AP United States
Government and Politics
Rutherford B. Hayes High School - Delaware, Ohio

"AP Gov is literally one of the best classes you could take. The information is useful to you and gives you a realistic expectation regarding politics in America. The assignments and workload is totally worth it considering the material. Also Mr. Haynes is a city council member so he could answer basically any question you have if you are confused." - Xavier Primel

"AP GOPO really helped me to get a clear understanding of our government's history and visualize it in a different perspective. This was one of the most memorable classes that I had in high school, and I will cherish it forever. Mr. Haynes did a fantastic job in helping students achieve a greater understanding of political history and government laws." -  Muhammed Arrib

"AP Government and Politics provides a wonderful opportunity to Hayes students to gain a foundational understanding of how the country works, creating better-informed voters who can serve their communities with their greater understanding of civics. Mr. Haynes provides fantastic and high-quality lectures throughout the entire class, ensuring students are set to succeed during the AP Exam and in later life. Such is the quality of the class that I both secured a 5 on the AP GOPO exam." - Brody Counts

"I would say that APGOP is one of the best classes a student can take. Not only does it cover significant and relevant topics, but it also offers something more valuable: how to be an informed citizen. It is also the perfect first AP class for someone to take. It is challenging, but like everything else in life, you will be rewarded if you do the work. It was one of my favorite classes at Hayes: all the activities and applied learning from the topics are unique to this class, and the material learned in this class translates to real life. Lastly, the skills learned will help with other AP or dual enrollment college classes and help a student feel what a college workload is like. I also hear the teacher is pretty good and a chill guy." - Robert Condo

"Social studies has never been one of my favorite subjects, because I always found it boring. That changed in AP U.S. Government and Politics. With all of the different interactive activities, games, and debates we had, it made the class and its content a lot more interesting. On the whole, it's truly not a difficult AP course, as long as you put effort into it and try your best on every assignment. It's a class that's easy to follow and isn't just listening to a boring lecture each and every day. It's engaging and gets students involved in what they're learning. By the end of the course, I didn't find myself bored to death and felt more interested in what I was learning. I highly recommend this class to incoming juniors, especially those that might be hesitant about taking AP courses. If you're unsure about AP, this is a great course to start with. It introduces students to the world of AP without being a grinding, hardcore class. Take AP GOPO!" - Claire Artemus

"AP GOPO is an amazing course that I completely recommend taking. As both a member of Youth and Government and the school’s current representative on the school board this class has been a great asset in my life. You get to learn so much about how the government you are a part of works and you have the chance to talk and debate through so many opinions. Also it is a great class for making friends as there are lots of fun discussions!” - Greta Walraven

"I felt that AP Gov was one of the most well paced classes at Hayes. The notes, lectures and tests felt very structured and you knew how much time you had to prepare as well as a chance to get all your questions answered before the assessment." - Owen Jester

"AP GOPO is an interesting class for you to take regardless of your future plans because a lot of its content actually applies to real life. I left AP GOPO as a more informed person, with a better knowledge of the inner workings of programs and institutions I use daily -- and often take for granted." - Kiki Chen

“I HIGHLY recommend taking AP GOPO. Even if you aren’t planning on pursuing a career in government it’s a great class to take to fully understand how our government operates. Also, don’t let the exam discourage you from taking the class because to be honest the exam isn’t too difficult and Mr. Haynes does a great job preparing you for it throughout the year.” - Kayla Jackson

“I’d say the best part about AP GOPO is how invested Mr. Haynes was regarding the coursework. He always encouraged class discussions and questions, which always helped cultivate a comfortable atmosphere!! If you are interested in the government or anything political, Mr. Haynes’ course allows you to learn through objectivity and helps to establish skills for note and quiz taking.” - Jules West

“AP GOPO was the first AP class that I took at Hayes. The class was able to set me up to achieve academically in advance classes I would take my senior year. AP GOPO guided me through the importance of not only retaining knowledge, but being able to apply the information we learn in class to real life scenarios. Along with the skills it equipped me for the future, it also taught me the importance of American Democracy and allowed a deeper look into the evolution of the American government. It was one of the most worthwhile classes I have taken at Hayes and played a huge part in preparing for my future.” - Mia Saksa

“I was lucky enough to be able to take AP GOPO, and I can say to any student who might be interested that it is a very great program. Throughout my life, I tended to not pay attention and focus during most of my classes, but I found that this class always kept me interested and intrigued. This was probably one of my favorite classes I have taken, and Mr. Haynes did a spectacular job at teaching it. 5/5 stars…” - Christian Smith

“AP GOPO was a fantastic first AP to take because it had a great balance of needing to learn content, and needing to learn skills such as writing and reading. Because of this, it prepares you well for any AP classes you take in the future because you have experience with an exam, as well as the pacing of the class.”  - Andrew Brook

