Jon Burns, Speaker of the House | Official U.S. House headshot
Jon Burns, Speaker of the House | Official U.S. House headshot
Last week, Democratic members of the House and Senate Education committees convened a hearing at the Coverdell Legislative Office Building in Atlanta to discuss the ongoing debate surrounding the Advanced Placement (AP) African American Studies course. These members released the following statement:
“Our hearing offered a vital platform for a diverse range of voices, including students, parents, and advocacy groups, to present their perspectives on the initial denial and subsequent approval of the AP African American Studies course. Central to the discussion were concerns about the timing of the decision and the impact of legislative measures enacted in 2022. Notably, House bills 1084 and 1178, alongside Senate Bill 226, were raised as concerns for their influence on educational content.
“House bills 1084 and 1178 and Senate Bill 226, which passed along party lines in 2022, address issues related to the teaching of ‘divisive concepts’ and establish a process for the removal of books and other educational resources. The connection between these legislative actions and the recent approval of the AP African American Studies course were focal points of much of the testimony.”
The meeting included an update from the Georgia Department of Education and the College Board on the recent approval process for the African American Studies course and related issues. In response to testimony and concerns raised, committee members pledged to investigate discussed issues and collaborate with the General Assembly to address any underlying problems. They are committed to ensuring that educational policies are fair and equitable so that all students have access to a diverse and comprehensive curriculum. Committee members will continue reviewing testimony and evidence presented during the hearing, providing updates on their findings and any subsequent actions taken.
Democratic Members of the House and Senate Education committees who participated in this meeting include Representatives Segun Adeyina (D-Grayson), Doreen Carter (D-Lithonia), Becky Evans (D-Atlanta), Lydia Glaize (D-Fairburn), Karlton Howard (D-Augusta), Miriam Paris (D-Macon), David Wilkerson (D-Powder Springs) and Senators Sonya Halpern (D-Atlanta), Donzella James (D-Atlanta), Elena Parent (D-Atlanta) and Horacena Tate (D-Atlanta).
To watch a video archive of this meeting, please click below:
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