Waco ISD News

Waco, TX (September 6, 2024) -- Historically, only 10 percent of high school students in the nation earn the designation of AP Scholar each year from the College Board in recognition of high achievement on college-level Advanced Placement exams. In the 2023-2024 school year, 33 Waco ISD high school students earned the prestigious honor.

The AP program offers students the opportunity to take college-level courses while still in high school and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both, for their successful performance on the AP exams.

The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on the number of year-long courses and exams or their equivalent semester-long courses and exams.

“We’re proud of our students who challenge themselves by taking AP courses and exams,” Superintendent Dr. Susan Kincannon said. “We’re also proud of our AP teachers whose dedication and commitment to these students has led to the highest number of AP scholar awards we have had.”

Nine students received the AP Scholar with Distinction award, including Waco High School senior Anabeth Carlson, for earning an average of 3.5 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.   

“On my first test (as a sophomore), I struggled. But, I studied hard for them and my teachers really provided me with support. That combination helped me to excel,” said Carlson, who earned AP Scholar status last year. “I aim to be successful later in life. Having this base of advanced placement courses in high school will help me in college because of their rigor.”

Six students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. 

University High School senior Osmar Cazares Guillen began taking AP classes his freshman year and was fully immersed in the AP program in his junior year. He earned AP Scholar with Honors status, qualifying in four classes including AP Human Geography, AP Chemistry, AP Statistics, and AP African American Studies.

“The AP tests were challenging. But with practice and preparation, it became significantly easier,” Guillen said. “AP classes help me prepare for the rigor of college coursework, teaching me the importance of consistent effort, effective study habits, and time management. Taking AP classes has also helped me become proficient and excel in introductory-level college courses, giving me a strong foundation for my future academic endeavors.”

In addition, 18 students qualified for the AP Scholar award by completing three or more AP exams with grades of 3 or higher.

The AP Scholar designation appears on AP score reports students send to colleges and universities. Plus, students may list the award on college applications and resumes to give them an edge over competing applicants.