Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has issued a warning to three school districts in the state, ordering them to stop discriminatory practices against students and staff. Bailey emphasized the importance of protecting the constitutional rights of all Missourians, stating, “As long as I’m Attorney General, discrimination will be dead on arrival in this state.”

In a letter addressed to Lindbergh School District, Attorney General Bailey highlighted reports of race-based discrimination in the district's gifted program criteria. He expressed concern that the district's policy may be discriminating on the basis of race, which would be a violation of state and federal law.

Similarly, in a letter to Parkway School District, Bailey addressed reports of religious discrimination, specifically mentioning the prevention of students from forming religious-based clubs and participating in related activities on campus. He made it clear that religious discrimination is prohibited by both state and federal laws.

Regarding Webster Groves School District, Attorney General Bailey pointed out reports of race-based criteria for employees and applicants, which would also constitute illegal discrimination. He reminded the district that under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, racial discrimination in employment practices is strictly prohibited.

Bailey ordered all three districts to cease their allegedly discriminatory practices immediately, emphasizing that he will use his full authority under the law to ensure that students and staff in Missouri are protected from such treatment.

The letters addressed to Lindbergh School District, Parkway School District, and Webster Groves School District can be viewed for further details on the specific issues raised by the Attorney General.