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The Advanced Placement Program (AP) is a collaborative effort between motivated students, dedicated teachers, and committed high schools, colleges, and universities. Since its inception in 1955, the program has allowed millions of students to take college-level courses and exams, and to earn college credit or placement while still in high school. Nearly 60 percent of United States high schools currently participate in AP, and most of the nation’s colleges and universities have an AP policy granting incoming students credit, placement, or both for qualifying AP exam grades.
The Advanced Placement Program is best known for giving high school students the opportunity to earn college credit, to save on college tuition, and even graduate early from college. AP offers students additional benefits as well, including:
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AP allows high school students to take courses that are challenging, rigorous, and in-depth.
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AP prepares students to succeed in college. Answers in the Tool Box, a recent United States Department of Education study, reports that participation in AP and other challenging high school courses is one of the strongest predictors of college success.
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The credits students earn for their AP achievements may enable them to travel abroad, or to undertake a combined bachelor’s and master’s program.
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Students may also take more advanced courses in disciplines where they have received a firm grounding from AP.
Students who participate in AP are ultimately given the responsibility to reason, analyze, and understand for themselves. Such intellectual training inevitably helps them succeed in college, where these skills are essential. All students are strongly encouraged to take at least one Advanced Placement course while in high school.
AP on the rise at DDHS
Delavan-Darien High School is making progress in its advancement test scores. In 2008-09, 64 percent of students passed Advanced Placement tests with a 3 or above, the highest percentage for the district since the 1996-97 school year. The passing scores have been on the increase, with a 26 percent gain from 2004-05 and a 43 percent jump since 2000-2001.
Students who sign up for Advanced Placement courses will be expected to take corresponding the AP Exam in May. The cost for this exam will be approximately $85. Students will not be denied the ability to take an Advanced Placement exam due to financial need.
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