Earlier this week, a group of sophomores and juniors (and their parents) were invited to a special assembly to learn more about AP at OLSH. The invited group were identified by the College Board as having AP Potential – or the potential to be successful in one or more specific AP courses based on the student’s performance on the PSAT. As an affiliate school of the University of Notre Dame’s AP TIP-IN Program, OLSH teachers benefit from additional training, collaboration with Notre Dame staff, and access to resources for lesson planning and exam preparation. OLSH has expanded its AP offerings to 17 courses, providing opportunity for advanced study in a range of subject areas.

During the assembly, Dr. Deborah Deakin, OLSH Curriculum Consultant, shared with the students the many benefits to taking AP. Studies have shown that taking just one AP course increases the chance of success in college and current trends indicate that AP courses are a top element college admissions offices are looking for on a student transcript. In addition, AP courses provide students a deeper exploration of subject matter they are interested in and give students the chance to participate in a college-level course while surrounded by a high school support system. Several juniors currently enrolled in AP courses shared their experiences and advice, encouraging those who never considered AP to think about enrolling in a course next year.

OLSH offers 17 AP courses: AP English Literature & Composition, AP English Language & Composition, AP US History, AP World History: Modern, AP US Government and Politics, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Computer Science Principles, AP Computer Science A, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics I, and AP Studio Art (can select concentration in 2D Art & Design, 3D Art & Design, or Drawing). Students taking AP courses at OLSH are required to take the AP exam.