A vote to repeal ‘R277-328 Educational Equity’ was rejected by a narrow 7-8 vote by the Utah State Board of Education during an hours-long debate on January 11, 2024.
After several attempts to amend a new draft of the rule, the board agreed to postpone further discussion until February 2024.
UEA expressed strong opposition to repealing the rule. UEA President Renée Pinkney spoke during public comment, emphasizing the importance of educational equity, transparency and open discourse in shaping public education in Utah. Pinkney highlighted that every child, regardless of their background, deserves a safe, supported and well-resourced classroom.
"Our educators should not be left in a vulnerable position. The equity rule must not be repealed," Pinkney said to board members.
UEA strongly opposed repealing the rule, highlighting three critical concerns for educators and students across the state.
- Threat to Essential Professional Learning: The existing rule mandates school districts to provide essential professional learning on educational equity. The potential repeal puts educators at unnecessary risk during an ongoing debate about diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.
- Lack of Transparency in Curriculum Adoption: One of the critical safeguards provided by the rule is the requirement for districts to adopt specific curricula in open, public board meetings. This transparency shields educators from potential parental concerns as they implement the adopted district curriculum in the classroom.
- Preservation of Classroom Discussions: The existing rule explicitly emphasizes that there is no ban on discussing "events, ideas, attitudes, beliefs, or concepts" in the classroom. This provision ensures that classrooms remain spaces for rich discussions and continuous learning, preserving the integrity of education.
The repeal request came from state board members Christina Boggess, Emily Green and Joseph Kerry.
