Cherry Hill becomes first school district in NJÂ to require African American history course Cherry Hill becomes first school district in NJ to mandate African American history course The idea of a mandated African American history class came from students themselves after the death of George Floyd. CHERRY HILL, N.J. - Cherry Hill has become the first school district in New Jersey to mandate an African American History course for graduation. "We need to celebrate Black excellence. We need to celebrate what has made this so strong and so successful," Cherry Hill Schools Superintendent Dr. Joseph Meloche said. Starting next fall in Cherry Hill, a full semester, two a half-credit court will be a requirement for the district's 11,000 plus students.