Banned History Class Offered at San Leandro High

Although we’re living in the 21st century, controversy surrounding education about America’s past is still present. About a year ago, Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida, banned the AP African American studies class for the state of Florida. Shortly after, Arkansas followed and since 2021, approximately 18 states have passed laws restricting the teaching about slavery in classrooms.
In our community, San Leandro High is one of the only schools in the area that offers this class to students. Students are fortunate to have this class offered to them, but unfortunately, not many are aware of it.
AP African American Studies is an interdisciplinary course that examines the diversity of African American experiences through engaging with a wide range of sources. It provides a deeper understanding on not only the topic, but origins all around the world.
At San Leandro High, this class is taught by history teacher Ms. Taylor-Wright, who was asked to lead the course last year. In the beginning, she wasn’t completely all for it, as the controversy on the course was at its all time high.
“When I was asked to teach the class, I was 95% all in but 5% skeptical and concerned due to the political aspect/discussions around it” said Taylor-Wright, “but I would say that it didn’t deter me from teaching it.”
She highlighted the importance and significance of the course, while not allowing that setback affect her decision.
“If anything, it reminded me how necessary the class is because if people are trying to keep it out of classrooms, then they know it needs to be taught.”
Taylor-Wright prepared students so well that the AP exam “felt like a breeze” said Jaylah Mifflin, “the material was very familiar and she prepared us well.”
She also mentioned that, because the significance of the course is so impactful, that those trying to avoid it -such as Florida- are aware that the course teaches crucial information that everyone should know.
Despite the fact that this course has been a topic of discussion in many school boards across the United States, this course isn’t widely known around the school. It’s deeply hidden due to its controversy and overshadowing throughout society, to the point that there is only one period with very few students enrolled. But for these very few students in the class, how or why did they join the class?
“I needed to know more about African American history. I thought I knew enough until I joined and learned a lot more than I anticipated” said Taylor Lee, student in the class, “One example being how our history didn’t stop at slavery.”
Lee expressed her curiosity on not only learning more about the course itself, but also deepening her understanding of the significant impact African Americans have had on the development of America.
“I joined the class to get more information on who I am, regarding my culture and ethnicity,” said Alani Evans, another student in the AP African American Studies class, “I wanted to learn about and understand how we went through so much more than slavery”.
Evans, an African American herself, wanted to learn more about her roots and heritage as the history of the past ties back to her identity today and where she stands. This course covers much more than just slavery, a misconception that may have discouraged students from enrolling in the course.
“I think they should join the class because it helps with your ability to compare and contrast ideas with stereotypes” said Lee, “You get a deeper dive into history and how it impacted us today”.
Lee believes that students should join this class to get the truth and confirmation on your ideas and perceptions rather than following false stereotypes.
“I definitely think that people should join this class,” said Evans, “Regardless of your background, you should still join because it’s a topic that shouldnt be brushed off to the side.”
Evans points out how this course teaches crucial knowledge, regardless of your background. Learning about the history of the land that we stand on today should not be taken for granted, especially since this course isn’t available nationwide.
And having an empowering teacher like Taylor-Wright, should be an advantage used to its highest.
“Taking this class offers students a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of African American history and culture, while also earning the added benefit of a GPA boost through the AP course.”