A large number of high schools across America are adding AP African American studies as a brand-new course, allowing students to explore African American history, culture, and diversity. The course was recently introduced to Diamond Bar High School this new school year.
The curriculum dives deeply into the rich history of African American experiences, covering topics ranging from early African kingdoms to modern challenges and achievements. Becoming the school’s fifth history course, it offers another perspective of history through a different lens. Dr. Camille Buckley, who is teaching the class, shares the belief that this class is a one-of-a-kind experience.
“With just 9 students in the class this year, it allows for more creativity and flexibility, giving students a ‘pilot’ experience that they wouldn’t get in other classes,” Buckley said.
Broken up into 4 different units, AP African American Studies starts in Unit One, focusing on African Diaspora, which showcases that African American history did not start with slavery but with rich cultures and narratives. Unit two covers freedom, enslavement, and resistance, covering the different ways enslaved people fought back or resisted. Unit Three, titled “The Practice of Freedom,” discusses what modern scholars have done. For example, the black press and the nature of American racism. The course ends with the fourth unit, which covers movements, debates, and influential figures, highlighting how they have shaped history.
“We have been able to have really good discussions. The students asked deep questions and were very engaged,” Buckley said. “Even though I want them to get fives, I want them to see the truth, and I want them to engage with it differently.”
College Board created this course to diversify and enrich students’ experiences in learning history. The class itself has been in the works for about a decade, shaped by teachers and scholars nationwide. It was tested in 2021 by select schools before expanding across the country, reflecting the importance of African American contributions to shaping America.
By joining this national movement, Diamond Bar High School demonstrates its commitment to giving students a more comprehensive understanding of history. Offering AP African American Studies gives students the opportunity to explore diverse cultural narratives and gain a deeper understanding of how African American experiences have shaped the nation.
As more schools across the country adopt AP African American Studies, the course represents an ongoing effort to broaden perspectives. It provides students with a new pathway to engage with the diverse histories and cultures of our world today.