JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Big changes are coming to general education courses at Florida’s colleges and universities. The Board of Governors recently approved a new list of courses that excludes those focusing on systemic racism and privilege, among other topics.
This decision was made during a six-hour board meeting at the University of North Florida. Before the meeting started, about 30 professors and students protested outside, urging the board to reconsider their decisions.
The shift in course offerings goes back to a law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2023. This law gives the board the power to remove classes deemed based on ideas of systemic issues in the U.S., like racism and privilege.
During the meeting, Chancellor Ray Rodrigues pointed out a recent poll that revealed low confidence in higher education. Many respondents believed universities have become too political. They felt that faculty often impose their personal beliefs in the classroom. Other concerns included graduates struggling to find jobs and the rising cost of education.
Before the meeting, several faculty members from UNF voiced their worries. Dr. Matthew Leon, a business professor, expressed frustration about having to change his teaching approach. He mentioned having to include a disclaimer in his syllabus, noting that students aren’t required to accept his lessons on federal law, which has been around for decades.
Leon argued that not addressing these issues in education does a disservice to students. He attended the meeting to emphasize the importance of expert-led education that prepares students for real-world challenges.
It’s worth noting that while the board has restricted these topics from general education requirements, colleges and universities can still offer courses on these subjects. However, they won’t count toward the credits needed for graduation.
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