Pine Creek High School introduces AP Capstone Program to enhance academic excellence

During the recent Board of Education meeting for Academy School District No. 20, significant developments were announced regarding Pine Creek High School's Advanced Placement (AP) program. The school is set to introduce the AP Capstone Program, which aims to enhance students' academic experiences and prepare them for college-level challenges.

Pine Creek High School has already established itself as a leader in academic excellence, boasting the highest AP exam pass rate in the district and a notable achievement of 79% of students scoring 3 or higher on AP exams last year. The introduction of the AP Capstone Program is expected to further elevate these statistics and broaden access to advanced coursework.

The AP Capstone Program will begin with the class of 2028, offering students the opportunity to earn either the AP Capstone Diploma or the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. The program emphasizes skill development over content memorization, focusing on critical thinking, research, and communication skills that are essential for success in higher education.

Starting in the fall of 2025, Pine Creek will offer AP Seminar, a course that includes collaborative projects and individual research components. This will be followed by AP Research in 2026, where students will engage in in-depth academic research similar to a graduate-level thesis. These courses are designed to foster independent thinking and collaborative skills, which are increasingly valued by colleges.

The school aims to increase the percentage of seniors taking at least one AP class from 60% to 65%, a move that could help Pine Creek achieve gold status on the AP School Honor Roll. This recognition is awarded to schools that demonstrate both strong AP program results and increased access for students.

Overall, the introduction of the AP Capstone Program at Pine Creek High School represents a strategic effort to enhance educational opportunities and prepare students for future academic success. As the program rolls out, it is anticipated to have a lasting impact on the school's academic landscape and the college readiness of its students.