During the recent FPS Board of Education meeting on September 30, 2025, a significant proposal was presented advocating for a shift away from formal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. The speaker emphasized the potential benefits of transitioning to frameworks that prioritize fairness, belonging, and merit-based decision-making.

The proposal outlined several key advantages of this transition. Firstly, it aims to promote objective and fair decision-making by moving from identity-based metrics to data-driven frameworks. This approach is expected to enhance fairness, transparency, and trust within the community. Secondly, the speaker highlighted that a merit-based system would reassure stakeholders that opportunities are earned based on performance, thereby building trust among community members.

Additionally, the proposal suggests that adopting neutral systems could reduce the risk of backlash or legal challenges, as they are less likely to be perceived as divisive. This shift could also mitigate vulnerabilities related to funding loss or litigation. Importantly, the speaker noted that maintaining inclusion while avoiding polarizing language is crucial. By focusing on belonging for all, the proposal aims to uphold inclusion goals without inciting political controversy.

In summary, the speaker argued that transitioning from formal DEI programs to objective frameworks, combined with inclusive language centered on belonging, could uphold fairness, enhance trust, and support the needs of every student. The discussion reflects a growing interest in re-evaluating educational policies to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for all students.