GHS looking at changing AP fees
GREENCASTLE -- Changes are happening in Greencastle High School's Advanced Placement program.
On Wednesday, guidance counselor Shannon Fritz presented the Greencastle Community School Corp. Board of Trustees with several possible scenarios for how fees are charged for AP testing.
Currently, the state pays for all students in math and science courses to take AP exams. Any tests taken by students who receive free or reduced lunches are also fully paid for.
Dual credit agreements exist between GHS and Ivy Tech for AP English language, biology and U.S. history courses. AP exams are scored on a 1-5 scale, and any score of 3 or higher is a guaranteed elective credit at Indiana public universities.
The school system has been paying for students to take the exams, but some of the proposed changes would mean parents could have to foot the bills going forward.
The exams cost $78 each. Some suggestions given to the board by Fritz and GHS principal Randy Corn were to reimburse any students who scored a 3 or higher on the exams or giving students who received a score of 3 or higher an "AP Scholarship" in the amount of $75.
Fritz listened to the board's comments and concerns, and said she would come back to the July meeting with proposals.
"I'd like to have something voted on and approved by the August meeting," she said. "In late August, we're planning an open house for parents to explain deadlines and policies for the year."
In 2010, GHS offered five AP courses -- biology, calculus, English literature, U.S. history and studio art. In the coming school year three additional courses -- English language, government and Latin -- will also be offered.
To graduate with an Academic Honors Diploma, students must either take two AP courses with corresponding exams, earn six transferrable dual credits or take one AP course with corresponding exam and earn three transferrable dual credits.
Greencastle High School was recently commended by the Indiana Department of Education for improvement in its AP scores. Since 2006, the number of GHS students that received a 3 or higher on AP exams has risen 18 percent.
"We're very proud of our students and our teachers," said Superintendent Bob Green.