Moses Lake School Board rejects woke race policy

The Moses Lake School Board is considering a proposal to revise its foundational policy, removing language tied to racial, ethnic, and religious diversity in favor of research-based governance standards.

The change comes ahead of a new board member joining in December, following the November 4 election.

Policy 1005, which outlines the board’s responsibilities, currently begins with a broad pledge to act on behalf of the community. The proposed revision would replace that language with a clearer, bullet-pointed framework aligned with standards from the Washington State School Directors’ Association.

The new version emphasizes transparency, fairness, and accountability while eliminating references to governing “within the context of racial, ethnic and religious diversity.”

Prioritizing competence over ideology in governance

Superintendent Carol Lewis said the update is part of a broader effort to ensure the board’s policies reflect its core mission: responsible governance, student achievement, and staff success.

“It’s important that we are reviewing all these policies about the roles and functions of the school board during this critical time,” Lewis told The Center Square.

The board’s shift comes amid growing concern over state mandates that many rural districts view as ideological overreach.

On October 2, the board passed a resolution pushing back against the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), criticizing its approach to sexual health education and gender policies.

Board aligns with federal directives, pushes back on state mandates

The resolution calls for a return to biology-based instruction and warns against political content in classrooms.

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This local action aligns with federal directives under President Donald Trump, who has called for the removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies from federally funded institutions.

Many districts now face the challenge of complying with federal expectations while navigating pressure from state agencies.

“The Board of Directors recognizes its duty to ensure that all instructional materials reflect the educational priorities, values, and expectations of the local community,” the resolution states.

The proposed policy changes will be reviewed again at the board’s November 6 meeting.

Board member Amy Breitenstein suggested the revised policy be shared with incoming members to help them understand their responsibilities from day one.

Lewis confirmed the district will provide updated materials to the new board member once election results are certified on November 25.

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