Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between being in the Honors Forum and just taking AP classes?

There are three key differences as identified below:

1. As part of the Honors Forum, students are joining a cohort of their classmates that are committing to academic rigor and excellence during their time at BHS. While this can certainly be accomplished without being in the Honors Forum, the history of this program clearly indicates that the students involved push themselves more than they likely would if they were not members of the program. Each year, several of our graduates remark that had they not been involved in the Honors Forum then they would have been less likely to take as many rigorous courses as they had during their last two years, when the most AP courses are open to them.

2. Honors Forum students also complete an independent Senior Project.  This experience enables them to follow their own interests in creating a project that is of their own design. Throughout the project, they regularly document and reflect on their progress to effectively assess their own strengths and weaknesses as they work.  As this is an independent project, students are forced to take responsibility for their own learning and completion of the project without constant teacher oversight. The requisite skills of initiative and self-management necessarily emerge as students begin their transition from high school to college. 

What special recognition do Honors Forum students receive?

Those who successfully complete the requirements attend a banquet held in their honor at the end of their Senior year where they receive an Honors Forum diploma.  At the official BHS graduation, they wear a unique tassel on their cap that is only designated for Honors Forum graduates and they receive distinction in the graduation program.

Where do Honors Forum students graduate in regard to class rank?

Over 98% of our graduates have graduated in the top 10% of their class and over 95% of the valedictorians and salutatorians have been Honors Forum graduates.

Do Honors Forum students have time to participate in extracurriculars in addition to completing their academic requirements?

Yes, of course!  Over 95% of our Honors Forum graduates are involved in one or more extracurricular activities including athletics, band, student government, theater, etc.  We pride ourselves on having well-rounded students. A key philosophy of the program is that while we are an academic program, we want to students to embrace the entire high school experience.

Can Honors Forum students participate in other programs at BHS?

Yes, we have had many graduates who are involved in a wide variety of programs at BHS, including culinary arts, health occupations, and engineering. You can view more of the options on the main BHS website.