In partnership with the A+ Foundation, West Aurora High School is working to support the Advanced Placement program. The Advanced Placement (AP) program is a cooperative educational endeavor between secondary schools and colleges and universities. It provides students with the exposure to college-level work during high school. It also provides them with the ability to achieve advanced placement, advanced standing, and college credit for courses taken during high school. West Aurora High School currently offers 25 courses in English, Social Studies, Science, Math, Fine Arts, and World Languages.
Earning college credit can only be achieved by taking the AP Exam for the given subject in May and is based on the score that is earned on that exam. Although students are not required to take the exam, there are a myriad of benefits. A student who scores a 3, 4, or 5 on the exam can earn placement or credit at the university level. University policies vary depending on the school and the department, but most offer credit, including the major universities in Illinois.
However, the exam and administration fees cost the student $100. This cost can be prohibitive to many students and families. In order to provide equity of opportunity, the A+ Foundation and West Aurora High School is working to support one exam for every student enrolled in the AP program. This could cost upwards of $50,000 on an annual basis. It is our hope that you will join us in supporting our students by donating to the AP Campaign.
Enclosed you will find a trifold that sets forth how donations can be made. Your contribution will help students be better prepared for college, builds confidence and introduces them to concepts and skills that will stick with them the rest of their lives.
With appreciation for your interest and consideration,
Whitney Martino
Assistant Principal of Teaching and Learning
West Aurora High School
AP Tests Offered at West Aurora High School
Humanities
AP Seminar, Music Theory, Studio Art: Drawing Portfolio, Studio Art: 2-D Design Portfolio, Studio Art: 3-D Design Portfolio, English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition
Social Sciences
European History, Human Geography, Macroeconomics, Psychology, United States Government and Politics, United States History, World History
Math and Science
Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics 1: Algebra-based, Physics 2: Algebra-based
World Language
French Language and Culture, Spanish Language and Culture, Spanish Literature and Culture
Myths/Truths
- Myth: Only students who are recommended by their teacher can take AP courses.
Truth: West Aurora High School has adopted a philosophy that if a student wishes to take an AP course then THEY are ready to challenge and advance themselves. - Myth: AP is for students who always get good grades.
Truth: AP courses are for any student who is academically prepared and motivated to take on college-level courses. - Myth: Students may not score high enough on the AP Exam to get college credit.
Truth: You don’t need to score a 5. Many colleges grant credit, and placement as well, based on a 3 or better. - Myth: The high school, state, and College Board help support students financially with the cost of AP Exams.
Truth: In the past, students have received help financially with the cost of taking an AP Exam. Those funds are no longer available to students. Now, school districts are turning to their foundations to look for real, creative ways to provide students with financial help to make their educational and college-bound path successful.
