Federal compliance stressed for Arizona schools to receive funding

Tom Horne, President | Arizona Department of Education

Tom Horne emphasized the importance of complying with federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, skin color, or ethnicity, aligning with his philosophy. He remarked, "Title VI of federal civil rights law is clear that no person shall be discriminated on the basis of race, skin color or ethnicity, and this aligns completely with my philosophy. The 14th amendment to the Constitution says the same thing."

Horne criticized Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, asserting they promote racial discrimination, which he believes has no place in education or society. He highlighted efforts to remove such programs from Arizona schools, explaining that schools are required to respect all students as individuals, a requirement reflected in their School Report Cards. Horne stated, "We are all individuals entitled to be judged by what we know, what we can do and our character, and not by our race."

He expressed support for the U.S. Department of Education's guidance, stating, "I agree with this guidance from the U.S. Department of Education because it upholds the 14th amendment to the Constitution and the laws that protect people from discrimination."

By the end of the day, the department will distribute a document from the U.S. Department of Education. This document demands that all public schools confirm their compliance with the guidance to continue receiving federal funding. Schools must respond by April 14.