North Gwinnett News

Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) was granted approval by the State Board of Education to pilot the Advanced Placement (AP) African American Studies course during the 2023-2024 academic year. Students who completed this course received appropriate credit.

In January 2024, GCPS was informed by the state that a formal course request was necessary for districts wishing to offer AP African American Studies in the 2024-2025 school year. Despite this being a new requirement, GCPS submitted the application as instructed. On July 10, 2024, it was communicated that State School Superintendent Richard Woods reviewed the revised framework but chose not to recommend its adoption.

As a result of the state's decision not to recognize the AP African American Studies course, GCPS will be unable to offer it as initially planned. This decision affects around 240 students across six schools who had registered for the course.

"In GCPS, we are committed to offering a comprehensive and inclusive education for each and every student," stated Dr. Calvin J. Watts, GCPS Superintendent. "The 2023-24 AP African American Studies pilot was successful, and we are disappointed that students will neither have the opportunity to take nor receive credit for this innovative college-level course."

GCPS officials are collaborating with principals to update students, families, and staff about these changes. Dr. Watts intends to continue discussions with Superintendent Woods and the State Board of Education to find ways to incorporate this AP course into the district's curriculum. Families will be kept informed with timely updates as new developments occur.