BCPS implements parental consent requirement for AP Psychology enrollment

Broward County, Florida – Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) has formally introduced an “opt-in” enrollment policy for high school students wishing to pursue Advance Placement (AP) Psychology in the 2023/24 academic year.

Acknowledging the expansive and detailed content of AP Psychology, BCPS underscores the vital role of student well-being and parental involvement in course selection.

Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata articulated the reasoning behind this move, stating, “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.”

To facilitate informed decision-making, the school district will furnish parents with comprehensive information, including an opt-in form. For an extensive overview of the course, parents are recommended to visit the College Board’s website: apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-psychology.

During the last academic year, AP Psychology attracted around 2,500 students from BCPS. This policy revision has been instigated by certain recent events. The College Board noted that the Florida Department of Education identified particular course materials that contravene state guidelines.

Governor Ron DeSantis ratified Florida law (HB 1069) which limits discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity for students up to the eighth grade. Subsequently, the state’s Board of Education approved a directive, requiring high school educators to refrain from addressing these subjects unless they conform to state academic criteria or are essential components of reproductive health or general health courses that offer parental opt-out options.