Youth advisory members press for clearer outreach on AP test cost and dual‑enrollment options

Members of the St. Mary’s County Youth Advisory Commission used their March 4 meeting to press for clearer communication to students about paying for Advanced Placement exams and about dual‑enrollment options that provide college credit.

The commission’s discussion opened after members reported hearing that a state house bill under consideration would require counties to pay for AP exams and then seek state reimbursement; one member described it as, “AP tests are completely free next year,” while noting the measure had not yet passed. Joshua Guy, a commission member who said he contacted the school system, relayed that a Board of Education staffer told him families eligible for FARMS (Free and Reduced Meal Services) often can get funding to cover the test: “She mentioned … FARMS helps the students,” Guy said.

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