Advanced Placement (AP) classes provide students with a more rigorous curriculum that helps them prepare for college. The courses allow students who are interested in a specific field to further explore while still in the high school environment. In order for a student to earn early college credit, they must pass a test that is administered at the end of the year.
In Illinois, scoring a 3 or higher on that test qualifies students for at least some college credit at public colleges and universities. According to the Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois leads the nation in AP Exam Performance and Participation. Over the past decade, Illinois had the largest increase of any state in its percentage of high school graduates scoring a 3 or higher on an AP Exam, according to data released by the College Board.
This year, Galesburg High School had a total of 155 students take AP exams.
AP Exam Breakdown:
Psychology: 15
Literature and Composition: 11
Human Geography: 8
Statistics: 7
Drawing: 5 (AP Drawing students submit a digital portfolio)
Calculus AB: 6
Calculus BC: 7
Computer Science Principles: 13
Language and Composition: 33
Spanish Language: 1
Biology: 14
Physics: 35
According to Stephanie Woodard, Family Engagement Specialist, the testing weeks went very well, "We were very fortunate to have access to the Bright Futures building which provided a quiet environment and plenty of space for the students. Many of the AP instructors provided snacks for the students during breaks and our Food Service department made sack lunches for the afternoon testers. We had quite a few students who took multiple exams this year and are proud of their commitment to their education."
If a student is interested in taking an AP course, we encourage them to reach out to their counselor.
