The Black Studies Curriculum
“As the first district-wide PK-12 curriculum of its kind, the Black Studies as the Study of the World curriculum will enrich the student learning experience in New York City public schools. This curriculum reflects decades of scholarly research, community organizing, policy advocacy and leadership committed to ensuring students have access to lessons that infuse the experiences of people of African descent in the U.S. and throughout the world. It is now essential that the curriculum is available and accessible to as many New York City schools and students as possible, and we are proud to have the opportunity to prepare educators to implement the curriculum in their classrooms.”
Lesson Plans
Over 100 comprehensive lessons plans have been created to aligned with New York State social studies standards, as well as Next Gen Standards for English Language Arts and History & Social Studies. The Black Studies curriculum framework spans Pre-Kindergarten to 12 grade with topics include the study of early African civilizations, the global migrations of African people throughout the African Diaspora, the continuum of the Black experience in America from the 17th century, as well as Black history in New York State and local Black histories from New York City. The lessons are interdisciplinary, culturally affirming, and relevant to all NYC students as they study the history and contemporary landscapes of America, Africa, and the world.
Curriculum Framework
The Black Studies Curriculum Framework illustrates the chrono-thematic map Black Studies content that progresses across each grade band, from Pre-Kindergarten to 12th Grade, in alignment with units of study in the NYCPS social studies scope and sequence. The Black Studies Curriculum Framework is the foundation for the current lessons created for NYCPS and for the future development of the curriculum.
Pedagogical Document
The curriculum contains a rich array of educator resources to support teachers. Black Studies content knowledge and instructional tips for lesson plan implementation.
Professional Learning Programs
BERC has developed and delivered a series professional learning programs for teachers, school leaders and staff to advance their understanding of the field of Black Studies, learn specific Black Studies curriculum content, and experience instructional models. These professional learning programs have reached over 1,000 school and community educators across all five boroughs of New York City (and counting).
Digital Platform
The Black Studies Curriculum will be released on New York City Public School’s WeTeach digital platform in June 2024.
Summer Conference
In July, BERC will host its first annual Summer Conference where the Black Studies Curriculum will be the centerpiece for educator engagement through scholarly panels, curriculum workshops, and design labs where teachers can collaboratively plan for implementation in the Fall of 2024.