Virginia Beach School Board faces backlash over DEI policy changes

The Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) Board meeting on May 27, 2025, featured passionate discussions surrounding the district's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. The meeting highlighted a growing divide among board members and community members regarding the future of these initiatives.

One of the most notable moments came from Natalie Bray, a parent of two VBCPS students, who urged the board to reconsider the April 8 resolution that suspended changes to the equity policy. Bray expressed frustration over the board's apparent disregard for community feedback, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue to find common ground. She argued that DEI principles align with Christian values of compassion and justice, advocating for their continued presence in school policies.

Valerina Davis, another speaker, criticized the board for past decisions that she believes have marginalized LGBTQ students. She highlighted the historical context of civil rights and the ongoing need for DEI initiatives to ensure that all students feel respected and included. Davis's remarks underscored the potential consequences of removing DEI language from school policies, warning that it could lead to confusion and insecurity among students and teachers.

Mindy Freeman took a satirical approach to her speech, questioning the board's commitment to DEI and suggesting that the focus should remain on fundamental educational subjects. She also called out board member Dwyer for her phone use during meetings, suggesting it reflected a lack of engagement with the community's concerns.

Heather Sipe, president of the Virginia Beach Education Association, reinforced the importance of educational equity, arguing that it is about providing all students with equal access to quality education tailored to their diverse needs. She cautioned that removing DEI components from policy would misalign staff evaluations and undermine the district's commitment to inclusivity.

The meeting concluded with a clear call from several speakers for the board to uphold DEI policies, emphasizing their significance in fostering a supportive educational environment for all students. As the board continues to navigate these discussions, the community remains engaged and vocal about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in their schools.