This article was originally written by Quintessa Williams for Word In Black
In a significant turnaround, Georgia Superintendent Richard Woods announced last week that the state would now provide funding for districts to offer a new Advanced Placement course in African American Studies. This decision came after initially eliminating the course and requiring districts to use local funds for its implementation.
Following public outcry, the Georgia Department of Education clarified that districts have the freedom to teach the course with state funding, as long as they use a lower-level introductory code associated with an existing state-approved African American studies course. Although the course remains optional and ineligible for college credit, students can still take the associated AP exam.
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The decision received mixed reactions, with many criticizing Woods for his initial stance. State Senator Nikki Merritt (D) from Lawrenceville expressed disappointment at the removal of the course, stating that it deprived students of crucial knowledge about their history.
Gwinnett County Refuses Course
Gwinnett County, Georgia’s largest school district, declared that they would not offer the AP African American Studies course under the new guidelines. Superintendent Watts cited concerns that students would not receive the usual credit benefits associated with state-approved AP courses.
The released a statement reading:
“If Superintendent Woods seeks to rectify this situation, he must reinstate the state code for the African American AP course. Anything less is mere window dressing and fails to restore the course to its rightful status as an AP course, equivalent to all other AP courses in the state catalog.”
A National Controversy
Efforts to exclude AP African American Studies from school curricula sparked a national controversy, with several states implementing bans on the course. While some schools like those in Arkansas embraced the course, others like South Carolina and Florida faced opposition from officials.
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What Exactly Does AP African American Studies Teach?
The AP African American Studies course, developed with input from college professors and high school educators nationwide, delves into Black contributions and experiences across various disciplines. While the course does not offer college credit, excelling in it can enhance students’ preparation for higher education.
Kaya Henderson, founder of Reconstruction and former chancellor of DC Public Schools, emphasized the importance of engaging material like the AP course in shaping students’ perspectives and critical thinking skills.
Where Do We Go From Here?
The controversy surrounding Georgia’s decision reflects ongoing tensions in education regarding race and history. While the state’s reversal is a step in the right direction, it remains crucial to ensure equal opportunities for all students to learn about diverse cultural perspectives.
Supporters of the AP African American Studies course continue to advocate for its recognition and equal treatment in the educational system, emphasizing its value in providing students with a comprehensive understanding of Black history and contributions.