Wake County School Board rejects It Gets Better grant citing concerns over gender ideology

The Wake County Schools Board convened on April 8, 2025, to address several pressing issues affecting the district, including funding, educational content, and community engagement. The meeting began with a discussion surrounding a controversial grant titled "It Gets Better," which some board members expressed strong opposition to, citing concerns over its content related to gender ideology and its potential impact on students. One board member articulated that the focus should instead be on improving fundamental educational issues such as test scores, school safety, and basic infrastructure needs like HVAC systems.

The board member criticized the grant for promoting what they termed "politically charged materials," arguing that it could confuse students about their identities. They highlighted a perceived urgency from the board to adopt federal guidelines due to fears of losing funding, suggesting that genuine concern for education was being overshadowed by political agendas.

Following this, the board discussed Policy 16 10 78 dash 7,800, emphasizing the importance of transparency in educational materials. Concerns were raised about the presence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) language in the curriculum, with some members arguing that it unfairly placed blame on teachers for issues like classroom behavior and violence.

In a more positive segment of the meeting, board members celebrated the achievements of students from Wake Forest High School, who excelled at a recent state leadership conference. The accomplishments of various students were acknowledged, including awards in career investigation and job interview projects, with one student qualifying for national competition.

The meeting also included a wellness tip from a board member, who encouraged staff and students to prioritize physical health as summer approaches. They highlighted the importance of hydration and nutrition, as well as the benefits of outdoor activities.

Lastly, the board reiterated the significance of community involvement in upcoming budget discussions, inviting all members of the community to participate and share their insights. The meeting concluded with a call for unity and support for the district's educators and students, emphasizing the diverse needs of families within Wake County.