UPPER SCHOOL
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AP POLICIES BY DEPARTMENT


2024-2025 AP INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS

AP Informational Meetings in 2024-2025 will be held on the following dates:

February 6: Social Studies
  • AP United States History: 9:30-9:45 in the "V"
  • AP African American Studies: 9:45-10:00 in the "V"
  • AP United States Government and Politics: 10-10:15 in the "V"
February 10: Fine Arts: 9:30-9:45 in the Auditorium
February 13: Mathematics: 9:30-10:00 in the "V"
February 18: Science
  • AP Chemistry: 9:30-9:45 in SCI-215
  • AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based: 9:30-9:45 in SCI-211
  • AP Environmental Science: 9:45-10 in SCI-212
  • AP Biology: 10-10:15 in SCI-212
February 20: World Languages
  • AP Chinese Language and Culture: 9:30-9:45 in US-202
  • AP French Language and Culture: 9:30-9:45 in US-214
  • AP Spanish Language and Culture: 9:30-9:45 in US-219
February 27: AP English Literature and Composition: 9:30-9:45 in US-314 

Be sure to check the upper school calendar for exact times and locations for these meetings. 

INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS ABOUT AP COURSES

To be considered for an AP course, students must attend an informational meeting hosted by the relevant academic department. These meetings provide crucial information and are essential for receiving a department recommendation. Check the upper school calendar for specific dates, times, and locations. If you cannot attend a meeting, contact the department chair directly.

Before attending any informational meetings, students should review the AP course eligibility information on this site and discuss potential AP courses with their families, teachers, and advisors.
Enrollment in AP courses depends on whether the student meets all course prerequisites and receives a recommendation from their teacher in the associated department.

Teachers will enter course recommendations (including AP) into MyNSCD. Students and their families will have access to these recommendations when the course registration system opens in mid-March. If you have any concerns about AP course recommendation(s), please address them with the relevant teacher(s) and department chair(s).

PHILOSOPHY OF AP (ADVANCED PLACEMENT)

North Shore Country Day School (NSCD) offers a comprehensive Advanced Placement (AP) program in partnership with the National College Board. AP courses are rigorous, college-level classes taught by our experienced faculty. These courses allow students to engage with challenging material and potentially earn college credit through the nationally administered AP exams at the end of each course.

AP ENROLLMENT
To ensure students maintain a balanced and enriching academic experience, NSCD has established the following enrollment guidelines for AP courses:
  • Eleventh Grade: Students may enroll in a maximum of two AP courses.
  • Twelfth Grade: Students may enroll in a maximum of three AP courses.
These limits promote student well-being and allow participation in the diverse range of academic, artistic, and athletic opportunities at NSCD.

Eligibility and Expectations for AP Courses
The decision to enroll in an AP course should be carefully considered based on a student's demonstrated academic performance and commitment to rigorous study. Successful AP students typically possess the following qualities:
  • Intellectual Curiosity and Maturity: A genuine interest in learning and the ability to engage with complex ideas.
  • Active Participation: Willingness to contribute thoughtfully to class discussions and group activities.
  • Strong Work Ethic: Disciplined study habits and a commitment to consistent effort.
  • Independent Learning: Ability to work autonomously and engage in self-assessment.
  • Mastery of Prerequisites: Solid understanding of foundational knowledge and skills.
  • Effective Reading Comprehension: Ability to analyze and interpret complex texts.
  • Time Management: Skill in managing complex assignments and meeting deadlines.
  • Analytical Thinking: Ability to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Due to the demanding nature of AP courses, an application process is generally required.

Balancing Academic Commitments
AP courses require a significant time commitment. NSCD encourages students to consider their overall academic, artistic, and athletic involvement when applying for AP courses. We prioritize student well-being and strive to create a balanced educational experience.
  • All AP course schedules are reviewed, especially those of students planning to take multiple AP courses.
  • In exceptional cases, students may request to take three AP courses in eleventh grade or four in twelfth grade. These requests require administrative approval.
NSCD is dedicated to supporting students in their pursuit of academic excellence while fostering a well-rounded and fulfilling high school experience.