Board adopts new AP Psychology text and approves American popular music textbook

The Bristol School District Board of Education on Aug. 6 approved two textbook actions: adoption of a newly published AP Psychology textbook aligned to the College Board’s 2024 course revision, and final approval of a required text for the University of Connecticut Early College Experience (UConn ECE) course History of American Popular Music.

Mr. Ward presented the AP Psychology recommendation, noting the College Board requires AP courses to use college-level textbooks published within the last 10 years. Ward said the district’s prior AP Psychology text was published in 2010 and the recommended title (presented to the board) is a fully revised edition aligned to the 2024 AP Psychology course changes and includes digital resources for teachers and students. The board voted to approve the textbook and waived the second reading so staff could order materials in time for the school year.

Mr. Badley presented the second-reading approval for the History of American Popular Music textbook, a required text for the district’s UConn ECE offering. The board approved the text after a second reading; no further action was required.

Why it matters: Textbook adoptions ensure curricula align with external course standards (for AP and UConn ECE) and allow timely ordering so students have materials at the start of the year.