Broward schools suggests parents ‘opt-in’ to take AP Psychology course

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (FLV) – Broward County Public Schools decided to keep the AP Psychology course on the condition that parents “opt-in” to the class on behalf of their children.

“Recognizing the depth and breadth of topics covered in AP Psychology and in line with the importance of prioritizing student well-being and parental choice, we have decided to make enrollment for this elective an ‘opt-in’ process that expressly requires parental consent,” said Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata.

The school district’s announcement came after Palm Beach schools decided to keep the curriculum amidst back-and-forth with the state and the College Board, which oversees AP courses.

The College Board initially suggested it would withhold the curriculum’s AP status from the course because the Florida Board of Education prohibited in April teaching gender and sexual orientation through 12th grade.

A section of the course material includes describing “how sex and gender influence socialization and other aspects of development.”

This week, Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. issued another letter making it clear that AP Psychology could be taught in compliance with Florida law.

“I believe I was clear in my previous letter, but I want to make sure there is no room for misinterpretation,” Diaz said.

Broward schools will communicate personally with parents with information and a form complete the “opt-in” process.

Last academic year, approximately 2,500 Broward County Public School students registered in AP Psychology.