Portland Schools Face Federal Probe Over New Black Student Center

The U. S. Department of Education has launched an inquiry after a complaint claimed that Portland Public Schools engaged in “racial preferencing” by creating the Center for Black Student Excellence. A conservative nonprofit, Defending Education, argued that spending up to $25 million on the center violates Title VI and equal protection rights. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon posted that “discrimination disguised as ‘equity’ is discrimination, ” and the group welcomed the investigation, saying it will benefit only one race. Portland officials say the center will serve all students and welcome Black‑led nonprofits to provide tutoring, camps, and other programs.The district’s communications director stated the center is part of a larger mission to create an inclusive environment for every student. The federal agency previously opened a civil rights case after the district allowed a transgender athlete to join a track team; no ruling has been issued yet. The Center for Black Student Excellence is slated to open in North Portland, a former hub of the city’s Black community, and will cost roughly $60 million in capital expenses. The investigation follows the department’s recent decision to cut grants aimed at supporting students of color, signaling a shift away from diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.