<p>Adcoms know not all kids can fit all desired classes into their schedules. Not all hs offer perfect flexibility. Plenty of top STEM kids have to skip AP English to fit in an advanced math-sci class. And, I’d say 5 APs is rigorous. The entire app package has to be compelling- not just courses or stats. Where it would hurt to skip AP English is if you intend an English or lit major. If OP is STEM, then enviro makes sense, though, as noted, it’s lighter.</p>