CASEL applauds the recent final ruling from the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, holding the Administration’s actions as unlawful and unconstitutional. The ruling strikes down the U.S. Department of Education’s February 14 “Dear Colleague Letter” and accompanying Certification Requirement to states and districts. The court found that the Administration’s actions violated federal law, were unconstitutionally vague, and risked infringing on educators’ First Amendment rights. As the ruling states, the government caused “millions of educators to reasonably fear that their lawful, and even beneficial, speech might cause them or their schools to be punished.”
This ruling validates concerns CASEL voiced in March, echoed by members of Congress and the Leading with SEL Coalition.
This decision makes clear what we have long known to be true: SEL is not discriminatory or unlawful under federal law.
Back to topWith this final ruling, the court recognizes that the Department’s actions created confusion and a chilling effect on lawful, evidence-based practices such as social and emotional learning that support student success and foster safe, inclusive schools.
As always, CASEL will continue our work to stand in partnership and support of educators, education leaders, students, and families across the country who are working every day to ensure students have the essential social and emotional skills they need to succeed in school and life.
Find more information about social and emotional learning on casel.org.