The Supreme Court agreed on Monday to review a Maryland school district’s admissions policy for selective middle school programs. The case renews the court’s examination of race in education. It follows the justices’ 2023 decision ending affirmative action in college admissions.
The appeal centers on changes made to admission rules for competitive magnet programs in Montgomery County. District officials revised the policy after data showed stark racial disparities in enrollment. The new system considers socioeconomic factors alongside other criteria.
A group of Asian American families challenged the revised policy in federal court. They argue the changes intentionally reduced Asian American enrollment at the most selective schools. Lower courts have so far upheld the district’s approach.
The district maintains its policy is race-neutral and designed to broaden access. Officials say the changes aim to reflect the diversity of the school system. Enrollment data shows gains for Black and Latino students under the new rules.
The case arrives as schools nationwide revisit admissions practices in the wake of the college ruling. K-12 districts have faced growing legal challenges over diversity efforts. Courts have issued mixed rulings on similar policies.
The justices will weigh whether the district’s use of socioeconomic and geographic factors crosses a legal line. The court’s conservative majority has shown skepticism toward race-conscious policies. A decision is expected by late June.
The outcome could shape how school systems pursue diversity without explicit racial preferences. Legal experts say the ruling may set standards for the dozens of districts facing similar suits. Both sides have signaled the case could reach the heart of the affirmative action debate.
