Eau Claire school board unanimously adopts revised equity statement

The Eau Claire Area School District board unanimously approved a revised equity statement at its regular meeting, with board members reading the document aloud before a roll-call vote.

The statement, introduced and read in sections by board members including Commissioner Thao and Dr. Farrar, affirms the district’s commitment to addressing systemic inequalities, prioritizing equity in governance and curriculum, and increasing diverse hiring. Superintendent Mike Johnson and board leaders told the room the statement will guide future policy and training.

Commissioner Dement moved to approve the redrafted statement and Commissioner Farrar seconded; the motion passed on a roll-call vote in which each participating commissioner recorded “yes.” Chair Nordine urged administration and staff to continue training and to use the statement as a foundation for measurable change.

Board members described the action as a reaffirmation of earlier work and a directive to continue equity-focused professional development, hiring efforts and outreach to historically marginalized families. The board said it would treat the statement as a preamble to governing policies and expect administration to propose next steps for implementation and accountability.

The board took the vote immediately after the reading; there was no separate amendment or formal revision proposed during the meeting. The board did not take public testimony on the motion during the adoption vote, although dozens of public commenters earlier in the evening had urged support for equity-aligned partnerships and programs.

The board adjourned after additional reports and budget discussion. The administration said it will proceed to implement training and to provide updates as part of its regular reporting cycle.