🎓 DEI Under Fire, Superintendents on the Move, and a Call from Space

May 26, 2025 | Memorial Day Edition

🏛️ FEDERAL & STATE POLICY

📌 Texas House Approves DEI Ban in Public Schools

The Texas House has passed Senate Bill 12, which prohibits Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in public schools. Supporters argue that DEI programs promote political agendas, while opponents express concerns about the potential impact on inclusivity and representation in education. 

📈 Nevada Leaders Propose Divergent Education Reforms

Governor Joe Lombardo and Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro have presented contrasting visions for improving Nevada’s education system. Lombardo emphasizes school accountability measures, while Cannizzaro advocates for increased funding, including a proposed $105 million investment in early childhood education and teacher apprenticeship programs. 

🏫 DISTRICT & SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

🏫 North Carolina House Budget Proposes Teacher Pay Raises

The North Carolina House has released a budget proposal that includes pay raises for teachers, with higher increases for beginning educators. The plan aims to address teacher retention and recruitment challenges across the state. 

🌊 Environmental Literacy Programs Expand in Chesapeake Watershed

Environmental literacy initiatives are experiencing a resurgence across the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Reports indicate growth in Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences, highlighting a renewed focus on environmental education in the region. 

🔄 LEADERSHIP MOVES

📌 Superintendent Transitions

  • Justin Irish: The current superintendent of Anacortes School District in Washington, Justin Irish, has been appointed as the new superintendent of Northshore School District, effective July 1, 2025. Irish has led Anacortes for five years and previously served as assistant superintendent in Edmonds School District. 

  • Santa Rosa City Schools: The Santa Rosa City Schools Board has voted to remove Superintendent Dr. Daisy Morales following a unanimous no-confidence vote by faculty and significant community pushback related to school closures and administrative decisions. 

🎓 STUDENT & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

🧑‍🚀 Astronaut Anne McClain to Connect with Students from ISS

Spokane-born astronaut U.S. Army Col. Anne McClain is scheduled to engage with students via a live Earth-to-space video call from the International Space Station on Tuesday. This event aims to inspire students’ interest in science and space exploration. 

🏆 United South Central School Board Honors Community Members

John and Cindy Herman were recognized at the United South Central School Board meeting on May 20 for their significant contributions and efforts within the school community. 

📌 ACTION ITEMS FOR SUPERINTENDENTS

  • Review: Assess the implications of Texas’s DEI ban and consider proactive measures to support diversity and inclusion within your district.

  • Engage: Stay informed about proposed education reforms in your state and participate in discussions to advocate for policies that benefit your schools.

  • Plan: Prepare for leadership transitions by developing succession plans and ensuring continuity in district initiatives.

  • Inspire: Leverage events like the ISS video call to promote STEM education and student engagement in your schools.

📱 Social Media Trends

🧵 Educator Voices on DEI Ban in Texas

@Dr_KHallTX, a Houston-area principal, posted:

“Removing DEI isn’t neutral—it’s erasure. Our kids deserve schools where they all feel seen.”

The thread sparked over 12K likes and 3K retweets, drawing wide commentary from educators, board members, and students across the state.

🎥 TikTok: STEM in Space Goes Viral

Clips of astronaut Anne McClain’s upcoming ISS video call are trending under #STEMTalks and #GirlsInSTEM. Teachers are posting classroom prep videos and creating event buzz for livestream viewings.

🔄 Reddit: “How do you lead during culture war policies?”

A top thread in r/education drew 200+ comments discussing how administrators navigate politically charged policies (like DEI bans) while maintaining staff trust and morale.

Top comment: “You either set the tone, or the tone sets you.”

From DEI debates to district shakeups—and even a live call from space—today’s headlines will shape how we lead tomorrow.

Forward today’s SuperBrief to your board and leadership team—because the biggest shifts in public education rarely stay local.🏃‍♂️💛

See you tomorrow.

Ram