I know the rule of thumb is to take the most challenging courses available. However, what if the entire school is generally at a more advanced level, like a magnet STEM school with admission by exam only? Would admissions view regular classes there as on par with honors track or APs in an ordinary general high school?
DS’ school restricts access to AP classes because there are more people interested in them than they can accommodate. However, regular courses are typically above grade level (regular freshman English encompasses 10th grade curriculum, for example).Do we have to go nuts to try to get him into APs? There are non-AP classes that offer college credit (SUNY or Syracuse) and College Now courses available besides AP.
Talk to the GC…I am sure they have normal progressions for math, science, etc. They know what kids take and what schools they get into.
My DD went to a top 10 in the USA public magnet school and their School Profile said "All courses at HTHS are taught at the Honors level and grades are therefore not weighted or inflated. " There were limited APs but there were CC classes as well (as they were located on the campus of the CC).
Also keep in mind:
Stanford U says:
“We expect applicants to pursue a reasonably challenging curriculum, choosing courses from among the most demanding courses available at your school. We ask you to exercise good judgment and to consult with your counselor, teachers and parents as you construct a curriculum that is right for you. Our hope is that your curriculum will inspire you to develop your intellectual passions, not suffer from unnecessary stress. The students who thrive at Stanford are those who are genuinely excited about learning, not necessarily those who take every single AP or IB, Honors or Accelerated class just because it has that designation.”
“The College Board needs to say a similar thing about taking A.P. courses. We have data that taking up to five A.P. courses over the course of high school helps students complete college on time. But there is no evidence that excessively cramming your schedule with A.P. classes advances you. Let us say to students, ‘If you would like to take more than 5 A.P. courses because you love the class, do so, but not to get into college.’ https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/24/opinion/higher-education-double-major-extracurricular-activities.html