“I tell people all the time that AP GOV was the best class I ever took, and they think I am crazy. I thought it was going to be hard, and boring because I did not like politics or care that much about the government, and I had never taken an AP class before. I decided to challenge myself anyway and take this class, and it was the best choice ever! I learned way more than just politics and government and had so much fun every day. Mr. Haynes is super helpful and cares so much about his class and students. He really loves and enjoys what he does. That made all the difference.” - Brooke Wright

“AP GOPO did a great job at helping me become more of an informed citizen. I learned a lot about how & why our government runs the way it does. You'll get to learn a lot of very important things about our government and gain plenty of new skills through this class, you also get to understand yourself a bit on a political level.” - Evan Richardson

“AP GOPO is undoubtedly one of the most relevant APs for highschoolers to take, especially for anyone who is going to pursue a career in anything after graduation. Nearly everyone’s future is affected by politics and that’s why it’s so important to be informed about what is happening in your career field and be an informed voter!” - Vicky Chen

“AP U.S Government & Politics taught me more about the government in 9 months than my whole life. The class was very well structured and Mr. Haynes does a great job at teaching the content, it is something he is passionate about and he always made sure we understood everything. There are many things about the government that we do not know but by taking AP GOPO, I felt more informed and less ignorant about politics. I would definitely take this class again as it is an opportunity to know more about such an important topic.” - Lizbeth Vanegas

"I used to not enjoy history class, I found it boring and confusing. However, I really enjoyed AP GOPO with Mr. Haynes. He made all the lessons very engaging! The book for AP GOPO is easy to read and interesting. As long as you complete the readings each night you will be prepared for class and be successful!  I received a 5 on the AP Exam. I was best prepared for the exam by asking questions when I needed help. I also made flash cards with all the vocabulary for every unit and I would memorize those. And we did several fun activities and games that related to the topics we were learning. My Haynes is always willing to help and answer questions! He is also willing to help after class if you have additional questions. I loved the class and I hope you do too!" -  Sammy West

"I absolutely loved this class! Perfect combination of challenging and engaging work. I was hesitant to join at first because I wasn’t really a “history person”, but an upperclassman really urged me and I’m so glad he did. I learned so much about how the government and its functions effect my life. It is so different from any other social studies or history class I’ve taken and it’s far more interesting. I would say if anyone is nervous of AP classes, definitely rethink. Mr.Haynes will make you feel very prepared for the test! I strongly recommend this class it’s so different than any other class!" - Allison Dean

"I enjoyed AP GOPO when I took it. It was an interesting course that gave me a better understanding of how the government worked. I would highly recommend taking it over the regular government course as the AP class dives deeper into the content. It’s a fun class taught by an incredible teacher that knows what he is talking about." - Nigel Bulwinkle

“I took AP GOPO originally because my siblings did and my older brother was impacted by it heavily. I had no expectations and thought it would be similar to my experience with APUSH but was pleasantly surprised. Within the first few months I learned enough about politics that I could discuss with my father and brothers and actually understand what they were saying. I don’t see myself as a future politician but GOPO made me more comfortable and way more educated on topics I am passionate about. Later in the year I even gained the confidence to speak at a school board meeting and my comments actually impacted the council and those attending. GOPO holds its own as more than just a history class, but a class that teaches conversation, awareness, and patience.” - Marta Bourget

“This class was amazing, it was challenging but it definitely taught me a lot. I loved the mix between notes lectures and interactive learning activities such as the open debates or mock congress. Overall I wouldn’t change a thing about the class and I would highly recommend it to anyone.” - Chase McMahon

“I would highly recommend AP GOPO to all juniors - not just those interested in politics. The course is full of interactive projects, games, and debates, and you will always be engaged. AP GOPO is about much more than government and civics - Mr. Haynes challenges his students to improve their writing skills, study habits, and critical thinking, and you will be surprised by how much you grow over the year!” - Eric Gitson

"AP GOPO was my first ever AP course. I was not sure what to expect at the time. A semester into the course I realized that AP classes were nothing like honors classes. I needed to dedicate time to work every single day because AP Gov was not just about memorizing vocabulary words, it was about applying your knowledge to the real world. I ended up asking Mr. Haynes for help because I was never taught good study skills or time management. Mr. Haynes spent his time after school numerous times helping me learn how to study and it ended up helping tremendously! By the end of the year, I loved the class and I was so glad I took the class. AP Gov helped me learn study skills that I continue to use to this day and to apply what I am learning to the real world and connect it to my life. It also helped me learn that it is perfectly okay to ask for help when needed." - Morgan Connar

