Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Advanced Placement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Monarch High staff tell board AP participation, pass rates have risen; foundation helps cover exam fees
Summary
Monarch High teachers told the Papillion La Vista board that AP participation has increased and some classes post pass rates 10–30 percentage points above national averages; the district and its foundation help cover the $99 AP exam fee for students taking multiple tests.
Monarch High teachers and administrators presented the school’s Advanced Placement (AP) climate and culture to the Papillion La Vista Community Schools Board on Oct. 27, saying the program has broadened access and posted pass rates well above state and national averages.
Jason Ryan, who introduced the presentation, said the school has expanded AP opportunities and used the 2018 bond-funded additions so students can take exams at their home building rather than traveling. "We're just excited and thankful for the opportunity here tonight to share with you about the advanced placement climate and culture at Monarch High," Ryan said.
AP teachers Greta Hubert and Nick Redding described classroom practices, summer preparation and professional development that they credit for high results. "When they see the students are taking AP, they have more confidence that these students are ready to go and that they're prepared," Hubert said of college admissions expectations.
Presenters provided five-year snapshots showing steady or improving AP enrollment and exam participation. They said the school fields about 18 teachers who currently teach AP courses, and reported that some individual classes have pass rates in the 80–95% range, which presenters characterized as 10–30 percentage points higher than national averages. They also said 60 students last year took three or more AP exams and passed.
Board members raised family communication and cost issues. Hubert noted the AP exam fee is $99 and said the Papillion La Vista Schools Foundation steps in for students who take multiple tests: "If students take 3 or more tests the foundation steps up and helps take care of that for our students." Board members urged continued outreach to parents and noted adding courses requires syllabus approval and teacher training through the College Board process.
The presentation included teacher and student voices about academic growth and the program’s role in preparing students for college. The board did not take action; presenters said new AP offerings (including an additional math course) are under district review and would come through the toolbox process and College Board approvals before being added.
