Story perspectives

Merced Schools Under Fire for $600K Race-Based Curriculum

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Merced City School District (California) is scrutinized for spending over $600,000 on a rap-based curriculum from School Yard Rap.
The program includes an African American Affinity Group, raising concerns about compliance with federal law prohibiting race-exclusive programming.
Reading proficiency stands at 33 percent and math at 20 percent, prompting critics to say funds should prioritize academics.
The Justice Department is investigating similar race-based initiatives in other districts.

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Story summary

Merced City School District (California) is scrutinized for spending over $600,000 on a rap-based curriculum from School Yard Rap.
The program includes an African American Affinity Group, raising concerns about compliance with federal law prohibiting race-exclusive programming.
Reading proficiency stands at 33 percent and math at 20 percent, prompting critics to say funds should prioritize academics.
The Justice Department is investigating similar race-based initiatives in other districts.