The Impact of Governor DeSantis' Changes on AP Courses in Florida

Recently, there have been significant discussions surrounding Governor Ron DeSantis' desire to replace AP (Advanced Placement) courses with those he approves. This initiative has raised concerns among educators, policymakers, and students, particularly regarding the acceptance of these courses by colleges and universities. This article explores the potential consequences of such a move and delves into the legal and practical challenges it presents.

DeSantis' Demand for Course Removal

DeSantis has ordered the removal of what he refers to as 'objectionable material' from certain AP courses, particularly AP Psychology. He aims to remove content that he deems inappropriate or illegal, including material now forbidden at all levels, including collegiate. This decision has sparked debates across Florida and the nation, highlighting the potential divide between state and national educational standards.

The Consequences for Florida College Students

The Florida Board of Governors has been given the task of deciding whether to keep these objectionable AP courses or remove them entirely. Some colleges have declared that they will discontinue AP Psychology if it is altered, which would be a significant blow to psychology students in Florida. The rationale behind such a decision is that these courses are integral to their academic progress and the removal of key components could disrupt their educational journey.

Implications for Educational Institutions in Florida

The changes proposed by DeSantis could have far-reaching implications for Florida's educational institutions, potentially making them incompatible with other universities. This could lead to loss of accreditation, affecting the credibility and reputation of these institutions. Moreover, Florida's universities might be perceived as 'fake universities' like Trump University, raising serious questions about their academic standards and integrity.

The Legal and Practical Challenges

Replacing AP and SAT courses in Florida is not a straightforward task. Multiple factors complicate this process:

Teacher Bonuses: Teachers in Florida benefit from bonuses for AP courses, making the transition more challenging. Statutory Recognition: AP is mandated in Florida statutes as an acceleration mechanism, adding another layer of complexity to the changes. Institutional Admissions: Florida's universities require SAT scores for admissions, per Florida Statutes, making it compulsory to maintain the status quo. Brightness Futures Scholarships: SAT scores and weighted GPAs, including AP courses, are crucial for securing scholarships, again tied to Florida statutes.

Fascinatingly, the battle for these laws has largely been fought through statutory means rather than rule changes, highlighting the robust nature of these legislative provisions.

The Broader Implications

The changes proposed by DeSantis would not just affect universities outside of Florida but also within the state. He cannot control which colleges and universities accept certain credits, and this autonomy could have adverse effects on student admissions and test scores. For Florida universities, admitting students who score lower on placement tests like the SAT and ACT would mean fewer students getting into these institutions, both locally and nationally.

Despite these challenges, some community colleges may offer a semblance of acceptance for these credits, particularly if the courses meet certain criteria. However, these institutions often have low academic standards, and graduates may struggle to find employment in their respective fields, leading to concerns about the preparedness of students.

In conclusion, Governor DeSantis' proposed changes offer a challenging landscape for Florida's education system, with potential repercussions on accreditation, student preparedness, and institutional reputation. The path forward will require careful consideration and negotiation to ensure the best outcome for students, educators, and institutions alike.