College Board Launches AP African-American Studies Program For Over 50 High Schools

August 24, 2022

For decades, in the American public school curriculum, Black history has been either an optional elective or not taught at all. A new project by The College Board can finally change that narrative.

Making & Changing History

For Black students,  Black History Month is the only time they may learn anything about their ancestors’ feats or accomplishments. 

Started as Black History Week by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a new project that could have pleased him will start.

The College Board, an organization behind Advanced Placement in schools, is launching a program for high school students in the country that will teach African-American history on an advanced level.

The Start Of A New Era

In articles by Time and ESSENCE magazine, the program will launch this school year in 60 high schools across the country. 

This gives Black students a chance to learn as much as possible about Black American history that is more authentic without it being watered down. 

Starting next year, students can earn college credit from Virginia Tech and Tuskegee University. 

This course by The College Board will be the 40th Advanced placement course and the first new AP course since 2014.

Controversy In the Curriculum?

This course is introduced when Black history is involved in the nationwide debate. 

Teachers are being accused of teaching “Critical Race Theory’ which explains why racism can affect legal systems and institutions.

State Governors such as Ron DeSantis of Florida signed the Stop WOKE Act, which limits teachings on race, sexuality, and oppression. 

The new AP course will teach race intersectionality, roots of mass incarceration, analysis of speeches by Black leaders such as Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, Jr, and more.

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