DeVos backs off claim that black colleges are ‘pioneers’ of school choice

Historically Black colleges and universities were born out of “necessity” rather than the pursuit of school choice, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos said Tuesday.

In a series of tweets, DeVos acknowledged that the schools were initially established because African-American students were often not accepted to predominantly white colleges and universities.

#HBCUs are such an important piece of the fabric of American history—one that encompasses some of our nation’s greatest citizens.

— Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

Providing an alternative option to students denied the right to attend a quality school is the legacy of #HBCUs.

— Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

But your history was born not out of mere choice, but out of necessity, in the face of racism, and in the aftermath of the Civil War.

— Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

#HBCUs remain at the forefront of opening doors that had previously been closed to so many.

— Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

We need more good schools. We need more good teachers. And no child should be denied the opportunity to enter a great school. Not one.

— Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

The Education secretary took heat earlier Tuesday for calling HBCUs “real pioneers when it comes to school choice,” an education policy that DeVos has fervently advocated for.

“They are living proof that when more options are provided to students, they are afforded greater access and great quality,” DeVos said in a statement. “Their success has shown that more options help students flourish.”

But that comment immediately spurred criticism.

Leaders from the country’s HBCUs are currently in Washington meeting with President Trump and administration officials and congressional Republicans. Trump signed an executive order aimed at boosting HBCUs Tuesday afternoon.