Dear Editor,
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have played a crucial role in shaping a more just and inclusive society, particularly within our education system. Yet, recent political movements to dismantle these initiatives threaten to undo the meaningful progress that has been made. As an educator with 43 years of experience, 18 of those as an elementary school principal, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact DEI efforts have had on students, families, and communities.
My career in education included working as a special education teacher for students with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, cognitive deficits, emotional disturbances, and learning differences. I also taught upper-elementary students navigating the social and emotional challenges of puberty. In my years as a principal, I saw firsthand how biases and systemic inequities affected students, particularly those from minority backgrounds.
Recognizing these challenges, I had the opportunity to serve on a school district-wide equity committee. This experience was eye-opening. Minority students, particularly Native American students in our district, faced persistent biases that hindered their academic, social, and emotional growth. These biases, often ingrained over decades, manifested in ways that negatively impacted daily interactions and student success.
The work of our committee led to significant changes, including policies and practices that alleviated learned prejudices and fostered a more inclusive school culture. We developed initiatives that embraced diversity, promoted fairness, and encouraged respect among students. These efforts had a direct impact on family engagement, as our school community became more
One of the most effective strategies we implemented was the creation of a school-based committee that planned and organized activities reinforcing the principles of equity and kindness. Monthly student-led assemblies focused on key behaviors that promote acceptance and respect. These events not only involved students but also encouraged families to participate in discussions and share their perspectives, fostering a stronger sense of community.
Incorporating DEI principles into everyday classroom discussions helped students understand the value of diversity and respectful behavior. Unacceptable behaviors were identified and addressed to ensure that students adhered to respectful interactions both within the school and beyond.
Within months of implementing these strategies, behavioral analyses showed noticeable improvements. By the end of the first year, there was a marked decline in conflicts and a significant increase in student cooperation and empathy. While some students required additional support, the overall progress was undeniable and reinforced the importance of DEI-focused education.
Despite the clear benefits of DEI initiatives, recent political efforts have sought to dismantle them. The push to eliminate DEI programs disregards the positive impact they have had on student development and school environments. It ignores the fact that these programs address real issues, including ingrained prejudices and social inequities that directly affect students’ ability to succeed.
Eliminating DEI initiatives risks reversing years of progress. Without structured efforts to promote equity and inclusion, students may revert to harmful learned behaviors, leading to increased conflicts, lower engagement, and a decline in academic success for marginalized groups.
As someone who has dedicated decades to education, I have seen the direct benefits of DEI programs in fostering respect, fairness, and inclusivity. Removing these initiatives is not just a political maneuver; it is a step backward that undermines the well-being and future of our students.
To ensure continued progress, we must advocate for policies that support diversity and inclusion in schools. Parents, educators, and community members must collaborate to highlight the tangible benefits of these programs and resist efforts to eliminate them. By doing so, we can build an educational environment where all students, regardless of background, have the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
The elimination of DEI initiatives threatens to undo the progress made in creating inclusive, equitable learning environments. My experiences as an educator have shown me that when students are taught to embrace diversity and respect one another, they flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Rather than erasing DEI programs, we should be reinforcing them, ensuring that the next generation grows up in a world where fairness, kindness, and respect are the norm.
Sincerely, Julie Schuler, Sheyenne, ND
Verified by phone, Friday, April 4 – LAO
