A Massachusetts school district is revising its approach to education following criticism from parents concerned about the impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The shift comes after a group of mothers in Newton, a suburb of Boston, challenged the district's policies, sparking a contentious debate.
According to a report in The Boston Globe, the mothers, all Democrats, initially questioned changes implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a focus on "dismantling structures rooted in racism" and achieving "more equitable outcomes." Among the most controversial changes were "multilevel" classrooms, which combined students of varying academic levels in the same class, ostensibly to address racial disparities in honors courses.
These mothers questioned the academic impact of these policies, particularly the multilevel classes and the restriction on advanced math students skipping grades. They also expressed concern that the emphasis on racial identity fostered division rather than unity, and that "equity" was being interpreted as equal outcomes rather than fairness.
Their concerns resonated with other parents, many of whom reportedly hesitated to speak publicly for fear of being labeled racist. The mothers faced significant opposition when they initiated a petition for an advisory panel to give parents more input on academic matters. They were accused of bigotry and aligning with right-wing groups. School officials often defended the policies by citing the district’s commitment to racial equity.
However, the tide appears to be turning. Teachers are now reportedly pushing back against the multilevel classrooms, citing their ineffectiveness for students of all levels. Parents have echoed these concerns, with one school committee member stating he hadn't heard a single positive account of a child benefiting from multilevel learning.
While acknowledging the need for change, the new superintendent, Anna Nolin, cautioned that reform takes time. The district is working to establish separate academic levels and implement systems for curriculum development and student assessment, which were reportedly lacking. Nolin is also prioritizing rebuilding trust with parents through a new Office of Family Engagement. Recognizing the divisiveness of the current motto, "Equity & Excellence," the district plans to replace it with "Where All Children Thrive."
