<p>Do you know the class of Academic Decathlon? How is the work load? I heard the class is highly regarded by competitive college.</p>
<p>My son will be in 10th grade this fall. He will enroll in 6 classes (1 AP, 2 Honor) and plus cross country team. The class is offered for Fall semester at my son's school, I was wondering if he could handle this class and cross country at the same time (cross county practice is from 3:30 to 5:30 or 6:00 pm every day, plus some weekend work).</p>
<p>His workload will be high at junor or senior year by plan also. 6 class (4 AP) at 11th, 6 class(5AP, 1 honor) at 12th. I may try to persuade him to give up cross country for his junor or senior year. But ... hope he take my suggestion.</p>
<p>So Is it worth to take the class, and when is a good time to take the class, 10th grade, 11th grade, 12th grade considering the workload ?</p>
<p>We don’t offer the class at my high school but have had a team until this year. I do think it would be an excellent companion to your son’s course load if he wants to take it. The Aca Deca is also an EC that is impressive particularly if your S medals in competitions. </p>
<p>Typically there will be a theme and students will do an in depth study of the humanities and I believe sciences related to that subject area. If it is well taught it is excellent preparation for college level course work. Work load will depend on the teacher. </p>
<p>Is he able to repeat the class for credit? Usually a student is able to do that since new things are studied every year. You and your boy know more than anyone here about his work ethic, his study habits and his ability to handle stress so it is unlikely we could give you any sound advice about the rest of your post. I do recommend Academic Decathalon in theory but you will likely be better served by asking students who have taken the class at your high school. </p>
<p>However I would not encourage your S to give up cross country. Running relieves stress and continued commitment to a sport is a bright spot in a college app. Sophomore and Junior year tend to be the toughest but kids are resilient and handle it. In the midst of their chaotic schedules it is tempting for us parents to try to get them to give up the non-academics but honestly your son will likely do better in school while involved in his sport. And balancing these things teaches valuable time management skills.</p>