No College Psychology Credit for Florida High Schoolers as Gender Teaching Ban Takes Effect
The College Board, a nonprofit organization that administers the SAT and AP exams, is pushing back against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ conservative education standards. The College Board recently advised Florida school districts to not offer the AP Psychology course unless it can be taught in full, in response to the state’s limits on teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity. This announcement has caused outrage among students and parents who were planning to take the course. The College Board’s decision comes after it watered down the curriculum for the AP African American studies course in response to pressure from DeSantis and conservative ideals, sparking a nationwide backlash.
Florida’s Department of Education disputes the College Board’s claim that the course has been banned, but the College Board says its hands are tied by the state administration. The expanded Florida law prohibits lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity, unless required by existing state standards or as part of reproductive health instruction. The College Board has refused to modify the psychology course to comply with the legislation, standing firm against pressure from Florida officials who requested a review of college-level courses for potential violations.
Experts and educators are concerned that legislation restricting curriculum content is having a chilling effect on teachers across the country. The American Psychological Association says that Florida’s policy will result in students receiving an incomplete education. The College Board’s decision is seen as a stand against censorship and an effort to defend academic freedom.
