Starting next school year, there are going to be two new, completely unique AP classes offered at WS: AP Seminar and AP Research.
These classes allow students to develop skills in text analysis, research, collaboration, and communication; all skills that are necessary for college and potential careers after college. AP Research allows students to participate in a research project with a topic of their choice.
“The classes are based on thinking. It’s not a science, math, or social studies class. Students need to learn to ask questions and analyze information,” said government teacher Dr. Erin Wigginton, who will be teaching AP Seminar next year.
Both classes are year long and are followed by an AP exam. Students would complete AP Seminar first and followed by AP Research the next year. If students receive a three or higher on both AP exams and have passed four different AP exams, students will be eligible for the AP Capstone diploma.
This diploma will be received only with either the Advanced or Standard diploma of the student’s choice.
“[The AP Capstone Diploma] is really frosting on the cake,” said Wigginton. “It shows that you have gone above and beyond during high school.”
Since you have to take both classes in order to receive the diploma, rising seniors will not be able to complete the program before their graduation. However, it is the perfect opportunity for rising 11th graders to get more research experience that will prepare them for college-level classes and life in general.
“I am interested in the new program because I believe the courses open new ways to gain insight about various topics that may be controversial at the time,” said sophomore Kyrsten Smith.
Many students seem excited about the opportunities that the new classes offer since the classes are unlike any others at WS.
“I was very intrigued by the idea of a class that looks at different subject areas in unique lights, and I think that research is a very important skill to learn,” said sophomore Laura Kirk.
There are some students however, who do not share the same enthusiasm about the class. They are either uninterested in what the class offers or cannot take both years of the courses since they are rising seniors.
“I wouldn’t be interested in the classes. You should take classes in high school that appeal to your interest,” said junior Maggie Everett.
Despite the differing views, the overall goal of the new classes is to allow students who want to develop themselves in their research ability, synthesize abilities, and analyze information in front of them.
“I believe [it’s one of the most important classes]. I think when you have the ability to take a course to effectively analyze information; it strengthens your other classes as well. I’m very excited about the courses, it will be wonderful for our students,” said Wigginton.