In a surprising reversal, the Francis Howell School Board in Missouri has decided to allow Black history and literature classes to continue in the district's high schools. This decision comes after significant backlash from students, parents, and activists who protested against the initial plan to eliminate these courses.

The board's initial decision to remove the courses was met with immediate opposition. Students organized a petition, which garnered over 3,400 signatures, demanding the reinstatement of the classes. The petition emphasized the importance of understanding significant parts of American history and the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and the workforce.

Protests also took place outside the board meeting, with parents and students chanting, "Let them learn!" These demonstrations highlighted the frustration and disappointment felt by the community over the removal of these courses.

The controversy surrounding the courses stems from concerns about their alignment with a "social justice framework." The board's vice president, Randy Cook, expressed opposition to teaching the courses in this manner, leading to the decision to eliminate them. However, many argue that Black history and literature cannot be taught from a politically neutral perspective, as the Black experience in America has been shaped by socio-political movements.

The Francis Howell School Board has faced racial disputes in the past. Following the killing of George Floyd in 2020, protesters called on the district to address racial discrimination. In response, the board passed an anti-racism resolution, pledging to promote racial healing, especially for Black and brown students and families. However, the resolution was revoked in July, and copies were ordered to be removed from all schools in the district.

The recent decision to reinstate the Black history and literature courses comes with the condition that the curriculum be "rigorous and largely politically neutral." While this decision is seen as a step in the right direction by some, others remain skeptical. Heather Fleming, founder of the Missouri Equity Education Partnership, expressed doubt in the board's ability to act in good faith, stating that the courses cannot be taught from a politically neutral perspective due to the impact of socio-political movements on the Black experience in America.

The Francis Howell School District has a predominantly white student population, with less than eight percent of students identifying as Black. This demographic makeup adds to the significance of offering Black history and literature courses, as it provides an opportunity for students to learn about and appreciate the experiences and contributions of Black individuals in American society.

The controversy surrounding these courses reflects a broader trend in school board elections across the United States. Political action committees have successfully elected candidates who oppose teachings on race and sexuality, leading to the removal of books and the cessation of transgender-inclusive sports teams. The Francis Howell Families political action committee, which supported the conservative-led board members, expressed opposition to the courses, claiming they involve principles of critical race theory, although experts argue that critical race theory is not taught in K-12 schools.

Moving forward, the board plans to revise the curriculum for the Black history and literature courses, aiming to offer an updated standard in the 2024-2025 school year. The decision to allow these courses to continue is seen as a victory for those advocating for a more inclusive and comprehensive education system. However, the ongoing debate surrounding the courses highlights the challenges faced in addressing racial equity and diversity in education.