AP African American Studies Request
I’m a proud South Carolinian. I was born and raised in the state. My family has roots there that presumably go back to the first African ancestor who was brought to this world in chains. Unfortunately, it seems, some would like to tell the story that my ancestors were “workers” or “volunteers” or even “immigrants” as some textbooks do. No, my ancestors were forced to come here and whatever success I have achieved has been because of their strength and resilience against policies and people propped up by the US and SC government.
To that point, AP African American studies has now been “removed from SC schools” in a decision by Ellen Weaver, the current State superintendent. The reasoning a“state budget provision that restricts instruction on race as well as “pending permanent legislation.”
This is the fall out from those anti-CRT bills two years ago.
Does that mean kids in SC can’t take the course? No. Schools can apply directly to the College Board to approve instruction of the course at the school level and offer it as an Honors course.
Here is some verbiage to send to your principle or local district superintendent in support of AP African American studies. Now, you may have a conservative superintendent so I would urge you to talk with your local PTA BEFORE you launch an individual campaign. There is strength in numbers and you don’t want to tip off potential opposition to the request until you’re sure you have support.
Dear Superintendent,
As a (insert parent/business owner/community member/student) of the (insert county) community I am committed to making sure every student gets an education that prepares them for college and career, but also participation as a full citizen. I believe offering AP African American studies would go very far in that aim and I would like to see it offered in (insert county) schools.
From the College Board:
AP African American Studies is an interdisciplinary course that examines the diversity of African American experiences through direct encounters with rich and varied sources. Students explore key topics that extend from early African kingdoms to the ongoing challenges and achievements of the contemporary moment.
The course framework includes:
Unit 1: Origins of the African Diaspora (~900 BCE–16th century)
Unit 2: Freedom, Enslavement, and Resistance (16th century–1865)
Unit 3: The Practice of Freedom (1865–1940s)
Unit 4: Movements and Debates (1940s–2000s)
Much like AP European History and AP World History, this course offers a deeper understanding of the people and movements that have shaped our world. Unlike European and World History, this course focuses on the unique, vast and varied contributions of Americans of African descent.
If you would like to speak further about next years’ Honors course offerings or how I can better support the school in these efforts, please let me know.
Sincerely,
