Arkansas Teacher, Parents, and Students Sue to Restore Critical Race Theory

Plaintiffs say that ceasing state recognition of African American Studies as an Advanced Placement course with college-level credits constitutes discrimination.

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders speaks after taking the oath of office in Little Rock, Ark., on Jan. 10, 2023. AP/Will Newton

When Arkansas public schools resume for the 2024–25 academic year, a legal battle over whether and how teachers can teach critical race theory (CRT) might be ongoing despite a state law that prohibits political indoctrination in the classroom.

Earlier this spring, Little Rock Central High School teacher Ruthie Walls, three students, and two parents sued Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva.