NC Senate Bill 227 Seeks to End DEI Programs in Public Schools, Raises Questions for Wake County Schools
Bill could directly impact the Wake County Public School System's ongoing efforts, which have actively incorporated equity-focused programs in recent years.
Holly Springs, NC, Mar. 4, 2025 — A bill introduced in the North Carolina General Assembly on March 3rd has drawn attention for its potential impact on public education. Senate Bill 227, titled "Eliminating 'DEI' in Public Education," seeks to prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in North Carolina public schools. Introduced by Senators Phil Berger, Michael Lee, and Brad Overcash, the bill is currently under legislative review and is expected to generate significant debate.
Bill Overview
The bill proposes restricting public schools from implementing or promoting certain DEI-related concepts. Supporters argue this would ensure an academic environment based on equality and critical thinking. At the same time, opponents express concerns that it could limit discussions about historical and social issues in schools.
If passed, the bill would:
Prohibit instruction on "divisive concepts," such as teaching that one race or sex is inherently superior, that meritocracy is racist or sexist, or that individuals bear responsibility for historical injustices due to their race or sex.
Restrict professional development that includes these concepts. Educators would not be required to undergo DEI-related training.
Eliminate DEI-related offices and positions in public schools, prohibiting using state funds to support these roles.
Require school districts to certify compliance by September 1st each year, with reports submitted to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and the state legislature.
Potential Impacts on WCPSS Initiatives
The bill could directly impact the Wake County Public School System's (WCPSS) ongoing efforts, which have actively incorporated equity-focused programs in recent years.
1. Office of Equity Affairs
One of the most immediate effects of S.B. 227 would be dismantling WCPSS's Office of Equity Affairs (OEA), which was established to address systemic disparities and promote inclusion. The OEA has been involved in teacher professional development, curriculum support, and outreach efforts to ensure equal educational opportunities for all students. Under the proposed bill, this office could no longer operate within WCPSS.
2. Professional Development & Training
WCPSS requires professional development focused on implicit bias, cultural competency, and equitable classroom practices. S.B. 227 would prohibit these trainings if they include "divisive concepts" as defined by the bill, meaning that some of the district’s ongoing initiatives could be curtailed or eliminated.
3. Equity Policy & Curriculum
The district’s Equity Policy 1150, which aims to create fair opportunities for all students, could be scrutinized if it includes content that contradicts the bill’s restrictions. WCPSS has also introduced curriculum elements that encourage discussions about race, gender, and historical inequities—topics that could be subject to new limitations if S.B. 227 becomes law.
Reactions from the Community
The bill has sparked strong reactions from supporters and opponents within the WCPSS community.
Supporters of S.B. 227 argue that it will eliminate bias in education and ensure that public schools focus on academic excellence rather than political or ideological issues.
Critics of the bill, including some WCPSS educators and community members, worry that it will erase important discussions about race and history and make it harder for teachers to address students' real-world challenges.
The Wake County Board of Education has yet to release an official statement on S.B. 227 but is expected to address the issue in upcoming meetings.
Next Steps in the Legislative Process
S.B. 227 is currently awaiting committee assignment in the Senate. The bill must pass through committee review before proceeding to a Senate floor vote, after which it would move to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Both chambers will send it to Governor Josh Stein for final action if approved.
Local Representation & Contact Information
Residents of Holly Springs, NC, are represented in the North Carolina General Assembly by:
North Carolina House of Representatives:
Representative Erin Paré (District 37)
Office Address: 300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 637, Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: (919) 733-2962
Email: Erin.Pare@ncleg.gov
North Carolina Senate:
Senator Sydney Batch (District 17)
Office Address: 16 West Jones Street, Room 1026, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733-5653
Email: Sydney.Batch@ncleg.gov
Community members can contact their representatives to express their opinions or ask questions about the bill. The North Carolina General Assembly’s "Find Your Legislators" tool can also help identify elected officials by district: www.ncleg.gov/FindYourLegislators.