Students move forward with AdvanceKentucky

DCPS high school students have an opportunity to move forward on the road to lifelong success with AdvanceKentucky, which offers accelerated learning in mathematics, science and English. AdvanceKentucky is designed to dramatically expand access to, participation in, and student success in Kentucky high schools as measured by results on rigorous, national Advance Placement (AP) math, science and English exams. This design is based on a proven model of success for over 10 years. 

AdvanceKentucky is an initiative of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC), which is a non-profit founded in 1987 to promote science and technology. This is a partnership with the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI). 

Demonstrated success is being achieved through implementation of teachers’ professional development and assistance for students. Specifically, the comprehensive approach includes content training, teacher and student mentoring, open enrollment, and incentives. The college-level AP courses are taught by specially trained and credentialed teachers. NMSI’s unique methodology includes a training regimen for teachers that enables them to more effectively teach AP concepts and curriculum. NMSI also provides teaching support from master teachers and incentives that motivate students to put in the extra effort to master the rigorous material. 

This initiative will be in place for the next two years at Apollo and Daviess County High Schools. 

Aside from the college credit that is earned by a qualifying score of 3, 4 or 5 on an AP exam, this initiative will also earn a student $100 for every qualifying score on an AP math, science or English exam. In addition, the DCPS district also provides reimbursement of the exam fee to students who earn qualifying scores on 3, 4 or 5 exams. 

“Ultimately, our students will have an opportunity to graduate from Apollo and Daviess County high schools with several college credit hours, as well as some extra money in their pockets,” said Julie Clark, DCPS director of secondary schools. “This is an exciting opportunity for students and their parents, and supports our overall goal of preparing students to succeed for life.” 

Parents who want more information may visit the Apollo or DCHS websites for more detailed information about AdvanceKentucky, or may call the high school guidance departments