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Board splits on AP capstone but approves expanded Spanish pathways
Summary
Trustees defeated motions to add AP Research and AP Seminar after debate over access and schedule tradeoffs, but unanimously approved world history taught in Spanish and a Spanish for native speakers course to strengthen dual‑language pathways.
The Monrovia Unified School District board considered multiple high‑school course proposals on Feb. 25, splitting sharply over whether to expand certain Advanced Placement (AP) offerings while unanimously approving Spanish‑language courses.
Two AP‑linked items — AP Research and English 10 AP Seminar (part of the AP Capstone pathway) — drew extended discussion about equity, schedule trade‑offs and strategic alignment with the Wasque visiting committee recommendations. Board members voiced differing priorities: some trustees argued that adding AP capstone distinctions will help students stand out for competitive admissions and broaden access, while others said the district should first address system‑wide course sequencing, English‑learner preparation and impacts on electives and staffing. On roll calls recorded in the meeting, the motions to approve AP Research and AP Seminar failed (each vote split 2‑3).
By contrast, the board approved two bilingual course additions aimed at dual‑language learners: a year‑long World History taught in Spanish that meets UC/CSU A‑G history requirements, and Spanish for Native Speakers 3 to deepen advanced Spanish literacy. Both were adopted unanimously.
Votes at a glance
- AP Research: motion failed (2 yes, 3 no). - English 10 AP Seminar: motion failed (2 yes, 3 no). - World History in Spanish (UC/CSU A‑G A3): approved 5‑0. - Spanish for Native Speakers 3: approved 5‑0.
Ending — what’s next
District staff said the AP items can be revisited after further planning on access and staffing, and emphasized continued partnerships on early college and CTE pathways to expand rigorous options for a broader set of students.
