Kirkwood School District continues to push DEI and affinity groups in “Staff of Color” newsletter despite President Trump’s executive orders

The Kirkwood School District has a “Staff of Color Newsletter” dated January 2025 that appears to push back against President Donald Trump’s executive orders prohibiting DEI in public schools. The staff member who wrote the first part of the newsletter has her title as “Master Mentor for Kirkwood Teachers of Color.” She states in the newsletter:

This school year I have seen more progress in our teachers of color staff hirings and equally excited that we have now hired eight administrators of color across the district. This increase in staff of color definitely shows that as a district we are valuing our Priority Goal: Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. With that said, “DEI” has become increasingly controversial in recent political discourse, even though the outcome is to promote inclusivity and fairness.

She then states: “Contrary to our current political climate, it appears that not only do our students of color need to see educators of color, but our white students also need more information about race and racism, not less. Children are the future and without diversity representation, there will be gaps, and we will all pay the price.” She adds:

As I reflect on my own experiences from being a classroom teacher, interventionist, coach, volunteer, parent and now as a substitute teacher, I have had such a wide perspective on the pre-established roles assigned by the racial constructs that perpetuate racism. We need to continue to support Diversity Equity and Inclusion in our district to help all children build authentic relationships with one another, no matter the color of the skin. This develops racial competence, racial identity and strong academic outcomes for all children.

She also promoted affinity groups in the newsletter. Affinity groups are groups of people segregated by their characteristics, such as race and ethnicity. She states: “These opportunities in the way of Affinity groups, which are diverse in many ways. Many of the groups sharing a common interest, racial identity, ideology, gender or a shared hobby, academic or social identity. However, this collaboration is formed, I thank the leaders for taking the time to help staff and students feel included and valued.”

Another author of the newsletter outright attacks President Trump’s executive orders:

Today, I find myself asking that same question again, but with a new lens: What will your outlet be as we collectively face challenges that threaten the foundations of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education? With the January 21st executive order and its potential impact on civil rights policies, our roles as educators of color take on an even greater weight. This moment demands more than reflection—it calls for unity and intentional action.

The newsletter continues to promote DEI initiatives until the end, including affinity groups for Nipher Middle School, Keysor Elementary School, North Glendale Elementary School, Robinson Elementary School, Tillman Elementary School, and Westchester Elementary School.