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Teachers, students preview new AP Seminar pilot at Northern High
Summary
Northern High teachers described a district pilot of the College Board's AP Seminar course focused on research, evaluation and presentations; students praised improved communication skills and teachers noted the course carries a $150 portfolio fee with a parent opt-in by Oct. 31.
Two Northern High School teachers, Jennifer Keiger and Nikki Damon, presented the AP Seminar pilot to the board and brought students to summarize early outcomes and expectations.
"So we are piloting it at all 3 high schools right now," Jennifer Keiger said, describing how the district is testing the new AP Seminar course in multiple configurations (regular English-10 replacement and elective options for upper grades). The teachers said AP Seminar emphasizes research and non-fiction analysis rather than traditional literature instruction and requires a student portfolio plus a May written exam.
Student Niti Patel said the course was chosen not only for rigor but for its communication benefits: "The reason why I chose AP seminar was not just for the rigor ... it also helps with communication skills," she told the board. Teachers noted the course carries a $150 fee for portfolio evaluation (vs. $100 for other AP classes) and parents must decide on enrollment by Oct. 31.
Board members praised the blending of honors-strand instruction with AP-level research and presentation skills; teachers indicated the program will also support presentation and teamwork skills that they expect to pay off for students in college and careers.
