Introduction:
The New York State Department of Education, along with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and the New York State Board of Regents (Board), are reaching out to inform Local Education Agencies (LEAs) about their duty to prioritize dignity, inclusion, and respect in educational decision-making. These principles, enshrined in law, form the basis for making well-founded educational policies.
In this collaborative guidance, the OAG and SED reaffirm New York’s dedication to ensuring all students have equal educational opportunities by assisting LEAs in crafting and implementing policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Both state and federal laws prohibit discrimination in educational institutions based on various factors such as race, color, national origin, disability, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, age, or marital status.
Discrimination and Its Adverse Effects:
Numerous laws mandate that LEAs take proactive measures to identify and address instances of discrimination and their detrimental impacts on educational opportunities for all students. Failing to assess, monitor, and adjust policies, procedures, and curricular choices as necessary may lead an LEA to breach its obligations under federal and state law. Two noteworthy state policies are the Dignity for All Students Act (Dignity Act) and the Board of Regents’ DEI policy. The Dignity Act, in effect since July 1, 2012, requires public schools to cultivate an environment where students can learn without fear of discrimination, harassment, or intimidation.
New York State Department of Education Law Pertaining to Citizenship and Character Education:
The Dignity Act also amends Section 801-a of New York State Education Law, broadening the concepts of tolerance, respect for others, and dignity. It emphasizes awareness and sensitivity in interpersonal relations, encompassing individuals of diverse races, weights, national origins, ethnic groups, religions, religious practices, mental or physical abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, and sexes. The Act was amended in 2021 to include discrimination based on race, including hairstyles and traits associated with race. In May 2021, the Board adopted a comprehensive DEI policy following the publication of a DEI framework.
New York State Department of Education’s Release of a DEI Framework:
In its policy, the Board adopted definitions of diversity, equity, and inclusion crafted by the University of California, Berkeley Center for Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity and the University of Houston’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion. It expects all school districts and higher education institutions to develop and implement DEI-promoting policies and practices with diligence and urgency.
Three Vital Examples:
Public schools cannot fulfill their legal obligations without placing DEI at the forefront of their efforts. Three critical examples include teaching and learning, student discipline, and addressing bullying and harassment.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, effective teaching and learning necessitate collaboration, adaptability, and an ongoing commitment to improvement. By fostering environments conducive to exploration, discovery, and growth, educators can empower learners to reach their full potential and become active contributors to society. It is imperative to ensure that teaching and learning practices embody principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing opportunities for all students to advance academically. The Board of Regents remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that students in New York receive the highest quality instruction, emphasizing inclusive and culturally responsive teaching and learning practices that embrace multiple perspectives and avoid perpetuating a single narrative.
