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Watertown High’s pre-AP pilot reports early gains; 18 students in first year
Summary
A pilot pre-AP English course at Watertown High School served 18 ninth-grade students this year; staff reported measurable growth in diagnostic assessments and several students recommended for AP or honors English next year.
Watertown High School showcased results of a year-one pre-AP English pilot during the March 24 school committee meeting. The program aims to provide targeted, skills-based instruction to ninth-grade students who have room to strengthen writing and analysis skills.
Course design and students: Casey Andrews, the district’s 9–12 English curriculum coordinator, said the pilot enrolls 18 students chosen by recommendation and student interest; typical candidates were those with B or lower in English 9 who were motivated to close skill gaps. The class was described as demographically reflective of the high school population and included multilingual learners, students with individualized education programs (IEPs) and students with 504 plans.
Assessment and outcomes: The pre-AP course uses regular diagnostic multiple-choice checks and timed writing tasks aligned to pre-AP rubrics. Andrews said students have shown average growth, moving from “needs improvement” toward “approaching expectations” on writing tasks across three of five units completed so far. Five students have been recommended for AP English Literature next year; eight are recommended for honors English 11; five will continue in level-1 coursework.
Student perspective and classroom practice: Student presenter Sarah Spickler described peer workshop practices, where students read essays aloud in a circle and provide structured feedback that informs revision. Andrews said 12 of 18 students said they would consider serving as teaching assistants in future iterations — a sign of student investment.
Committee response: Committee members praised the students’ presentation and asked whether the pilot would expand. Andrews said the current profile of the course makes a larger expansion unlikely immediately—there were not more recommended students this year—but district groups studying advanced coursework are discussing potential pathways in other subjects.
Next steps: The pilot will finish its remaining units this year; staff said they will continue to monitor growth metrics and make course-recommendation decisions for rising juniors and seniors based on demonstrated writing proficiency and course grades.
