WOODBRIDGE, N.J. — A public speaker at the Sept. 18 Woodbridge Township Board of Education meeting urged the board to reconsider what he described as diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programming and warned of potential state funding consequences; board members said the district is following state-required equity planning and clarified how district-run programs operate.

Tom Mares (commenter) said the district’s job description changes and equity programs could be construed as DEI, and he urged the board to reconsider such programs. "DEI by any other name is a divisive program," he said during public comment, citing concerns that critics of DEI have been "silenced, disciplined, or branded as harmful." He urged the board to "reexamine these programs" and argued that state pressure could affect federal funding streams.

Board members and officials responded at length. Miss Anderson said the district does not have a director of DEI and that the language in the new job description was altered for clarity; she said the district is implementing the state-mandated comprehensive equity plan, which includes assistance for students with language needs, tutoring and supports for students experiencing homelessness. She added that affinity clubs in the district are "open to all students." Miss Borden said she participates in some programs and described them as supportive rather than coercive.

No policy change or vote followed the exchange. Board members said they would continue to implement state requirements and to ensure student supports are available while engaging with community concerns.