December 27th 2023.
On December 21st, the Francis Howell School Board made a controversial decision to remove Black history and Black Literature courses from their curriculum, drawing the ire of many in the predominately white suburban area. According to the Associated Press, the 5-2 vote came just months after the board revoked an anti-discrimination policy.
The courses, which were developed during the 2020-2021 school year and reviewed by teachers, administrators, and more, were intended to educate students on contemporary and multi-genre literary works of Black authors, and the dignity and identity of Black voices. It also gave students the opportunity to “gain a Black historical consciousness” and become equipped as engaged citizens working toward an equitable democracy.
At the meeting, the board was met with protests from students and parents who chanted “Let them learn!” Harry Harris, a Black father and former school board candidate, scolded the board for their actions, telling them that they "don't care about Black and brown families in our district.”
The removal of the courses was pushed by five new controlling board members who felt the courses pushed critical race theory. Board president Adam Bertrand claims the decision had to be made before fall registration opens in January 2024. However, board member Janet Stiglich asked why the issue wasn’t presented before a committee first. Randy Cook and Jane Puszkar quickly replied, stating that their minds were already made up.
The Francis Howell School Board’s decision to remove Black history and literature courses is part of a larger trend seen in school boards across the nation. In August 2023, the Little Rock School District in Arkansas decided to continue offering Advanced Placement African American Studies courses for credit, despite a new ruling from state education officials. Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is facing backlash over his state’s new mandates on how teachers are required to teach Black history.
It’s clear that Black history and literature courses are under attack in many parts of the country. With the Francis Howell School Board’s decision to remove these courses, it appears that the importance of learning and educating our future generations about the Black experience is being overlooked.
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