Kansas schools in compliance with federal regulations as funds remain on the line

TOPEKA, Kan. (KCTV) - Kansas has assured the U.S. Department of Education that its State Department of Education remains in compliance with federal regulations, with funding on the line.

The Kansas State Department of Education announced on Thursday, April 24, that a letter was issued to the U.S. Department of Education in response to an April 3 request about compliance with diversity, equity and inclusion regulations.

KSDE said it assured the Department of Education that the agency and all Kansas Local Education Agencies are in compliance with federal antidiscrimination statutes and regulations.

In its role as the State Education Agency, leaders said KSDE submitted documentation that indicated a promise that, as the applicant for federal funds, it will comply with all federal statutes related to nondiscrimination, including but not limited to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

“As public stewards of education in Kansas, we take seriously our responsibility to follow the law and maintain the trust of our communities,” said Dr. Randy Watson, Kansas Education Commissioner. “Our agency remains committed to ensuring that federal laws are respected and that all Kansas schools operate within the legal framework.”

Additionally, the KSDE indicated that it requires LEAs to sign and submit assurances that they will comply with federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination.

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