DEI policy risks Kyrene district's $1.5M federal funding

The Kyrene School District faces losing $1.5 million in federal funding because of a newly implemented Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy. This policy is in conflict with guidance from the U.S. Department of Education. State Superintendent Tom Horne stated the district's "staff social emotional wellness policy" promoting workplace diversity violates federal guidelines. The district has four Title I schools, which serve low-income students and rely on this funding. The district has not yet commented on the potential loss of funds. The money is earmarked for the next school year, and the loss could impact educational resources for vulnerable students.