Anonymous wrote:My son was not in AAP, but was in advanced math, and currently has straight As in 8th grade, including in Honors Geometry.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Moved here from out of state a few years ago. Didn't know about AAP but one child got in because had taken whatever IQ test FCPS uses in previous state for similar program, but declined placement until 7th grade so wouldn't have to change schools again right after relocating. (no AAP center at assigned ES) I also have much younger children and didn't realize what a big deal AAP seems to be around here. Not interested in prepping. Never have. Just wondering if AAP is a deal breaker or not for my younger kids when they get to HS in terms of being successful/prepared for honors/AP courses should they choose/want to take them..

I heard only LLIV AAP kids get into to TJ

TJ requires Algebra 1 by 8th grade. Most of the eligible kids are kids who have had Advanced Math in ES, which is included in LIV but is also a separate class for non-LIV kids who are strong in math. Anyone can sign up for Math 7H in 7th grade, which is essentially pre-algebra, or algebra honors in 8th grade so technically Advanced Math is not necessary to get into TJ.

Prior to admissions changes for TJ 3 years ago, more advanced math classes, like geometry and algebra 2, were thought to be necessary to be accepted at TJ. Those classes required Advanced Math because you cannot take algebra in 7th grade without passing advanced on the Math 7 SOL, which only kids in advanced math and LIV took.

If a student enters TJ with only Algebra 1, they would certainly be in the bottom segment of the class, constantly trying to catch up with their peers entering with advanced math. More than half of the admitted class has at least Geometry credit, and many others enter having completed Algebra 2 in middle school or summer before. Even for those entering with Geometry credit, the math curriculum at TJ is fast-paced, and the vast majority of the class enrolls in one of the AP calculus courses by junior year, if not sooner. By enrolling in TJ, student gives up the option to graduate with just Algebra 2, an option they have at base school. AP Calculus enrollment is mandatory to graduate from TJ. While there is an equity push to recruit Algebra 1 students, it is unfair and unethical not to inform students and their parents about the challenges they would face tackling the rigorous math curriculum there and the constant mental stress to keep up with math grades.