Beaverton School District reaffirms commitment to diversity amidst federal compliance pressure

The Beaverton School District held its School Board Business Meeting on April 8, 2025, focusing on key updates and community concerns. The meeting commenced with Superintendent Dr. Valdez delivering his report, which included significant developments regarding compliance with federal anti-discrimination regulations.

Dr. Valdez informed attendees that the U.S. Department of Education had issued a letter requiring the Oregon Department of Education to certify compliance with Title VI anti-discrimination rules within ten days. He emphasized that this directive does not alter existing state or federal laws, reaffirming the district's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. He stated, "We educate all kids that come through our doors and support our families that come to us," highlighting the district's ongoing efforts to create an inclusive environment for all students.

The superintendent also addressed upcoming events, including the May election, which will feature four school board positions. A candidate forum is scheduled for April 24, open to the public and live-streamed. Additionally, Dr. Valdez announced that the district's budget proposal would be presented on May 13, with plans for modest adjustments and discussions on long-term solutions to address a structural budget deficit.

Following the superintendent's report, public comments were made by representatives from employee associations. Katie Lubins, vice president of the Beaverton Education Association (BEA), expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and collaboration in decision-making processes. She highlighted the potential risks associated with the federal directive regarding diversity and inclusion policies, stating that compliance could jeopardize essential federal funding for vulnerable students.

Kirsty Sackman, president-elect of the Oregon School Classified Association (OSCA), echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of supporting all students and the need for accountability in the district's leadership. She acknowledged the challenges faced by classified staff and praised their dedication to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for students.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and collaboration among educators, staff, and the community to uphold the values of equity and inclusion in public education. The board's next steps will involve addressing the concerns raised during public comments and preparing for the upcoming budget discussions and elections.