Takeaways: Requiring job candidates to talk about diversity, equity and inclusion during the hiring process could subject public universities in Kansas to $10,000 fines. A new law bans colleges from requiring statements of support or opposition to political ideologies or movements during admission, hiring or promotion processes. In practice, that means colleges can’t require staff […]
inclusion
Posted inKansas State Government
Will Gov. Laura Kelly sign or veto tax cuts? Here’s what else passed
Takeaways: Kansas lawmakers approved new tax cuts, bans on gender-affirming cares and some new crimes this year. The Republican-controlled Legislature can expect Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly to veto some of the most controversial bills, setting up override votes. Legislators finished the regular session and will take a few weeks off before returning for veto session. […]
Posted inLocal Government
Wichita’s boards and commissions underrepresent women and people of color. Here’s how the city plans to change that.
When Shala Perez began serving on city, county, state and national advisory boards in 2009, she was often the only woman and person of color in the room. Having worked in law enforcement — including the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, the Bel Aire Police Department and the Mulvane Police Department — Perez was accustomed to this. But […]
Posted inEducation
Wichita Board of Education candidates weigh in on COVID, engagement and diversity
How should Wichita schools keep students safe during the pandemic? How can parents be more engaged? How can the school system find post-pandemic success? With nine people running for four seats on the Wichita Board of Education, The Wichita Beacon surveyed the candidates on several issues ahead of the Nov. 2 election. In the race […]
Posted inEducation
Wichita State betting on Hispanics becoming 25% of all students by 2030
Valeria Paunetto was torn between two identities when her family came to Wichita from Puerto Rico six years ago. “I was at a crossroads where I had to ask myself if I wanted to assimilate and play the game — to not be myself and be who others wanted me to be. Would I be […]