Advanced Placement (AP) courses are college preparatory classes that can give college credit when a qualifying score is earned on the AP exam at the end of the year. Most students take these courses to be more prepared for the next step toward their education. 

There are a variety of AP classes that can be taken in high school, it is up to the student to decide which one will fit best for them. They are harder classes that go more in depth with units and move at a faster pace.

“It was fast but bearable,” said BHS sophomore Malachi Schumacher.

An AP course is meant for students who are dedicated and who are willing to put in the work. They need to have a good mindset and attitude to handle the work of these classes.

“I do suggest taking AP classes to students,” said AP biology teacher Valeri Smallbeck. “Especially those that have the prerequisite classes and I know will be continuing their education after high school.” 

An AP course has a heavy workload and requires a lot of time. Time management is a big factor in these classes because of this.

“A great deal of work outside of the normal school day is required, for science classes that may mean coming to school on weekends to set up labs, to teach an AP course. Usually the hardest working, most compliant, self-motivated students are in my AP classes,” said Smallbeck.

AP classes also give the opportunity to meet and get to know new people. Participating in an AP class can allow students to communicate with different students about the class if they need help.

“I like meeting new people in the classes,” said BHS sophomore Ryler Berger. “I’ve definitely met some people from AP classes who I’ll be friends with forever.”

An AP course is a college level class, meaning it is meant to prepare students for college. It helps develop a person’s work ethic while also forcing students to set priorities, meaning they will have to set aside hanging out with friends sometimes.

“AP classes provides more preparation for college courses because they themselves are college level content with college level expectations,” said Smallbeck.

At the end of every year, there is an AP exam. The first STEM AP exam is free, then it goes up in price as more tests are taken. Students have the option to take this. The AP exam is what gives credit for college if a qualifying score is attained.

“I get to teach at a deeper level and get to work with students that usually have greater motivation to do well,” said Smallbeck.