Appleton West High School Plans for Next Year’s Curriculum

APPLETON, Wis. — In the latest edition of Hallway Voices, Amy Didreckson, the associate principal of curriculum and instruction at Appleton West High School, discussed the intricate planning involved in preparing coursework for the upcoming school year.

The planning process kicks off in the fall, as Didreckson explained. “In October or November, we start laying the groundwork for what new courses we’re going to offer next year and then start helping students understand those options,” she said.

As students begin to select their courses in December and January, Didreckson finds herself deeply involved in scheduling for the next academic year, a task that continues into April. She noted, “We have a ton of classes that we offer, but the classes that we choose to run are completely based upon what courses students request.” This responsiveness ensures that students’ interests shape the school’s curriculum.

A major component of Didreckson’s role this time of year also includes overseeing state testing. “We’re in the process of wrapping up makeups for ACT testing. We are about to start pre-ACT testing, which all of our freshmen and sophomores will undertake,” she shared, adding that Advanced Placement (AP) testing will fill the month of May.

Didreckson expressed her enthusiasm for the cyclical nature of the school year. “Every new school year feels like a fresh start. One of my favorite things…is seeing the growth in students from freshman through senior year. As they work their way through, they’re learning who they are as a person,” she reflected.

Reflecting on her work routine, Didreckson revealed, “I’m usually one of the first ones in the office. I work best in the morning; I get a lot done first thing, and my mind is clear.” Outside of her professional commitments, Didreckson’s family life is vibrant, raising four children engaged in various sports. “We spend a lot of our time on ball fields, golf courses, or hockey rinks,” she said.

Her dedication to education stems from her own experiences as a student at Appleton West, where influential teachers shaped her outlook on learning. “I will always remember Mr. Heller, my math teacher, who made math fun despite not being my strong suit,” she recalled. “He always had math jokes that he would work into every class period.”

Didreckson also mentioned mentorship figures from her youth, including her fifth-grade teacher Ms. Duvan and coach Mary Beth Nienhaus, who inspired her. “I look up to her for the philanthropy she does for our community,” added Didreckson.

For those interested in contributing to future editions of Hallway Voices or providing feedback, Rebecca Loroff invites readers to reach out via email.