Parents' rights advocates are expressing strong approval of President Trump's recent actions concerning the education system, citing his focus on issues like school funding, antisemitism, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices. In his initial weeks in office, President Trump has issued executive orders addressing these areas and initiated a federal review of DEI implementation in federally funded institutions.

The administration has also launched an investigation into a Colorado school district accused of potential discrimination against female students due to the reported conversion of a girls' restroom into an all-gender facility, while the boys' restroom remained designated for males only. Nicole Neily, president of Parents Defending Education, believes this investigation signals a broader effort to address similar situations nationwide.

Neily emphasized the administration's recognition of biological sex differences and its commitment to addressing concerns raised by parents. The Department of Education's letter to Denver Public Schools regarding the restroom issue at East High School reinforces this commitment and offers reassurance to families and students facing similar situations.

Neily highlighted the feeling among parents of being disregarded by educational authorities at various levels. She believes the changes under the Trump administration are necessary and overdue. The federal review of DEI practices aims to re-center merit-based opportunities within federally funded educational institutions.

Regarding the potential for states to have more control over their education systems, Neily expressed support for local autonomy, suggesting that states are better equipped to understand and address the specific needs and values of their communities. She also advocated for the Department of Education to prioritize its core mission of education and rebuilding trust, rather than allocating substantial resources to DEI-focused grants.