Arizona Department Of Education Superintendent Tom Horne | Arizona Dpt. of Education Official Website
The U.S. Department of Education has launched a new informational website, focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) compliance. However, the site remains provisional as its guidance is currently subject to several court challenges. Consequently, the department has stated to state education agencies, including Arizona's Department of Education (AZED), that "the Department will take no further action concerning the Title VI Certification Letter (DEI) unless and until further notice is provided."
Arizona's State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Horne, commented on the situation. He affirmed his commitment to law compliance, declaring his intention to adhere to the Department of Education's current position of taking no action until further notice. He stated, “I am committed to following the law and will abide by the latest guidance from the U.S. Department of Education to take no action against schools until further notice."
Horne has also emphasized the importance of transparency. He plans to provide a list of districts and charter schools that have responded to previous DEI guidance. He expressed his views on federal law, stating, "Federal law and the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution are clear that no person shall be discriminated because of race, skin color or ethnicity, and this guidance aligns completely with my philosophy."
While expressing alignment with federal law, Horne criticized DEI programs, claiming they instead promote discrimination. He concluded by expressing confidence in the judicial process, saying, "I believe the DEI guidance will eventually be upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court and districts and charter schools need to treat this issue seriously."
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