My Perspective on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies
My Perspective on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies
By George Edwards, Jr., CPA
As I seek election to the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Board of Trustees, I want to share my perspective on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. My views come not from theory, but from a lifetime of professional achievement, community leadership, and faith-driven service.
As a Black man who has built a career through hard work and perseverance, I know firsthand that success comes from high expectations, strong families, and disciplined classrooms—not from the color of a person’s skin.
For nearly 40 years, I served as a Certified Public Accountant with ExxonMobil, building a career on merit, responsibility, and dedication. Outside of my profession, I have led organizations, volunteered extensively, and created scholarships to help young people rise. These experiences confirm what I have always believed: success is determined by character and effort, with equal opportunity provided to all.
What DEI Really Means
DEI - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - is based on the idea that recruiting and supporting people of various backgrounds benefits organizations.
Why DEI Does Not Belong in Cy-Fair ISD
DEI has nothing to do with educating children. My focus for Cy-Fair ISD is on academic excellence through four priorities:
- Early Literacy – Ensuring students can read for comprehension by the end of third grade.
- Fiscal Responsibility – Providing accountability and transparency in how taxpayer dollars are spent.
- Safe Classrooms – Supporting teachers and maintaining discipline so students can focus on learning.
- Parental Empowerment – Respecting the vital role of parents in their children’s education.
The future of our district depends not on checking boxes for diversity, but on ensuring all children—regardless of background—have access to a quality education.
My Belief in High Standards for All
Achievement is not about skin color; it is about expectations, effort, and support. To assume otherwise is itself a form of prejudice. My life and career stand as proof.
Neither I nor my family has ever benefitted from Affirmative Action or DEI programs. What we have achieved came through diligence, faith, and God’s blessings.
When elected, I will fight to maintain an educational environment in Cy-Fair ISD that believes in the unlimited potential of every child and holds all students to the highest standards.