Advanced Academics

Honors courses are offered to prepare students for the rigor of AP coursework. The curriculum is integrated from grade to grade, culminating in an opportunity to earn college credit after successfully completing an exam at the end of an AP course. Students have the opportunity to earn college credit by obtaining a designated score on the AP exam (determined by each individual college). Because the AP program is designed to prepare students for college-level work, the classes proceed at a faster pace. Knowledge and skills needed are more complex and at a higher-level of difficulty than those commonly required in regular classes. Homework is frequent and demanding. Most assigned reading and writing is completed outside of class, which may include weekends and holidays. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) and students are encouraged to review all course requirements before enrolling in honors or AP courses. Successful completion of each AP course requires approximately six hours of individual study time per week. 

Successful AP students are typically task-oriented, proficient readers who are able to set priorities with regard to time and responsibilities, and are independent workers who are self-motivated and organized. Students who are successful in honors courses will be prepared for the rigorous curriculum of AP coursework where they are expected to reason, analyze, and understand for themselves. Parental/Guardian support also plays a key role in the success of these students. Any student who is willing to commit the time and effort necessary to meet the rigorous requirements of this course is encouraged to enroll.

OKCPS is committed to achieving excellence in education by ensuring that all students receive a strong foundation in core curriculum courses by providing all students with equitable access. The AP program is offered to further enhance students’ educational opportunities and to provide students a variety of challenging course options that will prepare them for college and other post-secondary endeavors. Enrollment in honors or AP coursework is “inclusive,” meaning it is open to all students who have successfully completed the prerequisite courses, are committed to performing at the level required for success in the rigorous program, and willing to accept the time and learning requirements of a college-level and college-preparatory class. Additional information regarding the AP program may be obtained by contacting the AP coordinator, counselor, or the principal at the school.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP) is designed for students aged 16 to 19 and offers challenging, comprehensive coursework in the traditional disciplines. In addition, diploma candidates write a four thousand word extended research essay (EE) and complete 150 hours of creativity, activity, and service (CAS). The diploma also requires a Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class that examines the relationship between academic disciplines, investigates how one arrives at knowledge, and further develops reasoning skills. 

The IB program promotes organization, time management skills, a facility in oral and written communication, a commitment to community service, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, the proficiency in six rigorous courses (English, Foreign Language, Social Science, Science, Math and an elective) provides students an advantage in gaining admission to the college or university of their choice. In recognition of their efforts, students may receive advanced placement or college credit for each IB exam passed.

Although both IB and AP are designed to support college readiness, IB and AP classes tend to differ in teaching methodologies and testing. AP classes are more focused on rote learning and standardized tests. In contrast, IB classes and assessments tend to involve more research, writing, and hands-on evaluation. A key difference is the final exam. IB exams are designed for students to apply what they've learned in new scenarios, such as analyzing a case study, in an effort to test students’ ability to react to new information in a limited period of time.