Superintendent: Bedford files assurance with state on non‑discrimination after federal directive on DEI
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Summary
Superintendent Mr. DuPair told the board April 10 the division filed an assurance letter with the Virginia Department of Education on April 7 to document compliance with federal nondiscrimination requirements tied to Executive Order 14173.
Superintendent Mr. DuPair told the board April 10 that Bedford County Public Schools filed an assurance letter with the Virginia Department of Education on April 7 in response to a U.S. Department of Education request arising from Executive Order 14173 (issued Jan. 21, 2025) concerning diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices and compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
DuPair said the department’s request — carried out locally by the Virginia Department of Education — asked school divisions to state positions on the use of DEI approaches and to show compliance with federal nondiscrimination requirements. He noted the district’s current instructional policy (referred to in the meeting as Policy I and B, relating to teaching about controversial issues) affirms equal treatment and states that no race, ethnicity, religion, disability status or other protected characteristic is inherently superior or inferior to another.
DuPair said Bedford will continue to provide resources for students with disabilities, English learners and gifted programs, and that the district has filed an assurance letter substantiating its commitment to nondiscrimination. He told board members litigation is expected as courts address related federal executive orders and legal challenges, but that the division has taken steps to adhere to nondiscriminatory practices.
The superintendent also used his report to preview operational items: the division declared its SOL testing window will open on April 21 and run through May 16 (with retake options in the last week of school), and he listed facility projects and upcoming construction work across the division that staff will pursue during the summer.
DuPair concluded his remarks by thanking teachers and staff for the school year and said future superintendent reports will highlight progress toward the district’s strategic goals on a rotating monthly basis.
