Classical Learning Test Should Replace College Board's Monopolistic, Ideologically Biased AP System
Source: Brooke Brandtjen. "Classic Learning Test Gives The College Board Competition." February 11, 2026. thefederalist.com
The Gist
The author argues that the College Board's AP program has become a biased monopoly that teaches students to hate America and Western civilization. She believes the Classical Learning Test offers a better alternative that focuses on traditional values and virtue, which will create better citizens and still help students succeed academically.
Conclusion
The Classic Learning Test (CLT) and its classical baccalaureate program should replace the College Board's AP system as the primary pathway for college preparation
Premises
- The College Board has established a harmful monopoly, with roughly 80% of U.S. high schools offering AP classes
- AP classes have become increasingly leftist, promoting identity politics and portraying Western civilization as racist and oppressive
- The College Board's system prioritizes test preparation over genuine educational development and virtue cultivation
- Classical education focusing on Western heritage and virtue better prepares students for real-world skills like communication and collaboration
- Current AP-focused education contributes to political violence and civic unrest by teaching students to reject their civilization
- CLT's approach develops citizens capable of free thought rather than indoctrinated consumers of education
Assumptions
- Western civilization and American heritage are inherently valuable and should be celebrated
- Political bias in education is primarily a problem of leftist indoctrination rather than bias in general
- Classical education methods are superior to modern pedagogical approaches
- Student protests and statue removal are primarily caused by educational content rather than other social factors
- Virtue-based education will naturally lead to better academic and career outcomes