STEM

While in this community, you can expect to learn how to:

• Use a 3-D printer

• Utilize Vex Robotics equipment

• Start and end a project

• Build with your imagination

• Work in a real world environment

• Work in a real world environment

• Establish career internships

• Program computers and circuits

• Explore real world problems via Project Based Learning

Benefits: Hands-on classes that benefit your career in engineering (electrical, aerospace, mechanical, chemical, civil) computer assisted drafting, architect, astronaut, airline pilot, and geologist.

Career Certifications and Endorsements that would usually cost hundreds of dollars are provided for free.

PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT (Pre-AP) AND ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES

PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT

Pre-AP is defined as any course students take which leads to success:

• in an Advanced Placement course, and/or

• on an Advanced Placement exam, and/or

• in any course of study regardless of whether students attend a four-year university, a community college, a technical institute, or enter the workplace.

All Pre-AP courses offer the opportunity to

• provide students with the skills and strategies necessary to be independent successful learners.

• challenge the student's creative and analytical reading, thinking, presenting, and writing skills.

• align with a standard of performance as indicated by AP examinations.

• become lifelong learners who participate yearly in AP conferences and institutes.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

The purpose of College Board Advanced Placement (AP) courses is to prepare the students for college work and/or AP exams that provide students the opportunity to receive college credit. By earning a college's required grade on an AP Exam (usually a 3, 4, or 5), students may receive the equivalent of credit for a semester's or year's worth of coursework. This could also save the student (parent) the cost of tuition or books for that required course.

A Ball High School Advanced Placement course follows the curriculum developed by the College Board Advanced Placement Program. (A Ball High student enrolled in an AP course studies a standardized curriculum similar to other AP courses offered across the country.) A course designated as AP is therefore recognized nationally by high schools, colleges, and universities for the consistency of its curriculum.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES

• are more demanding than regular high school courses

• are recommended for highly motivated students.

• are different from the regular high school courses in that they are taught with college curricula and college-level materials. (The curriculum of an AP course is at an accelerated pace, and performance is assessed at the analysis and synthesis level).

• allow students the opportunity to engage in subjects at a greater depth than regular courses.

• give the students the background and preparation that will prove beneficial for student success when enrolled in college.