Julie Schuler, Sheyenne

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been vital in creating more just and inclusive schools. As an educator with 43 years of experience — 18 as an elementary principal — I’ve seen firsthand the transformative impact DEI has on students, families, and communities.

My career included teaching students with disabilities and upper-elementary students navigating complex social and emotional challenges. As a principal, I observed how systemic biases disproportionately affected minority students, especially Native American students in our district.

Serving on a district-wide equity committee opened my eyes to these persistent inequities. Our work led to significant changes — policies that reduced prejudice and promoted fairness. One key initiative was a school-based committee that planned activities around equity and kindness. Monthly student-led assemblies focused on respectful behaviors and included family participation, fostering community engagement.

Incorporating DEI into daily classroom discussions helped students value diversity and address harmful behaviors. Within months, behavioral data showed fewer conflicts and increased empathy and cooperation. The positive shift was undeniable.

Yet, despite these benefits, political efforts to dismantle DEI programs are gaining ground. Eliminating them would reverse hard-won progress, allowing inequities and learned prejudices to resurface — undermining student success.

I urge parents, educators, and communities to advocate for inclusive practices that support all students. We must resist the rollback of DEI efforts and ensure our schools remain places where fairness, kindness, and respect thrive.

Our students deserve no less.