At Jackson Prep, we believe that education is most powerful when it challenges students to think deeply, work diligently, and stretch beyond their comfort zones. One of the most effective ways to accomplish this is through the Advanced Placement (AP) program. These courses, designed and administered by the College Board, offer students the opportunity to engage with college-level material while still in high school. They not only prepare students for the academic rigor of higher education but also cultivate essential skills such as time management, critical thinking, and perseverance.
AP classes are about more than earning college credit. They encourage students to embrace curiosity, develop intellectual confidence, and explore subject areas in meaningful depth. Whether a student is passionate about history, science, languages, or the arts, AP courses invite them to take ownership of their learning and to set ambitious academic goals. For many, the challenge of an AP class becomes a springboard for future studies and career interests.
The results of this year’s AP program at Jackson Prep speak volumes about the dedication of both students and faculty. In 2025, 116 students sat for a total of 232 AP exams across 20 subject areas. These included core subjects such as English, mathematics, and science, as well as electives like studio art and world languages. Remarkably, 94% of these students earned a passing score, far exceeding national averages.
Such success is a testament not only to the students’ effort but also to the commitment of Prep’s teachers, who invest countless hours in preparing their classes. Teachers design lessons that balance the demands of the AP curriculum with opportunities for creativity and collaboration. They mentor students through rigorous coursework, practice exams, and review sessions, ensuring that each learner is equipped to succeed.
What may surprise some readers is how far-reaching the benefits of AP courses can be—even for students who don’t end up using their scores for college credit. College admissions officers often note that AP courses demonstrate a student’s willingness to take on challenges, regardless of the final exam outcome. For students, the experience itself becomes a testing ground for perseverance and resilience. Many alumni share that their first college courses felt less intimidating because they had already learned how to manage the workload, expectations, and independence demanded by AP classes.
Equally important is the supportive environment fostered by the school community. Parents, counselors, and administrators all play a role in encouraging students to step into these challenges with confidence. At Jackson Prep, the AP program is not viewed as an isolated set of courses but as an integral part of the broader mission. With 15 AP courses offered, our goal is to cultivate well-rounded, resilient young people prepared to lead and serve in an ever-changing world.
Looking ahead, Prep remains committed to expanding AP opportunities and encouraging students to pursue these valuable courses. The lessons learned extend well beyond test scores; they shape habits of discipline, resilience, and intellectual curiosity that last a lifetime. For Jackson Prep students, success in the AP program is not only about passing exams, but it is also about discovering what they are capable of and laying the groundwork for future achievement.
With Class of 2025 statistics like eight National Merit Finalists, six STAR Students, one Presidential Scholar, 46 seniors receiving a 30 or more on the ACT, $17.5 million in scholarships offered, and a 94% pass rate on the AP exams, it is evident that academic achievement is commended at Jackson Prep. To learn more about our curriculum and to discover if Jackson Prep is right for your student, visit us at jackonprep.net.
Mary Kelly Branning is director of academics at Jackson Preparatory School.
