During the Mississippi Board of Education meeting on February 15, 2024, student representatives highlighted the importance of Advanced Placement (AP) classes and the need for recognition of the rigorous efforts students put into these courses. Kate, a student from Lafayette County, shared her experiences with AP classes, emphasizing the challenges and dedication required to succeed.

Kate began her presentation by expressing excitement about returning to in-person meetings after a significant snow break. She recounted a recent student advisory council meeting at Nissan, where she had the opportunity to engage with virtual reality technology. However, her focus quickly shifted to the academic pressures faced by students, particularly in AP courses, as they prepare for nationwide testing in May.

Over the past three years, Kate has been among the 17% of Mississippi students enrolled in AP classes, taking seven courses across various subjects and earning four college credits. She described AP classes as demanding, requiring deep understanding and application of complex concepts rather than mere memorization. Kate noted that the workload is intense, with frequent homework and lengthy exams that can last several hours.

A key point of her presentation was the need for additional GPA weight for AP courses. Kate argued that students who choose to take these challenging classes should be rewarded for their efforts. She pointed out that without this recognition, students might opt for easier classes to achieve higher grades, undermining the motivation to tackle more difficult coursework.

Kate also compared AP classes to dual credit courses, highlighting that AP classes are generally more affordable and do not impact a student's college GPA if they do not perform well on the exam. This distinction, she argued, makes AP classes a more appealing option for students seeking to challenge themselves academically without the immediate consequences of a dual credit course.

In conclusion, the discussions during the meeting underscored the importance of recognizing the hard work of students in AP classes. The board's consideration of GPA weight for these courses could significantly impact student motivation and academic choices moving forward. As the board continues to evaluate educational policies, the voices of students like Kate will be crucial in shaping a system that values rigorous academic pursuits.