Credit: Allison Shelley for American Education
I was hesitant when first approached to help develop a course for AP African American Studies. Not because of the content, but rather the broader societal debates and media attention surrounding the curriculum. The noise around it felt overwhelming.
However, as I began to review the materials, I realized how groundbreaking this course could be for students. It became clear that it was a worthwhile challenge.
Now, nearly six months into teaching this course online to high school students around the state, I’m further convinced of its value. My students applauded the use of music to bridge the past and present and immersed themselves in research to complete their final projects. One student said the final project “felt culturally enriching,” while another said it gave them “a profound understanding of history as a whole.” The course also challenges us as…
