BELLEVUE, NE – Dr. Linda Vermooten, candidate for the Nebraska State Board of Education, has raised concerns over recent messaging from her opponent, Maggie Douglas, that promotes "equity" in education. Dr. Vermooten warns that the use of "equity" as a social justice buzzword signals a shift away from providing equal opportunities for all students to a focus on ensuring equal outcomes, which could lead to divisive and politically charged policies being introduced into Nebraska's education system.
In a recent text message sent to voters, Maggie Douglas highlighted her commitment to "equity and access for ALL students." However, Dr. Vermooten points out that the concept of "equity" often aligns with social justice frameworks that categorize individuals into groups of oppressors and oppressed, advantaged and disadvantaged. This ideology frequently results in policies that prioritize preferential treatment for certain groups over others, rather than ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Dr. Vermooten stated, "While equality in education is about giving every student the same opportunities to succeed, 'equity' as it is being promoted by my opponent often aims to achieve equal outcomes. This approach undermines merit-based success and can lead to the implementation of divisive policies such as DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and CRT (Critical Race Theory) in our schools. Nebraskans deserve a State Board of Education that will focus on providing all students with the tools they need to excel, without pushing a politically motivated agenda."
Dr. Vermooten, a Licensed Doctor of Psychology with a strong commitment to educational excellence and local control, stands firmly against the introduction of social justice ideologies into the education system. She believes that the focus should be on improving literacy rates, supporting teachers, and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed based on their individual talents and efforts.
Voters in District 2 are encouraged to consider the implications of the policies being proposed and to support Dr. Vermooten's vision for an education system that prioritizes academic excellence, parental rights, and equal opportunities for all students.
For more information about Dr. Linda Vermooten's campaign, please visit LindaForNebraska.com.