Left: Boot Camp participants share a laugh. Right: Dennis Learning Center Sara Hairgrove discusses learning and motivation strategies for success.
More than 100 students from Westerville Central, North and South high schools participated in the first ever AP/IB Summer Boot Camp, held from August 7 - 9 at Westerville North. Facilitators from OSU’s Dennis Learning Center teamed up with Westerville teachers and administrators to provide support for pupils newly enrolled in an AP/IB course or those who wanted to enhance their study skills. Students had the opportunity to participate in workshops, team building activities, and teacher rap sessions about content specific areas.
Within the past two years, Westerville City Schools has seen a dramatic increase in the number of pupils taking Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses, with a significantly increased enrollment of the underrepresented student population. “The district is committed to supporting all who are willing to accept the challenge of AP/IB coursework,” said Cynthia DeVese, Coordinator, Minority Student Achievement. The goal of the AP/IB Boot Camp was to provide students with the studying, planning, and coping skills needed to manage the rigor of AP/IB courses they will take in the fall. Participants left the boot camp feeling more confident and eager to lead and create study groups with their peers.