During the past school year, students in advanced placement classes have been studying at a higher level while gaining college credit for the class as well. Meanwhile, students in regular classes have been working at a highschool level on a different paced schedule. 

For many students in high school, they may be wondering what classes they should be preparing for and taking in the next coming year. There’s often many benefits and drawbacks from each class, so it’s up to the student to know what’s best for them. 

This year,  Elijah Jacomine (‘26) chose to be in advanced placement classes like AP U.S. history, physics and AP language. Jacomine had already taken AP classes before this year so he knew what to expect. 

“I think just be immensely prepared to have a couple late nights and make sure you get the work done because that’s really the hardest part of it,” Jacomine said.

In order to be placed into the AP classes you will have to be recommended to take the class before and then submit a request while figuring out your schedule. Hannah Schmelzer (‘26) was put into regular classes at AHS. 

“It’s just easier for me to take regular classes. AP classes are harder, and I’m a procrastinator. So AP classes just wouldn’t be the best option for me” Schmelzer said.

Another reason that many students choose to take more advanced classes whether they’re difficult or not is to receive college credit. 

In his past four years, Larry Bowen (‘25) has been in three advanced placement classes at AHS for this reason.

“The college credit is going to help me graduate a lot quicker once I’m going to Washington State University, so that’s my main factor of why I do it all,” Bowen said.