Public schools played a crucial role in Black history in the United States. Prior to the Civil War, Black individuals were not allowed to be educated, and it was illegal in many states for enslaved individuals to be literate. After the Civil War, the Freedmen's Bureau established schools to provide education to newly freed slaves. These schools were often the only form of education available to Black children.

The landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education in 1954 struck down the doctrine of "separate but equal" in the education system, leading to the desegregation of public schools. This decision was a major victory in the civil rights movement and paved the way for greater educational opportunities for Black students.

However, the fight for educational equality continued as Black students faced discrimination, unequal resources, and systemic challenges in public schools. The implementation of policies such as busing, affirmative action, and Title IX aimed to address these disparities and promote greater diversity and inclusion in the education system.

Today, public schools continue to be a battleground for issues of race, equity, and social justice. Efforts to close the achievement gap, increase diversity among educators, and provide culturally relevant curriculum are ongoing initiatives to ensure that all students receive a quality education regardless of their race or background.