APRIL 18, 2025 TRUMP Presidential action: "Ending radical indoctrination in K-12 schooling" HEATHER HALE U-M student contributor On January 29, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14190, titled "Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling," aiming to reshape the educational landscape by addressing concerns over certain instructional content in schools. This executive order is part of a broader policy agenda that includes additional executive actions school focused on expanding choice and regulating campus activism. The administration's policy framework, known as Agenda 47, introduces measures to reduce federal funding for programs that incorporate critical race theory and discussions on gender ideology, reinforcing a vision of education centered on “traditional” American values. Key provisions of Executive Order 14190 The executive order encompasses several significant directives: Prohibition of Specific Educational Content: Schools are barred from teaching materials deemed "anti-American" or "subversive," including critical race theory, discussions on systemic racism, gender identity, and any curriculum suggesting the United States has a fundamentally oppressive history. Historical events such as slavery and segregation may only be discussed within a "patriotic framework," emphasizing national progress rather than ongoing systemic issues. Law Enforcement Involvement: Educational institutions suspected of promoting prohibited content may face investigations conducted by federal oversight committees. Teachers facilitating discussions on gender identity, systemic racism or using students' preferred pronouns risk suspension, termination or even legal charges for violating the order. Funding Revocation: Schools that fail to comply with the order's provisions risk losing federal funding, including Title I funding, which supports low-income students. This measure is intended to enforce adherence to the policy and deter school districts from incorporating restricted content. Reinstatement of the 1776 Commission: The order revives the 1776 Commission, an initiative promoting "patriotic education." Originally established in 2020 during Trump’s first term, the commission aimed to counter what it described as a leftwing distortion of American history by emphasizing the nation's founding principles and achievements. It was disbanded by President Joe Biden in 2021, as critics argued that it presented a historically inaccurate and overly celebratory view of American history while downplaying issues like slavery and systemic racism. Schools receiving federal funds must now integrate materials from the commission into their history curricula, prioritizing narratives that highlight American exceptionalism. Impacts on educational institutions The implementation of this order has led to significant changes within educational organizations. Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Learning Media removed LGBTQ+ educational resources and closed its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office. The Department of Education has undergone extensive restructuring, with significant cuts to research programs and financial aid services, raising concerns about access to higher education for underprivileged students. Ann Arbor, known for its progressive educational values, has been deeply affected by the executive order. Ann Arbor Public Schools has opposed the order, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity while simultaneously grappling with potential federal funding losses. In response, the district has implemented protective measures, such as offering after-school discussion groups where students can engage in conversations on race and identity outside of federally regulated curricula. The district has also partnered with local advocacy organizations to provide legal resources for educators who face penalties under the new directives. At the University of Michigan, faculty and students have expressed strong opposition to the order. The university has joined national coalitions challenging the order’s restrictions on academic freedom, with student protests erupting on campus and faculty members releasing statements emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in education. Local educator’s experience One tangible example of the order's effects can be seen in the case of Olivia Martinez, a history teacher at Huron High School in Ann Arbor. Martinez was placed on administrative leave after assigning a reading on the impact of redlining and systemic racism in housing policy. Despite the reading being based on peer-reviewed historical research, it was flagged as "anti-American" under the executive order’s provisions. The incident has sparked outrage among students and parents, with petitions calling for her reinstatement and legal organizations stepping in to provide support. This executive order has sparked a wide range of reactions. Supporters argue that the order is essential for protecting children from exposure to controversial topics and reinforcing traditional values. On the other hand, critics contend that it suppresses free speech, marginalizes LGBTQ+ students, and limits discussions on race and identity. Legal challenges are anticipated, with several organizations asserting that the order is unconstitutional. As the nation continues to grapple with these changes, the future of educational policy remains a contested battleground. GROUNDCOVER NEWS 5 What’s Happening at the Ann Arbor District Library Open 10am–8pm Daily Hang out in any of our five locations across town, browsing books, magazines, newspapers, and more, or check out movies, CDs, art prints, musical instruments, and home tools— you name it! Study and meeting rooms, fast and free WiFi, and plenty of places to sit and hang out Washtenaw Library for the Blind & Print Disabled at AADL This free service loans books, magazines, & videos in alternative formats (audiobooks, large print, braille books & magazines, and descriptive video) to individuals who are unable to read or use standard printed materials. Visit aadl.org/wlbpd/apply to apply. Public Computers The AADL has public-access Internet computers available for use by both cardholders and noncardholders at all five locations. Each station has USB ports, headphone jacks, and some of the fastest wifi speeds in town! FEATURED EVENT Sunday, May 4 • 11am–4pm Downtown Library You don’t need to travel to a galaxy far, far away to celebrate May the Fourth. Come to the Downtown Library for themed photo ops, games, storytime, crafts, screenings, and music! Check out aadl.org/starwarsday for more!
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