In a strong response to a directive from the Trump administration, Washington State’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Chris Reykdal, has boldly declared that the state will not back down on its diversity and equity programs. This came after a letter from the US Department of Education threatened to withhold federal funding from schools engaging in “race-based” programs. The communication, sent by Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor on February 14, 2025, urged Washington and other states to cease efforts aimed at supporting racial equity in education or face serious consequences.
As reported by The Seattle Times, Reykdal delivered a defiant 12-minute videotaped statement on February 22, 2025, in which he voiced his objection to the federal directive. “We will not be intimidated,” he said, addressing the Trump administration’s call to end initiatives supporting diversity and equity in schools. Reykdal’s refusal to comply is seen as a significant stand against federal overreach into local education policies.
State budget and the federal threat
While the Trump administration’s letter threatens the funding for various programs, it is important to note that federal funds make up only 7% of Washington’s total K-12 education budget. This amounts to roughly $258 million for special education, $288 million for low-income students, and additional funds for school feeding programs and grants. While these funds are significant, Reykdal emphasized that most of them are allocated through formulas set by Congress and are thus not easily altered by presidential orders or executive actions.
Reykdal also pointed out that the federal government has consistently failed to meet its promised contribution of 40% toward special education costs in Washington. As reported by The Seattle Times, he called the federal government’s recent actions “politically motivated noise,” stressing that local control over education is paramount for the state.
Reykdal’s leadership and the broader challenge
Despite ongoing criticism of his leadership on student outcomes, Reykdal has defended the dual focus of public schools on both academic achievement and student well-being. The last decade has seen a rise in schools taking on roles beyond traditional education, including providing mental health services, meals, and even basic health care. As Reykdal pointed out, this broader responsibility does not diminish the importance of fostering intellectual growth, and many schools are effectively balancing these needs every day.
In his defiant message to Washington, D.C., Reykdal declared, “Back off,” underscoring his commitment to protecting the state’s education programs against federal interference. The controversy surrounding this issue is likely to continue as states navigate the complex balance between federal mandates and local educational priorities.
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