Florida lifts ban on AP psychology courses.
Florida Reverses Ban on AP Psychology Course, Allowing Inclusion of Gender and Sexual Orientation Curriculum
The state of Florida has made a significant change in its education policy by lifting the prohibition on teaching the Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology course. Previously, the Sunshine State had barred the inclusion of curriculum related to sexual orientation and gender identity, citing it as “illegal under state law.” This restriction was a result of Governor Ron DeSantis’s legislation, known as the “Don’t Say Gay” law, which initially banned classroom instruction on these topics for kindergarten through third grade but was later extended to high school.
However, there has been a positive development in this matter. Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. recently sent an email to school superintendents, giving them the green light to teach AP Psychology in its entirety. This means that Florida teachers can now cover content on gender and sexual orientation without fear of punishment in the upcoming school year.
“Today’s statement from the Florida Department of Education represents revised guidance on AP Psychology,” stated the College Board, the organization responsible for AP courses. “We hope now that Florida teachers will be able to teach the full course, including content on gender and sexual orientation, without fear of punishment in the upcoming school year.”
While this is a step in the right direction, district superintendents are seeking additional clarity from the Department of Education. Unfortunately, the department has not responded to requests for comment from the Washington Examiner.
Florida schools are scheduled to begin classes on August 10, and this change in policy will have a significant impact on the curriculum. The Washington Examiner has reached out to Governor DeSantis’s office for comment on this matter.
Key Points:
- Florida has reversed its prohibition on teaching the AP Psychology course.
- The previous ban was due to the “Don’t Say Gay” law, which restricted instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. has given the go-ahead for teaching AP Psychology in its entirety.
- The College Board hopes that Florida teachers can now cover content on gender and sexual orientation without fear of punishment.
- Additional clarity is being sought from the Department of Education.
- Florida schools are set to begin classes on August 10.
For more information, you can read the full article from the Washington Examiner here.
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