April 16, 2025
Dear Chatham County Schools Staff and Families,
I am writing to share an important update regarding a recent directive from the U.S. Department of Education, requesting that school districts reaffirm their compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This directive follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard and is tied to our continued eligibility for federal education funding.
As Superintendent, I have signed the required certification, affirming our district’s longstanding commitment to operating in full compliance with federal law. We will never discriminate based on race, color, or national origin, and we remain accountable to the legal standards that guide public education across this nation.
That said, I also feel it is my duty to speak candidly with you about what this moment means.
While we must and will comply with the law, I am deeply concerned by the suggestion—implied in recent federal messaging—that efforts to support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are inherently unlawful. Let me be clear: DEI is not illegal. Current law does not prohibit districts from creating inclusive environments or from meeting the unique needs of diverse learners.
Here in Chatham County Schools, we are proud of the rich diversity that defines our community. Through our ONE CHATHAM framework, we are committed to building a system where every student is seen, valued, and supported—where belonging is not a privilege, but a promise.
Our DEI work is not about preference; it is about fairness. It is about ensuring that students—regardless of background—have the opportunity to thrive in schools that reflect the strength and promise of the communities they serve.
Let me be clear: We will not retreat from that commitment.
We will continue to follow the law with integrity; but we will also continue to lead with our values. We will remain legally compliant—and morally courageous. This is not only about education; it is about the kind of future we want to build for our children.
I thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your shared belief that every child matters, every voice counts, and every student deserves the opportunity to shine.
With gratitude and unwavering commitment,
Dr. Anthony D. Jackson
Superintendent
Chatham County Schools
See the original letter here.