1. Swift Creek Middle School
Bridge to AP

2. Research of College Graduation Rates Show
33% of students who attend college attain a Bachelor’s degree
59% of students who take at least 1 AP course attain a Bachelor’s degree (regardless of whether they passed the AP exam or not)
76% of students who take 2 or more AP courses attain a Bachelor’s degree (regardless of whether they passed the AP exam or not)
[Answers in the Tool Box: Academic Intensity, Attendance Patterns, and Bachelor's Degree Attainment (1999), Federal Department of Education]

3. What Counts in College Admissions
National Association of College Admissions
% citing importance

4. The Program
Pre-AP strategies are used to strengthen and align the curriculum across grade levels, and to increase the academic challenge for all students
A rigorous Pre-AP will equip a student with the tools to transition into a high school AP program and realize success immediately in those courses.
The main advantage of taking a Pre-AP/AP course is better preparation for college.
It has been shown that students master in-depth content at the college level more easily after completing Pre-AP/AP courses in school. Students also acquire sophisticated academic skills and increased self-confidence in preparation for college.

5. Why AP?
Research shows AP offers an answer to the aspects contained in our core beliefs
Students are capable and will meet high expectations
Students are unique thus there must be flexibility in the curriculum to meet the needs
Quality teaching is #1
99% of our students feed into Tallahassee Lincoln as 9th graders

6. Program Intent:
The Swift Creek Bridge to AP Program is the only one of its kind in Leon County.
rigor in courses for students
opportunities for higher level courses
a seamless transition to a Advanced Placement Program at the high school level

7. Pre IB or Bridge Advanced International Baccalaureate Placement
Aligned with AP course descriptions generated by College Board. Developed with a concentration on building student capacity to understand rigorous content
Students individual needs and strengths are considered. Students can be assigned all four core AP classes and exceptions for individual strengths will be considered.
Students have the opportunity to earn up to 6 high school credits in the following areas: Algebra I, Geometry,
Earth Space Science, Biology I, Spanish I and II.
Accommodations can also be made for Virtual School.
International Baccalaureate
Curriculum designed and implemented based upon an international standard.
Academic courses are assigned in all four academic areas.
Three high school credit foreign languages (Spanish/French/Chinese)are offered at level I & II.
Students have an opportunity to earn up to 7 high school credits.
Other high school credits that are offered are: Algebra I, Geometry, Physical Science, Journalism I & II.

8. Admissions
The Bridge to AP Program is open to rising 6th graders zoned for Swift Creek who meet the admission criteria.
Test Scores
FCAT level 4 and above in Reading and Math
Work Habits
All E’s or S’s in work habits during 5th grade
Grades
A 3.0 average in the four core areas during 5th grade
Sixth Grade Math Prognosis Score (Cut Score TBD)
Teacher Recommendation

9. The Admission Process? We are currently in the process of preparing
for the school year.
The following has already taken place:
4th grade test scores have been analyzed
Invitations to the January 29th Parent Night have been sent
Shadowing applications are being received
In the next few months:
After the 3rd nine weeks -Report cards will be analyzed
April -Initial acceptance selections will be made
5th grade test scores will be reviewed
June- Final acceptance letters will be sent

10. Once Admitted a Student Must:
maintain an acceptable disciplinary record for all classes
maintain a 3.0 “B” Average in core classes.
If a student’s average falls below a cumulative 3.0 he/she will be on contract for the following semester.
If the GPA is not raised above a cumulative in the semester of the contract, he/she will be removed from the program.

11. A Successful Bridge Student
Has a genuine interest in academic excellence
Demonstrates excellent study skills and habits
Carefully considers time commitments
Asks questions and participates in class
Perseveres when faced with challenging material
Asks for assistance when needed
Plans and works ahead on long term projects

12. Making Wise Choices Parents
Is your child a self-motivated, organized, independent worker?
Does your child need and/or have support with
organizational and study skills on a daily basis?
How well does your child handle the rigors of a demanding
academic workload?
Are they realistic about performance expectations for themselves?
Is your child involved in many activities?
Is his/her interest in this field consistent and significant?
Will your child be able to complete any outside-of-class work assignments without having to give up other activities he/she truly enjoys?

13. Making Wise Choices Parents
The key is to find the right balance for your child when requesting Pre-AP classes…keeping him/her “challenged” but not “overwhelmed”.
Parents are key to helping us better understand where that balance might be for an individual student. We can provide you with information regarding the program, but it is up to you and your child to decide whether or not you wish to participate in the rigorous Bridge to AP Curriculum.
Your child’s input is essential.

14. 6th 7th 8th Social Studies English Math Science Electives
Language Arts 1 Advanced
Math Advanced
Life Science Advanced
World Cultures
Advanced
Required
Creative Writing/
Computers
Choice of
Band
Chorus
PE/Art
Language Arts 2 Advanced
Pre-Algebra or
Algebra 1 Honors-H.S. credit
Physical Science Advanced or
Earth/Space
Science Honors H.S. Credit
Civics
Spanish I
Band, Chorus, Art, Drama, Computer Applications, Yearbook
Required PE
Language Arts 3 Advanced
Algebra 1 Honors-H.S credit
Geometry Honors-H.S Credit
Earth/Space Honors H.S. Credit or Biology 1 Honors H.S. Credit
American History
And Careers Advanced
Spanish I & II, Band, Chorus, Teen Challenges, Drama, Art, Yearbook, Computer Applications
6th
7th
8th