The U.S. Department of Education (ED) has strongly criticized a recent Associated Press (AP) article that accused the department of neglecting Black students. The ED described the headline as “inaccurate and dangerous,” arguing that it misrepresents the department’s efforts to ensure fairness and equality in education for all students.
Department’s Response
In a statement posted on X, the ED highlighted that it is typical for the AP to frame its civil rights investigations as racial issues, whereas the department sees academic struggles affecting students of all races. The department emphasized its commitment to addressing educational disparities without discriminating against any racial group.
The AP report criticized the current administration for allegedly reversing efforts to remedy systemic discrimination against Black and other minority students. It pointed out that the ED had withdrawn funding from certain districts that used it to create magnet schools aimed at increasing diversity.
Legal and Policy Implications
The AP article further claimed that the Trump administration’s actions represent a significant shift in legal history, with civil rights lawyers arguing that efforts to address inequities for students of color are now being portrayed as discriminatory against white students. The report noted that programs previously deemed legal are now quickly labeled as “illegal DEI”—diversity, equity, and inclusion—by the administration.
Specific cases mentioned include investigations into the Chicago Public Schools and Los Angeles Unified School District’s programs focused on Black student success. The ED’s Office of Civil Rights had issued a letter to Chicago Public Schools, stating that its Black Student Success Plan violated anti-discrimination laws by exclusively serving Black students.
Broader Context
The ED’s response underscores its stance that allocating resources disproportionately to students of one race infringes upon the basic fairness all students deserve, as well as violating civil rights law. The department maintains that its actions are aimed at ensuring equal opportunities for all students, regardless of race.
The AP did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Fox News Digital regarding the ED’s critique of its report.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
