Los Alamos High School students Siri Khalsa and Andy Enriquez hold the banner declaring Los Alamos Public Schools as the 2023 AP Small District of the Year. Courtesy LAPS
State Senator Leo Jaramillo led LAHS students in a cheer during the assembly held earlier today to announce that Los Alamos Public Schools has been selected the AP Small District of the Year. Courtesy LAPS
Los Alamos Public Schools administration and staff members, Los Alamos High School administration, School Board members, and honored guests from Los Alamos County, UNM-LA, the New Mexico Public Education Department and College Board were in attendance at the assembly announcing Los Alamos Public Schools as the 2023 AP Small District of the Year. Courtesy LAPS
LAPS NEWS RELEASE
Los Alamos Public Schools has been named College Board Advanced Placement® District of the Year for being the national leader among small-sized school districts whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access.
Los Alamos Public Schools was one of more than 12,000 school districts across the U.S. and Canada whose schools achieved high placement on the annual AP School Honor Roll. From this list, three AP Districts of the Year―one for each category of district population size: small, medium, and large―were selected based on research-based criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.
Superintendent Jennifer Guy said, “I am grateful that College Board recognized the incredible work that our staff and students do every day. It is inspiring to hear students talk about how teachers at LAPS are making a difference in their lives. We are seeing a steady increase in the number of students who are taking AP courses that appeal to their interests. I am proud of all of our students. We will continue to work to provide engaging courses that help 100% of our students thrive.”
“I am so proud of the students and staff at Los Alamos High School and am honored to have their work recognized by College Board,” added Principal Renee Dunwoody. “Taking an AP class can be challenging and it is amazing how many of our students are willing to take on that challenge. Our teachers do a fantastic job of making the content accessible and engaging and it shows!”
“This award shows that Los Alamos Public Schools is challenging many students to achieve at the highest levels,” said Trevor Packer, head of the College Board AP Program. “LAPS schools are ensuring that all learners have greater access to earning college credit in a wide variety of AP subjects. Congratulations to all the educators and students whose dedication and hard work garnered this well-deserved recognition.”
Over the past year, Los Alamos Public Schools maintained 40% or more of the graduating cohort taking at least 1 AP Exam during high school, and simultaneously 25% or more of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least 1 AP Exam during high school.
Participating in AP coursework can lead to college savings for families. The typical student who scores a 3 or higher on two AP Exams can save, on average, $2,252 at a public four-year college and over $8,308 at a private institution.
While 2 out of 3 AP students earn some college credit, success in AP is measured by more than exam results. Research shows students who take AP courses and exams are more likely than their peers to attend college and graduate on time. Even AP Exam scores of 1 or 2 predict better college outcomes than academically similar college students who didn’t take an AP course and exam.
In 2023, more than 3,400 colleges and universities worldwide received AP scores for college credit, placement, or consideration in the admissions process. Many colleges and universities in the U.S. offer credit in one or more subjects for qualifying AP scores.
To learn more about AP, visit exploreap.org.
About Los Alamos Public Schools
Los Alamos Public Schools offers a well-rounded learning opportunity for students in PreK through 12th grade with a 97% graduation rate. The district serves 3,700 students, including 170 students from 33 different countries and pueblos speaking 25 different languages. LAPS offers a well-rounded education including fine arts, CTE, clubs and activities.
The high school curriculum is diversified, allowing students to develop an individualized rigorous four-year plan, including Advanced Placement and Dual Credit courses. Career and Technology options include automotive, culinary arts, building trades and business and marketing classes. Students who desire a different approach to education can apply to the School of Choice or the Los Alamos Early College & Career Academy programs.