Fairfax County committee recommends expanding AP IB and dual enrollment access for students

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is set to enhance access to Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual enrollment (DE) programs following the recommendations made during the FCPS Advisory Committee Summit held on June 14, 2025. The committee's comprehensive review of current educational offerings and student participation has led to a series of actionable proposals aimed at improving academic pathways for students.

One of the key recommendations is the development of a six-year academic planning and course selection pathway. This initiative aims to address barriers that prevent students from accessing advanced courses by ensuring they receive adequate counseling on AP, IB, and DE options starting in middle school. The committee emphasized the importance of clear communication regarding college admissions criteria and career readiness, which will be integrated into academic advising sessions.

To further promote advanced coursework, the committee suggests that all high schools offer at least one AP or IB course as a standard option. This approach is designed to encourage every student to enroll in at least one advanced course during their high school years, thereby building confidence and fostering a culture of academic rigor. Specific courses, such as AP Human Geography and AP Computer Science Principles, have been identified as potential offerings.

Recognizing the pressures faced by students in rigorous programs, the committee also recommends establishing mentorship networks and support systems to help students manage the demands of AP and IB courses. This includes creating advisory groups that foster peer support and collaboration, as well as providing mental health resources to ensure students maintain a healthy balance between their academic and personal lives.

In addition, the committee advocates for expanding dual enrollment opportunities by incentivizing teachers to obtain the necessary credentials to teach DE courses. Collaborations with local universities, such as Northern Virginia Community College, are encouraged to streamline pathways for teacher qualifications and enhance course offerings.

Finally, the committee stresses the importance of maintaining the rigor of AP, IB, and DE programs as they expand access. They propose the establishment of reporting guidelines to monitor student success and ensure that the quality of these programs is upheld.

These recommendations reflect a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment that prepares all students for future academic and career success. The FCPS community can look forward to these initiatives being implemented in the coming years, paving the way for greater access to advanced educational opportunities.