A History Debate In Hinsdale D86?

HINSDALE, IL – A Hinsdale High School District 86 board member who opposes the plan to de-emphasize European history wants to bring up the topic for discussion.

In late March, social studies teachers presented changes to the curriculum.

At Thursday's meeting, member Debbie Levinthal asked for the board to have a discussion at its May 25 meeting.

But member Terri Walker asked, "Didn't we just hear from the social studies department?"

Levinthal said the board really did not have a discussion at that meeting and that she wanted to see how the board feels about the changes.

Board President Catherine Greenspon asked the superintendent to put the issue on the May 25 agenda.

Under the district's plan, Advanced Placement European History will no longer be a part of the honors track for sophomores. It is being replaced by AP Modern World History.

AP European History is set to become an elective for juniors and seniors.

At the March meeting, Levinthal called AP European History one of the "legendary" and "beloved" courses at Hinsdale Central and South.

"Our AP scores on AP European History blow the national average out of the water," Levinthal said.

Social studies teachers said AP Modern World History would include more cultures than just those in Europe.

"Some students see themselves in-depth in the curriculum. Other students don't see themselves at all," said Kathy Lencioni, chairwoman of South's social studies department. "Some students only see themselves through the lens of oppression in the curriculum through slavery and imperialism."