“Black studies is the in depth exploration and interdisciplinary study of the experiences and collective knowledge and culture of Black people of African descent throughout the world.”

- Dr. Kofi Lomotey

Black Studies as the Study of the World

The Black Education Research Center (BERC) at Teachers College, Columbia University has led a team of influential Black Studies scholars, educators, and New York City classroom teachers. These experts in culturally responsive curriculum and teaching have collaboratively developed a historic curriculum for the children of New York City Public Schools.

The Results

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • The curriculum contains a rich array of educator resources to support teachers. Black Studies content knowledge and instructional tips for lesson plan implementation.

  • 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).

  • The Black Studies Curriculum will be released on New York City Public School’s WeTeach digital platform in June 2024.

  • 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 implemenation in the Fall of 2024.