School board faces backlash over critical race theory funding

In a recent school board meeting, discussions centered around a proposed $45,000 contract for a new collective focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training. This initiative follows a similar program from the previous year, which included a two-hour training session led by a consulting group specializing in racial equity strategies.

Concerns were raised by board members regarding the potential influence of critical race theory (CRT) within the district's educational framework. One member expressed apprehension that the focus on identity in DEI training could indicate an underlying presence of CRT, which they described as \"anti-American.\" This sentiment echoes previous discussions held three years ago, where board members sought assurances that CRT was not part of the curriculum.

Superintendent Priscilla clarified the funding sources for the proposed contract, noting that it would not impact the general fund. The breakdown revealed that $18,000 would come from an ethnic studies grant designated for training related to a new ethnic studies course, with additional funds sourced from previous grants and the district's Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) aimed at enhancing DEI efforts.

The board ultimately voted in favor of the contract, passing it with a unanimous 5-0 decision. The meeting concluded with a transition to discussion items, indicating ongoing engagement with the topics of diversity and educational content within the district.