Posted on

Extra Credit: Students Tackle College-Level Work

 

A classroom full of students sits at individual desks facing a teacher who is standing at the front of the room next to a projected slide. The room is decorated with student artwork, posters, and classroom materials, and the students appear to be engaged in a lesson.
Students research topics and practice civic discourse as part of CIHS American Government.

When students enter Rachel May’s College in the High School (CIHS) Spanish 4 classroom they have effectively stepped onto a college campus. It’s a noticeable change. Once they cross the threshold, students-who began studying the language in seventh grade–must converse entirely in Spanish. That includes conjugating verbs into the future tense as they worked on a project to imagine a future world.

Is college-level work challenging? ¡Sí!

May’s students are among more than 65 students preparing for the future by taking on the challenge of Advanced Placement (AP) and CIHS courses. 

Two students sit at a classroom desk working on a Spanish assignment. One writes on a worksheet with a pink pen while textbooks, notebooks, and flags from Spanish‑speaking countries decorate the room.
Students conjugate verbs in the future tense during CIHS Spanish 4.

“I decided to take advanced coursework because I enjoy being challenged academically. I wanted classes that would push me to think more deeply, strengthen my skills, and better prepare me for future academic goals,” said junior Lillian K. In addition to enrolling in Spanish 4, Lillian has taken on the challenge of AP U.S. History and AP English Literature and Composition.

A student stands at the front of a classroom giving a presentation on the War of 1812. A large screen behind the student displays historical images and bullet points related to the conflict. Classroom posters and notes decorate the surrounding walls.
Each student must give presentations as part of AP US History.

Students completing CIHS classes may earn three college credits. Students who earn a qualifying score on an AP exam are typically eligible to receive college credit or advanced placement in college. Beyond those benefits, students feel energized.

“The challenge keeps me engaged and I am always learning something new,” said junior Aleah B. “The courses require more effort and the need to stay on task, but it helps me grow as a student.”

It’s an effort she’s familiar with having enrolled in AP Calculus, AP U.S. History and CIHS Spanish 4.

On left: Three students stand outside on a snowy pavement, with one student in the foreground holding a small blue tray and collecting a snow sample. Cars and winter trees are visible in the background under a cloudy sky. On right: Three students stand outside on a snowy pavement, with one student in the foreground holding a small blue tray and collecting a snow sample. Cars and winter trees are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.
Students learn how to use a snow core sampler and a Loumi-Loupe lens to collect data in AP Environmental Science.

AP Environmental Science students recently crossed the threshold to college-level work by stepping into a cold and wet pile of snow. But exactly how wet was it? They braved the chill to master new tools to measure temperature, wetness, weight density and depth and get a better look at individual snow crystals. They’re studying how weather conditions affect snow at a more granular level.

“I took the class to challenge myself and for a better college resume,” said student Guillerimo M. In addition to AP Environmental Science, his resume will include his work in CIHS Sociology, American Government, and Economics classes.

A teacher leans over a student’s desk to offer guidance as the student works. Another student’s hand is visible in the foreground holding a pencil. A laptop on the desk displays a map, and colorful instructional posters line the walls.
CIHS Introduction to Literature teacher Marissa Lombardo helps students explore important themes in a short story by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Lillian points out that she is improving her personal skills as she takes on new subjects. “AP classes are challenging because they move at a faster pace and require more independent learning, critical thinking, and consistent effort,” she said. “Balancing the workload can be difficult at times, but the challenge has helped me become more organized, resilient, and confident in my academic abilities.”

Saving time and money by earning college credits in high school is very attractive to students and their families. Perhaps equally important – the classes help bring dreams into focus.

Aleah plans to pursue a major in the medical field. Guillerimo is considering communications majors. Lillian wants to study psychology and criminal justice to help people through prevention and rehabilitation programs.

Each would encourage other students to take on the challenge.

“AP classes are challenging, but they are worth it if you are willing to put in the effort,” said Aleah. “They help you build strong study habits, time-management skills, and confidence in your abilities.” 

That’s music to Superintendent Mark Place’s ears. His “Beyond Good Enough” initiative encourages all students, no matter where they are academically, to seek out challenges and opportunities for growth.

“We’re proud of our students for challenging themselves through AP and CIHS classes,” said Superintendent Place. “They’re proving that when we set high expectations and expand opportunity, they don’t just accept the challenge, they go above and beyond. The skills and confidence they build today will serve them well in college, careers, and life.”

Aleah says support is available.

“Even though the work can feel overwhelming at times, the experience prepares you for college-level expectations and shows you what you are capable of. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and stay organized—those habits make a big difference.”

Advanced course options vary each year. For the 2025-26 year, MCS offers:

  • AP English Literature and Composition  
  • AP Environmental Science  
  • AP Psychology 
  • AP U.S. History  
  • AP World History 
  • CAD/CAM and 3D Replication
  • CIHS American Government 
  • CIHS Introduction to Literature 
  • CIHS Micro Economics  
  • CIHS Sociology  
  • CIHS Spanish 4