Dayton Board of Education unanimously backs superintendent’s decision not to sign DOE Title VI certification

The Dayton Board of Education on Monday unanimously approved a resolution backing Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence’s decision not to sign a U.S. Department of Education certification related to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act as the certification was presented.

The board voted 7-0 to “support Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence in his decision not to sign the certification at this time,” according to the resolution read into the record by the board president. Board Member Reiner moved the resolution; Board Member Lacey seconded. President Goodwin announced the tally: seven yes votes, no noes.

The resolution said the district remains committed to “equity, inclusivity, and legal compliance” and reaffirmed that Dayton Public Schools will continue to follow federal civil‑rights laws. The text as read referenced Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and said the U.S. Department of Education had requested signed certifications by 11:59 p.m. on April 18, 2025.

Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence told the board the decision was not taken lightly and framed it as a defense of the district’s work to identify and assist student subgroups. “All means all,” Lawrence said, summarizing the district’s approach to equity. He warned that signing the certification as drafted could subject the district to increased scrutiny and “open investigation” of practices used to identify and support groups of students who are behind academically.

Board members who spoke said they supported the superintendent and accepted the potential consequences. Board Member Smith asked the superintendent to explain possible ramifications; Lawrence estimated the affected federal funding (Titles I–VI and related federal aid) could be “close to $50,000,000,” and said the district’s treasurer could confirm the exact figure. Board Member Walker said he was proud the board had taken a public stance and quoted the late Congressman John Lewis: “it’s best to get in good and necessary trouble.”

The resolution notes the district will continue to comply with federal nondiscrimination laws and said the board will “continue to evaluate federal requirements thoughtfully and responsibly.” The board did not direct staff to change existing programs; the formal action was limited to expressing support for the superintendent’s decision and reaffirming the district’s stated commitments.

The emergency meeting record shows the district has about 13,000 students, which the superintendent cited when describing the scope of the district’s responsibilities. The resolution and board discussion also referenced a federal certification deadline of 11:59 p.m. on April 18, 2025.

Votes at a glance: Resolution supporting the superintendent’s decision not to sign the DOE Title VI certification — moved by Board Member Reiner; seconded by Board Member Lacey; outcome: approved, 7 yes, 0 no, 0 abstain.

The board adjourned after the vote.