With their dreams set on getting into their college of choice, 500 rising freshmen spent two days learning about Advanced Placement Human Geography.
Oftentimes, the academic rigor and course expectations of an AP class can be daunting for students and parents alike. To help ease anxieties, Advanced Studies sponsored two, two-day summer camps to introduce the APHG content, as well as teach reading, writing and study skills necessary for success in an AP course.
In addition to the academic focus, the camp also emphasized the importance of physical and emotional health. Donna Davis, Edgewater High School yoga instructor, taught the students how to do basic yoga stretches to help re-balance their bodies to alleviate stress. She also taught them how to do six moves while seated in their desks. She encouraged them to do these exercises throughout the day to maintain intellectual focus.
“Doing yoga was amazing. It was a way to connect with my inner self and be one with myself,” said Manuel Lemus Montoya, a rising freshman from Hunter’s Creek Middle School. “I’m glad I registered for this camp because it’s giving me background knowledge and will help me be prepared for the challenge of an AP course.”
Students attended session 1 (June 18-19) or session 2 (June 20-21) at Boone, Colonial Ninth Grade Center, East River or Ocoee, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for free.
In its vision to be the top producers of successful students in the nation, OCPS offers all 38 AP courses available. The open enrollment encourages all high school students to take these advanced courses to challenge themselves intellectually. Plus, students who receive a 3 or higher examination score earn college credit, which cuts tuition costs. In 2017, OCPS advanced placement students earned 48,000 college credit hours and saved an estimated $9.5 million in tuition expenses.