The Primary School, Priscilla Chan's tuition-free institution, set to close amid shifting social values at Meta

The announcement of the closure of The Primary School stands as a poignant moment reflecting the changing dynamics within the educational and philanthropic landscapes, particularly as they relate to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. Co-founded in 2016 by Priscilla Chan and the late Meredith Liu, the tuition-free private institution was established on the principles of DEI, aiming to cater to the needs of low-income families in East Palo Alto and the Belle Haven neighborhood. The school revealed that it will cease operations at the end of the 2025-2026 school year, citing a 'very difficult decision' that emerged after much deliberation. However, the closure is accompanied by a backdrop of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's recent withdrawal from staunch support of DEI initiatives across both his corporate and philanthropic entities. Notably, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) announced its commitment to withdraw from DEI projects and focus on supporting families transitioning from The Primary School to other educational paths. The emotional impact on parents has been significant, with many expressing feelings of betrayal and loss, particularly in light of prior promises made by Zuckerberg and Chan when they launched the school as a tool for community support and engagement. Their promise of building a system that intertwines education with healthcare seemed at odds with the recent strategic detour taken by both Meta and CZI toward less inclusive frameworks. While the CZI has pledged $50 million to aid transitioning families and support community initiatives, this funding is perceived by many as insufficient compensation for the closure of a beloved institution that served crucial roles for so many families. Statements from parents reflect sentiments of deep disappointment, framing the closure as not just an educational loss but a broader attack on the values that originally underpinned the school. Critics argue that the decision aligns with a larger national trend of backlash against DEI programs, particularly in light of evolving political landscapes under the Trump administration and beyond. This adds layers to community anxieties, as previously impactful entities pivot away from commitments to support marginalized groups. In summary, the closure of The Primary School not only strikes at the heart of the local community but also raises critical questions about the continuity of support for DEI values at such a publicly visible level. As the community seeks to adapt to this change, the challenge remains to uphold the principles that the school once stood for, even as funding and operations shift away from them.