AP classes are optional classes students can take that are more challenging and that can increase student GPA. However, how should we categorize them? Are they electives, or are they their own thing? 

AP classes are often strenuous classes requiring full concentrations, but labeling them as electives can be misleading. Nolan Drummand said, “Electives are supposed to be easy classes; AP classes are hard, strenuous classes so I would not consider them to be electives.” On the other hand, some like senior Guerin Tidwell had a different opinion. He said, “I feel like it can be taken as such, yes.” Electives are any optional classes.

AP classes can sometimes replace traditional required classes. If the student is lucky, when they pass the AP test, they can skip a college course. Pre-AP teacher Mrs. Murray said that AP classes are “a wonderful start for college. I think that they give students the foundation” for college.

According to my survey, one-third of those who take AP classes would not take them again, which means that most students benefitted from them. During registration, students should challenge themselves with AP courses and pursue their interests with elective courses.