GIA Education Report: DEI Changes, College Program Delays, and Riverside County Educators of the Year

Welcome to the GIA Education Report. With the latest in Southern California education news, I’m Alyssa Silva. 

The U.S. Department of Education has taken immediate action to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) measures following President Trump’s recent executive order. DEI staff have been placed on administrative leave, millions in DEI-related contracts have been canceled, and more than 200 webpages offering DEI resources for schools and colleges are being removed. Additionally, two internal DEI-focused employee groups have been disbanded. These changes come as the department announces several new political appointees, many with ties to the Trump-aligned America First Policy Institute. 

In other news, California community colleges are facing delays in implementing seven bachelor’s degree programs, including cybersecurity at Moorpark College and digital infrastructure at Santiago Canyon College, due to claims of duplication by California State University (CSU). Among the disputed degrees is a cybersecurity program at Moorpark, which faces objections from seven CSU campuses, including CSU San Bernardino (CSUSB). CSUSB has cited concerns about overlapping coursework with its own programs, while Valley College awaits approval for a water resource management degree that has moved forward. 

While 32 new programs have launched since a 2021 law expanded degree offerings, unresolved disputes over curriculum overlap have left some students waiting for opportunities to advance their careers. The proposals are now under review by WestEd, a third-party arbitrator, with decisions expected soon.  

The Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF) has named Jesse Melgar as its new Board Chair, making him the first openly LGBTQ+, and first Coachella Valley resident to hold the position. Melgar has led efforts like the CIELO Fund, raising over $2 million for Latino organizations and scholarships, and brings experience in state government and academia. IECF also welcomes three new Board members: Felicia Alexander, Elizabeth Romero, and Lou Monville, who will help advance the foundation’s mission of inclusive philanthropy and community impact in the region. 

The Redlands High School Team Blue has won the San Bernardino County Mock Trial competition, advancing to the state finals on March 14-16, 2025. Hosted by the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and the District Attorney’s Office, the competition featured 23 teams and over 425 students. Participants analyzed a hypothetical criminal case, presenting their arguments before real judges in roles such as attorneys, witnesses, and bailiffs. Redlands East Valley High School placed second. This annual event highlights students’ civic understanding and teamwork while preparing them for future legal and societal engagement.  

To close this report, The Riverside County Office of Education has announced the final 2025 Educators of the Year, celebrating the exceptional contributions of three professionals across the county. Marcus Ridley of Riverside Unified, Jason Marquez of Alvord Unified, and Maria Lozano of Moreno Valley Unified were surprised with the news during district events attended by colleagues and family. Their work spans impactful recruitment initiatives, transformative school leadership, and life-changing career development programs for students. 

These educators, along with honorees announced earlier, will be recognized at the 2025 Celebrating Educators Luncheon on May 13 at the Riverside Convention Center. 

And that’s this week’s GIA Education Report, I’m Alyssa Silva.