Bartlett to raise rigor in its curriculum; add AP courses

Bartlett to raise rigor in its curriculum; add AP courses

Principal Michael Hackenson announced the 2011-2012 School Improvement Plan, which focuses on a rigorous curriculum for Bartlett Junior/Senior High School.  The plan increase from four to ten the number of Advanced Placement course offerings, giving more students an opportunity to take the courses, which are equivalent to college/university level work, enhancing college readiness.

AP courses to be offered for school year 2012-2013 are as follows:   English Language, English Literature, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, US History, Spanish, Art, Calculus, and Statistics.  Courses currently offered are English Literature, Biology, US History and Calculus.

Bartlett teachers and administration have reviewed student potential and will encourage students to take at least one AP course. The courses will be offered in junior and senior year.  In order to prepare students for the courses, accelerated classes in grade 10 will also be developed as a stepping stone to prepare students on how to handle college-level work.

“It’s not always the intelligence level of the student but teaching them how to better use their time, work together, and get results that will make them successful in college.  Time management is a key issue and that needs to begin in grades 8, 9, and 10 to prepare all students for the rigor of AP courses,” said Mr. Hackenson. “That way all students will be prepared and able to access at least one AP course before they graduate.”

To support the new AP initiative, the program of studies is being revamped to provide pathways for all students to access AP courses.  Teacher data, standardized testing, and student classroom performance will identify potential AP students, who will be encouraged to participate.

An AP Potential Night is planned to involve parents, students, AP teachers and representatives from colleges to review the value of AP courses in preparing for students acceptance by any college of their choice.  Identification and recruiting will begin as early as the 8^th grade.  “This is truly an exciting time, we are ready to take the school and its curriculum to the next level,” said Mr. Hackenson.