The Hinsdale Township High School District 86 Regular Action Meeting on November 21, 2024, featured significant discussions regarding the accessibility of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, particularly AP Physics 1. A key concern raised was the recent change in prerequisites for AP Physics 1, which now requires students to complete a biology course before enrolling. This modification has sparked confusion and frustration among educators and students alike, as it deviates from the long-standing requirement of completing algebra 2.

During the meeting, a speaker highlighted that for nine years, the district's prerequisites aligned with College Board guidelines, which state that students should have completed geometry and be concurrently taking algebra 2 to qualify for AP Physics 1. However, the new requirement for a biology course has left students enrolled in the PCB Physics First program unable to access AP Physics 1, raising questions about the decision-making process behind this change.

The speaker emphasized the importance of equitable access to AP courses, as advocated by the College Board, which encourages the elimination of barriers for traditionally underserved student groups. The abrupt introduction of the biology prerequisite was noted to lack public discussion or board presentation, prompting calls for transparency and a reevaluation of the requirements.

In addition to AP Physics 1, concerns were also raised about similar prerequisites affecting other science courses, including meteorology, astronomy, and geology. The speaker urged the district to remove unnecessary prerequisites to ensure that all qualified students have the opportunity to participate in these advanced courses.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to providing equitable educational opportunities while highlighting the need for clear communication and transparency in curriculum decisions. Further discussions and potential actions regarding these prerequisites are anticipated in future meetings.