdale resident advocating for quality education in SUSD for over 30 years.