The Trump administration sent a memo to schools across the country mandating they end diversity programs or risk losing federal funding.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Trump administration is giving America’s schools and universities two weeks to eliminate diversity initiatives or risk losing federal money, raising the stakes in the president’s fight against “wokeness” and sowing confusion as schools scramble to comply.
In a Feb. 14 memo, the federal Department of Education gave an ultimatum to stop using “racial preferences” as a factor in admissions, financial aid, hiring or other areas. Schools are being given 14 days to end any practice that treats students or workers differently because of their race.
Educators at colleges nationwide were rushing to evaluate their risk and decide whether to stand up for practices they believe are legal. The sweeping demand threatens to upend all aspects of campus operations, from questions on college applications to classroom lessons and campus clubs.
National civil rights groups and university groups responded with sharp backlash, and many said the letter’s vague language was meant to have a chilling effect and pressure schools to eliminate anything broaching racial topics, even if it may be defensible in court.
WBIR reached out to schools in East Tennessee to see how they planned to respond to the directive.
University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee said it is aware of recent guidance from the U.S. Department of Education and is reviewing its implications.
“At this time, we are assessing any potential impacts to the University,” UT’s Assistant Vice President of Communications said.
Maryville City Schools said it reviewed the recent memo and can confirm its district is already in compliance with federal regulations.
“Maryville City Schools remains committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students,” said Maria Greene, the school district’s communications and special programs coordinator.
Tennessee Department of Education
The state’s department of education said the letter did not require any change to the law. Its full statement is available below.
“As the letter explains, there is no change to current law. The letter simply clarifies the federal government’s position with respect to current law. The Department will be reviewing laws, rules, and policies to determine what action, if any, is appropriate in light of the letter. We will provide guidance to our LEAs if needed.”
Knox County Schools said that it did receive the “dear colleague letter,” and was awaiting the legal guidance it referenced. It also said the school district follows federal and state law.
Maryville College said it received the memo on Feb. 14. Its full statement is below.
“Maryville College has received the U.S. Department of Education’s correspondence of February 14, 2025, regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. We are in the process of reviewing and working to comply with this correspondence.”