Major U.S. School Districts Face Federal Funding Cuts Over DEI Policies

The Trump administration's push to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in U.S. schools could lead to significant federal funding losses for major school districts, totaling over $5 billion annually for the largest five districts alone. A letter from the Department of Education warns that state education agencies must remove DEI initiatives to avoid funding cuts, citing a recent Supreme Court ruling that deems race-based affirmative action illegal. This move has drawn criticism from educators and advocates, who express concerns over its potential impact on low-income and marginalized students. In areas like San Francisco, where Title I schools rely heavily on federal funds, the proposed cuts threaten to exacerbate existing educational inequities. School officials across various districts, including Los Angeles and New Bedford, are voicing alarm over the dismantling of federal support crucial for programs that aid vulnerable student populations. The situation has ignited a broader debate about the future of education and equity in the United States under the current administration.