The AP project-based learning experience is valued by colleges and universities across the U.S. and around the world.
By Gary Weckselblatt
Eleven Quakertown Community High School students earned the AP Capstone Diploma™ during the 2020-21 school year. The program helps students develop critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation skills that are critical to academic success.
The exceptional students are 2021 graduates Rachel X. Anderson, Jonas Moll, and Ava T. Rossini, in addition to current students Yelizaveta P. Hernandez, Madelyn I. LaBonge, Paul W. Lancos, Eliza S. Menser, Alexis N. Mowrer, Sara Nouri, Delaney M. Peckham and Lucas R. Schwartz.
“The accomplishments of these 11 students didn’t happen by accident,” QCHS Principal Mattias van't Hoenderdaal said. “They have worked very hard and this is a testament to their efforts. Our students and teachers showed extraordinary commitment while facing historic challenges. This is a meaningful college readiness program that will serve our students well after high school.”
To receive the AP Capstone Diploma, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research, and on four additional AP Exams. Students are increasingly participating in the AP Capstone program at QCHS. More than 2,000 schools participated in the AP Capstone program worldwide during the 2020-21 school year, when approximately 11,900 students earned the AP Capstone Diploma.
“Congratulations to the AP Capstone award winners, who conduct, present, and defend academic research on topics they are passionate about,” said Trevor Packer, College Board senior vice president of AP and Instruction. “Their ability to manage long-term projects, collaborate with teams, and deliver effective presentations will accelerate both their academic and professional careers.”
The College Board Advanced Placement® Program gives students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school. A 3 or higher on an AP Exam has multiple benefits for students, including earning college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on AP Exams, saving them time and money. Research shows AP students are better prepared for and more likely to enroll and remain in college, do well in classes, and earn their degrees on time. Each exam is developed by a committee of college and university faculty and AP teachers, ensuring that AP Exams align with their high standards.
Gary Weckselblatt, QCSD Director of Communications, writes about the people and the programs that impact the Quakertown Community School District. He can be reached at 215-529-2028 or [email protected].