Here at Kennedy High School, there are a wide variety of opportunities to gain knowledge and skills to help you succeed in the future. Advanced Placement, or AP classes allow you to experience college introductory courses while still in high school. You are able to develop important skills such as effective time management and collaborative abilities.
There is often a negative association followed with the idea of these advanced classes. The late nights, the heavy workload, and the overall advanced level of content tends to drive students away in fear of not being good enough. Yes, it is stressful, yes, you will contemplate your decision to enroll in that class, but if you are willing to put in the effort and step out of your comfort zone, succeeding will not be an issue.
“As long as there is a teacher adequate enough to help you get through this and you really apply yourself, then I feel like it should be an option for everyone.” Jami Martin-Trainor, a sophomore at Kennedy High School, shares some advice regarding AP courses, “Just keep your standards high because that will help push you to work harder to get those good grades.”
Often offered as a two semester class, you are given the opportunity to take the AP Exam at the end of the school year, which can earn you college credits and/or placement in advanced courses if you decide to further your education.
Deciding to take an AP class lets colleges know that you are willing to do what it takes to succeed in your future academic choices.
Lori Clore, a counselor here at Kennedy, informs us that, “ Taking the harder class, the more rigorous version of history for example, looks good. That helps students stand out.”
With 20+ classes to choose from, Kennedy students have lots of choices in regards to AP courses that can cater to your specific interests, yet many students are still hesitant to choose this more challenging route.
Although not official yet, there is a possibility of a new course next school year that may be helpful to those who are unsure. It is designed for students who are, for the first time, currently taking or considering taking AP/ Kirkwood courses. You will learn new strategies of learning, studying, and test takin techniques. You will also have an opportunity to gain a system of support from peers and staff. It will be paced to help you, and other students enrolled in college level courses, succeed.
So, if you are not currently enrolled in an AP class, or you are still unsure, I highly suggest utilizing your resources such as counselors, teachers, and peers, or possibly taking advantage of the new college course readiness class.