"I enjoyed taking AP GOPO in my junior year because of the unique experience and insights the curriculum gave into our government system! It is a super-involved class, but the knowledge I gained helped me understand the world around me. I loved the interactive activities we did because it got me talking with my peers and working through problems in a way that would be done in Congress! I encourage all people who are even the slightest bit interested in  AP GOPO to take the class because you will not regret it!" - Robyn Gurujal

"AP GOPO was my favorite class during my junior year and enjoyed not only the class itself but the people I met in it. The class was also the main reason I'm contemplating going into law after I get my college degree. I met some of my closest friends and had some of my best classroom experiences in AP GOPO. I'm lucky to have Mr.Haynes as both my house leader and AP GOPO teacher, his tests and the way he teaches sets up students to succeed on the test in May. I would recommend the class to anyone who has a desire to learn about the government and is willing to put in the work to get the most out of their education. To this day I'm happy I decided to take the class and Mr. Haynes was a great teacher who set me up for success."  - Ben Dabe

"I thought that AP GOPO was a great course! I walked into the class knowing the bare minimum about how our government operated and I walked out knowing so much more than I thought I would ever know! I loved all the in-class activities that we got to do; my personal favorites were the mock trials! If you decide to take AP GOPO it will be a great decision!" - Cooper Heald

“I really enjoyed AP Government because it taught me critical thinking skills that can be applied to any subject! Along with that it solidified my interest in pursuing law in the future. My favorite activity of the year was when we used our knowledge of the Supreme Court to argue the Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women’s Health Organization abortion case.” - Mae Clark

“I am so glad that I took AP GOPO for multiple reasons. The class helped me to become more familiar with our government and the way it worked, which is super important for understanding politics and what politicians are saying during speeches or debates. AP GOPO also helped me figure out my own political viewpoints, which will help me when I can vote and be a part of the election process. This class was a good challenge, and Mr. Haynes does a great job of giving you the materials to make sure that you are ready for the AP Exam.” - Rylea Gist
                                                                         
"AP GoPo was both an informative and fun class! Mr. Haynes found ways to make activities enjoyable for every student and he set every student up for success on the AP exam. If you enjoy learning about real world topics and want to have an interactive class experience, AP Gov is the way to go!" - Meg Wolf

"Every day in AP GOPO class, I learned something new. Through fun activities and engaging discussions, I got a great understanding of the American government, the crazy politics surrounding it, and active citizenship. AP GOPO will change the way you think about the world. This class is worth taking, and not just for college credit! " - Erin Madden

"AP GOPO was definitely one of, if not the most, beneficial and influential class I’ve taken at Hayes. Learning about not only the origins of our government but how our government functions today. My entire perspective on government and politics changed for the better after taking the course, and perhaps most importantly the skills learned and applied in the class have helped me be able to respectfully converse in polarizing topics such as politics with anyone. On top of the evident course-specific benefits, the friendships made in the class and study skills that I learned in order to succeed both helped me earn college credit as well as prepare me for classes to come." - Kaden Gannon

"Mr. Haynes' AP GOPO class was one of my favorite classes I have taken during my time at Hayes. He crafted a curriculum that went along with the AP guidelines while also teaching in an engaging and interesting way that made me want to learn. Mr. Haynes goes out of his way to create fun activities to deepen students' understanding of the material and illustrate the big picture. When it comes time for the AP exam in May, he assures that every single one of his students is set up to be as successful as they could be. He creates a welcoming environment that encourages all students to learn. He truly cares about your success not only in the classroom but also as an individual by making personal connections with each student. Overall, this class helped me prepare for real world situations and expanded my political socialization. And as Mr. Haynes would say, AP GOPO is the best AP." - Claire Oakes

"AP GOPO with Mr. Haynes has been one of my favorite classes. Mr. Haynes is a knowledgeable, ecstatic teacher and is truly passionate about his teaching. His class has much to offer and has taught me many important things that will help me throughout my entire life. AP GOPO is a fun and exciting class; much of the information learned will be used nearly on a daily basis. Most importantly, Mr. Haynes deeply cares about each of his students and is always very positive. He will always try to help his students until they reach a good understanding. AP GOPO is an amazing class to enroll in. This class can be applied to many careers and is helpful in better understanding society. Overall, this course offers interesting content and incredible, inviting teaching." - Justin Borden

“I had Mr. Haynes previous to my junior year for freshmen Humanities, and was hoping I would get him for AP Government & Politics since I enjoyed his other class so much. Although it wasn’t necessarily what Mr. Haynes or his students could have hoped for due to Covid-19, and him being out for a few weeks to enjoy spending time with his newborn, he made it the best he could! He gave students every opportunity to learn the material, and he made sure we understood it so we could become better citizens. He is extremely passionate about the course, and did his best to make it fun for students (even if that meant giving us names of famous people and teachers so we could line up according to their political beliefs)! He encouraged us with music walking into class, asked about our weekends, and made sure we were beyond prepared for the AP exam. Overall, this class has strengthened my interest in politics, and has educated me on the many details of the U.S. government.” - Marissa Bledsoe

