Communications

Easy to read summaries of important industry communication for management staff at LEAs

February 21, 2025

CDE Response to Dear Colleague Letter

"On February 21, 2025, Tony Thurmond, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction for California, addressed County and District Superintendents, Charter School Administrators, Early Education Directors, and School Principals regarding the implications of a February 14 “Dear Colleague Letter” from the U.S. Department of Education. This letter suggested that schools should eliminate any educational programs recognizing race or risk losing federal funding. Thurmond emphasized that the letter is not legally binding, as it does not constitute law or an enforcement mechanism, and explicitly states that it does not create new legal standards. Additionally, he clarified the thorough legal process required for the revocation of federal funds that goes beyond the letter's recommendations. He reassured recipients that existing laws already prohibit discrimination in public schools based on multiple factors, including race and gender, and pointed out that the federal government has yet to take concrete action in relation to the letter. Lastly, Thurmond expressed gratitude to local educational leaders for their dedication and urged them to report any impacts resulting from federal actions that affect educational services."