Monday, October 21, 2019

Changes in Advanced Placement Exams

Big, positive changes in Advanced Placement program this year! All students enrolled in a fall AP class (or choosing to just take the exam) will need to commit by mid-November to taking their exam! As proven in the demo sites, this early commitment deadline keeps students more engaged throughout the year and increases exam scores. Students in spring AP classes will have until early-March to decide to take the exam. 

Other bonus? Additional online course resources have been added to keep students and teachers well-paced throughout the year. Similar to a Google Classroom, students will use a join code to access the classroom. Teachers are still learning how to use the new system so the use of this resource will slowly build. At minimum, students need to join this online classroom, as that is how exam orders will be completed for both exam only students and students in the AP course. 

No change in student fees...except, a $40 change-of-mind fee. AP’s survey of students found that if students decide after the exam order deadline to NOT take exam, that a hefty $40 penalty would be enough to keep them committed. 

When deciding to take the AP exam...the biggest question is...why WOULDN’T you? It is a great chance to earn college credit and show off what you know! Plus, it is excellent practice for future standardized tests. Money should never be a limiting factor in choosing to take the exam and AP coordinators have resources available. Questions? Contact your site AP Coordinator or district AP Coordinator - ramato@sandi.net