The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal challenging the admissions policy of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, a top public school in Virginia, which critics claimed discriminated against Asian American students.
The plaintiffs argued the policy, revised in 2020 to boost diversity, violated the 14th Amendment. Changes included removing standardized tests and reserving spots for top students across all middle schools. Asian American enrollment dropped from 73% to 62% over three years, while diversity increased.
The 4th Circuit upheld the policy, rejecting claims of intentional racial discrimination. Conservative Justices Alito and Thomas dissented, calling the decision dangerous.
Fairfax County officials defended the policy as fair and inclusive. The Supreme Court’s refusal comes after it ended race-conscious college admissions in 2023.
