Diverse Pathways: High School Students Navigate Different Routes to Success

High school students across Spokane are charting diverse paths towards academic success, with institutions like Spokane Community College and North Central High School offering a range of options for students to excel in their education.

Started in 1952, the Advanced Placement (AP) program, administered by The College Board, provides students with an opportunity to earn college credits by taking rigorous exams in high school. At North Central High School, a strong emphasis is placed on providing a wide array of AP classes to prepare students for higher education.

While AP classes are a popular choice for many, smaller schools often face challenges in offering these courses due to financial constraints. For such schools, dual enrollment programs with community colleges like Spokane Community College can provide a similar opportunity for students to earn college credits.

Aside from AP, students at North Central High School also have the option to pursue Running Start at colleges such as Eastern Washington University. Running Start allows students to take college-level classes without the pressure of standardized exams, offering a different approach to earning college credit.

On the other hand, Saint George’s School stands out as the only institution in Spokane offering a full International Baccalaureate (IB) program. IB students undergo intensive examinations at the end of their courses, with an emphasis on holistic learning and preparation for post-secondary education.

Meanwhile, the Northeastern Washington Tech Skills Center provides hands-on career training for high school students, offering courses in fields like cosmetology and welding. Students have the opportunity to earn industry certifications and dual credits while preparing for their future careers.

As students navigate these different pathways, the importance of individual choice and exploration is emphasized by educators at these institutions. Whether it’s through AP, Running Start, IB, or career-focused programs like those at the Northeastern Washington Tech Skills Center, students are encouraged to carve their unique paths towards success.