Education Department letter threatens federal funding of any school that considers race in most aspects of student life | CNN Politics

Education Department letter threatens federal funding of any school that considers race in most aspects of student life
By Aileen Graef and Isabelle D’Antonio, CNN, 3 minute read
Published 6:17 PM EST, Sun February 16, 2025

CNN — The Department of Education sent a “Dear Colleague” letter Friday threatening the federal funding of any academic institution that considers race in most aspects of student life.

The letter — geared toward all preschool, elementary, secondary and postsecondary educational institutions, as well as state educational agencies that receive financial assistance from the federal government — laid out a sweeping and controversial interpretation of federal law following the 2023 Supreme Court decision that gutted affirmative action.

It’s almost certain to draw legal challenges.“Federal law thus prohibits covered entities from using race in decisions pertaining to admissions, hiring, promotion, compensation, financial aid, scholarships, prizes, administrative support, discipline, housing, graduation ceremonies, and all other aspects of student, academic, and campus life,” wrote Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights for the Education Department.

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