“I really enjoyed AP Government and Politics since it helped me develop an understanding of key concepts that influence our government, political system, and citizens’ connection to the government. AP GoPo helped me become more informed and aware as both a student and citizen, and it’s useful to be able to apply my knowledge of governmental and political processes to current events. AP GoPo does require time and effort when it comes to studying, but in-class instruction is also valuable for making connections and being able to develop a thorough understanding of the content through engaging activities. AP GoPo is a great opportunity to gain both college credit and knowledge of the fundamental aspects of government.”  - Amanda Stevens

“AP GOPO was extremely beneficial, essential, and insightful, as information is acquired at an age where you can appreciate such a complex system. A year in this class is challenging, always keeping you on your toes, and genuinely thrilling as students are assigned interactive projects. At the end of the year, I felt accomplished and empowered. I will always apply my knowledge to my life currently and in the future.” - Mary Grace Duffy

“AP GOPO is a great way to learn about how our government works while discovering your political beliefs at the same time. I probably learned more from this class than any other class.”  - Sam Bonofiglio

“AP Gov was a fun and challenging course. The hands-on lesson designs created a fun learning environment while still very educational. Through regularly assigned reading notes, I learned a lot about how to study and better time management as well.” - Kassidy Lefevre

“AP GOPO is a great opportunity to take as a high schooler. As a student you will learn exactly how the government works and what to do as a citizen. It is becoming increasingly more important to be an educated voter during this era and this class gives you the knowledge to make the crucial decision of who to vote for or how to vote on an issue. Additionally, it gives ways that you can change the country even if you can’t vote. We learned how to make bills, which was pretty exciting! My favorite thing about the course was getting to do hands-on activities. We got to act as members of judicial committees, pass or fail amendments and make our own bills. The way Mr. Haynes teaches the class makes learning fun, and I feel like if I had taken this in college it would’ve been lots more material taught in a less fun way. With that being said, the amount of knowledge I took away from this class helped me pass the exam. Although it was taught at a speed similar to a college course it was done in a way that helped me retain information. I think that this is the best and most useful AP class offered at Hayes because as citizens of this country voting is a privilege we have and in order to take this opportunity and use it to the best of our ability we need the background that this class gives.” - Mary Beth Zimmerman

“AP GOPO expanded my knowledge of our government and prepared me to be a well-informed voter. I learned how a bill gets passed through a mock-Congress, I learned the foundations of our government, and I learned how our laws are shaped by the courts. I enjoyed discussing and comparing US Supreme Court cases. AP GOPO was structured so that you would be successful on the exam. If I was given the opportunity, I would take it again.”  - Sydney Dunmire

“Mr. Haynes makes it enjoyable to learn about government even for those who didn’t know it was so much fun.”  - Jackson Weller

“AP GOPO was an eye opening experience in so many ways that I didn't expect. We learned about so many things that affect me today such as how elections work and provided insight as to our lawmaking process.  Mr. Haynes always made a point to create engaging discussion and activities while also going above and beyond to prepare the class for the spring AP exam. Anybody who wants a deeper dive into the structure and history behind our government should consider taking AP GOPO.” - Dominic Hupp

“Mr. Haynes makes the challenging concepts that are covered in the course engaging and easy to understand. The class gave me a greater understanding of not only the history behind our government, but also of the current events that directly impact me as a citizen. It made me aware of the influence I have in democracy as well as encouraged me to become actively involved in local government.”  - Emma Klemanski

"I really liked that Mr. Haynes found and put together unique opportunities for the class, whether it was a U.S. diplomat coming in to talk to us, or the class attending a televised debate between candidates, you truly learn and don't experience that in other classes which is why I enjoyed this class a ton!" - Oscar Radilla

"I have a love for history and politics, so I knew taking this class would be a no-brainer. What I didn't know is how fun it would be! Mr. Haynes does so much to make the content relevant to our current state of government, as well as truly being dedicated to preparing us for the AP test. He purposely challenges us, making his course harder than the actual test. On AP Test day, a traditionally stressful day, I knew that I was completely prepared. If you're looking for a class that will keep you informed on current issues in government, but also understand the complex issues in government, this class is for you."  - Bella Bosco

Taking AP GOPO was a very enriching experience for me; as a person who has been interested in the political process since the beginning of the 2016 election season, it has been wonderful to learn about the inner workings of our political parties, elections, and laws, and the reasons why our political climate is how it is....Mr. Haynes is one of the most involved and passionate teachers I have met...he truly cares about this subject. The class was never boring to me because of this, and I believe that I performed well because of this…”  - Logan Saito