Regardless of how students score on the AP exam or whether they take the exam or not, schools are becoming aware that students completing AP courses are better off in their future academic careers. Even if these students take the course again in college, they are better prepared and more successful in course completion. Enrollment in an AP course is often a motivational factor as well, helping students set higher aspirations for themselves. Obviously, students must have the prerequisite coursework. However, capable students often are not encouraged to pursue the coursework that would provide opportunities they need.
Parents play a key role.
Avenues must be provided that help low income and minority parents to understand the value of advanced coursework. A schoolwide culture must be created that demands excellence from all students. Successful strategies have included peer coaching and examples from other schools. Schools should regularly bring in college faculty to talk with teachers and parents. AP summer workshops assist teachers in overcoming perceived barriers and provide a forum to dialogue on these issues.