At Osbourn High School, the African American History courses offer students a new experience and perspective on African Americans, moving far from the traditional textbook and standard narratives. In this course, the topics challenge students to think critically while learning about the social, political, and cultural contributions that African Americans have to American society as a whole.

The teacher, Dr. Wallace, provides students with a new insight into every era of African American history. She intentionally prioritizes including diverse voices and overlooked perspectives that were excluded from traditional history textbooks to ensure her students have a more inclusive understanding of the past. “I have always loved history since I was little. My grandmother made sure I had books about African American history and took me to museums. I did the same for my own daughters. I think teaching the class has influenced me personally because I love to learn new things. I have learned so much while planning and writing the curriculum for African American history. I always try to introduce something new each year.”

The standard portion of this elective, African American history, goes beyond dates and names; it encourages deep discussions on cultural identity, systemic challenges, and the general spirit of strength. Throughout the school year, students gain a personal understanding of the history and culture of African Americans in the United States. “It deepened my understanding by showing me that African Americans were treated more severely because of their skin color than regular history made it seem like. This class helped me not ignore the faults of the United States, but to also acknowledge its flaws,” said freshman Avana Diaz, a student currently taking African American history class.

Tracking the African American experience from 1619 to the present, this standardized course begins with the arrival of Africans to America. Students will examine milestones and analyze cultural developments while exploring the journey from early enslavement through modern life and identity in present-day America.  “I was motivated to take this class last year because I was curious to learn about history that’s specific to my own culture,” said Ameia Parker, a junior who took standard African American history during the 2024-2025 school year.

The Advanced Placement (AP) version of this course, AP African American studies, is an interdisciplinary hands-on course that dives deeper into African descendants around the globe. Students explore African influence and diversity, promoting a broader perspective on people of African descent all over the world. “This class has deepened my understanding of American History because it redefines how the United States became what it is today, and it has taught me a new look at history and how every event leading up to it has affected everyone,” said Jayla Tibbs, a senior taking AP African American studies.

The AP version of this course is equivalent to an introductory college-level African American history course. The contents of this class take place all over the world, with key topics including the African diaspora, slavery, African kingdoms, and modern achievements. The formal course description according to the College Board says, “Drawing from disciplines including history, literature, the arts, geography, science, and law, you’ll study the vital contributions and experiences of African Americans and members of Black communities within the broader context of the African diaspora.” Throughout this course, there is a student-designed research project, in which students will define a research topic and present an argument.

Students gain real-world skills from standard and AP by taking what they have learned in the classroom and putting it into use in real-world scenarios, helping them master course material. “I developed a deeper emotional intelligence, I learned ethical reasoning, and I learned adaptability,” said Jayla Tibbs.

Many colleges also give out college credit for AP scores, and some students also choose to level up from standard to AP simply because they love the content of the subject. This path helps students dive deeper into topics they enjoy, while possibly earning college credits.

These courses both offer a comprehensive exploration of the African American experience while showing a specific narrative of innovation and transformation. No matter which course you decide to take, students develop a profound and overpowering understanding of the impact and importance African Americans have on the United States.