As Bishop Gorman High School students selected their courses for the upcoming school year, some noticed that a new course was added to the list: AP African American Studies. This course is set to make its debut in the ‘25-‘26 school year promising to educate students interested on the diversity of African American experiences
This class requires prerequisites in English and History. For students taking Honors English 2 and Honors English 3 must have a minimum of an A in the class. And for students taking Scholars English 2 and AP English Language & Comp must have received a full credit in the class. Students must have also received full credit in AP US History or AP World History.
AP African American studies is a course for students to acquire skills for researching and also learn the beauty of African American culture. Mrs. Houston, an English teacher on campus, said, “what’s most exciting about it is that it’s one of the first diversity classes we’ve had on campus, and so students will be able to kind of immerse themselves in another culture.”
Many teachers around campus have been promoting this course to their students to broaden their understanding of African American history. Mrs. Grant, a theology teacher on campus, said, “the new AP African American Studies course is an exciting opportunity for students to engage in a deeper, more comprehensive exploration of black history, culture, and contributions. Students should consider enrolling because this course offers an opportunity to see history through a broader and more accurate lens, highlighting voices and stories that are often overlooked in traditional curricula.”
This course’s nature is beyond educational; oftentimes it is also eye opening. “The lessons they learn from African American history, culture, and contributions should inspire them to become better human beings rooted in empathy, justice, and respect for others. Ultimately, I hope they will carry with them a deeper understanding of the importance of loving our neighbor and loving God, as these values are foundational to creating a more compassionate and just society,” Grant expressed.
Overall, this course will be able to enrich students’ understanding of African American heritage and highlight the significance of their legacy. “I hope (students) will carry with them a deeper understanding of the importance of loving our neighbor and loving God, as these values are foundational to creating a more compassionate and just society,” Grant detailed.
