One of the most stressful times for students in AP classes is the end of the year, when all of their knowledge is tested by a multitude of hour long tests. However, after all the exams are said and done there is still roughly two weeks of school left. Even though the AP class is technically over with the finished exam, administration still expects productivity to occur.

“Administration expects meaningful instruction and activities in the classroom after the culmination of AP testing,” assistant principal Bruce Coachman said. “We don’t expect it to necessarily be at the same level or content prior to the test however. Most teachers, most of the time, meet the expectations and have meaningful year end activities in their AP classes.”

Many teachers agree with administration and find it necessary to continue learning.

“In my class we are doing fun and engaging activities through the rest of the year,” AP U.S. History teacher Brian Erskine said. “For example we’re doing a jury trial simulation and we’re going to be doing some other simulations where people get to use the information they’ve learned throughout the year while having fun. I think I have a responsibility to keep my students doing social studies but in a low stress way.”

However, some teachers are giving their students a free period.

“Most of my students have been out doing different assignments for other classes and tests,” AP chemistry teacher Jason Taylor said. “It’s been like a study hall in my class almost. I have nothing else to teach them in the curriculum, we’ve completed the course in full.”

Many students greatly appreciate the relaxing environment some AP teachers are providing.
“I’m in Erskine’s and Taylor’s class,” junior Kerry Joiner said. “I like going to both of them right now. In Erskine’s class the jury and law simulations we’re doing are fun but I also enjoy the time Taylor is giving us to catch up on work. The classes throughout the year are hard and really stressful so the change is nice.”