New course selection options are available to students next year including a social studies elective and the modification to the AP English format.

Starting next year, the AP English class is changing to a different format that separates the course into two separate classes. Along with this change, students will have the ability t the AP English class is changing to a different format that separates the course into two separate classes. o take a class that answers the question, “What is an American.” This class is third trimester only and will be taught by Jason Milczewski. This will be done to better coordinate with the AP tests.

Milczewski commented on the purpose behind teaching the class, “What is an American.”

“I want to accomplish the idea that you can look at any rich array of documents and extract a common theme [from them],” Milczewski said.

Specifically, the class will be covering what it means to be an American, including American character, freedom, equality and justice defined in the lives of Americans. It will also elaborate on how the attitude of being an American reflects how the United States solves problems. Milczewski discussed how this class will cover these topics by studying artwork, music, and political documents, rather than textbooks.

“One of the best ways to learn about culture and about who a [group of] people are is to look at what they have produced,” Milczewski said.

History department chair Jeff Fry further elaborated on the material that will be used in the course.

“It would allow students to study unconventionally by reading a lot of primary source documents,” Fry said.

Milczewski noted that he was inspired to start the class while at Ashland University. He further elaborated on what motivated him to start the class

“I took a similar class in college, and my interest has always been that when you read something for yourself and you do not do it through anyone else’s lens, it creates a lot richer of an educational experience,” Milczewski said.

When it comes to creating a new history based elective, Milczewski mentioned how this has been a goal of his for quite a while.

“I have been trying to get a floating elective for some time and this class appeals to the most diverse group of people,” Milczewski said.

Another change to next year will be the split of the AP English course. Current AP English Literature and Language teacher Alan Silvidi commented on the change.

“AP English Language is now becoming the eleventh grade honors class. AP English Literature will be the senior honors class,” Silvidi said.

These changes will go into effect next year with the junior class taking the AP English Language class, leaving the class of 2015 as the last class to take the current three trimester AP English course. Silvidi elaborated on the transition.

“Next year is the last year that [the class] will be combined for the seniors. The following year [the transition] will be in place fully,” Silvidi said.

The “What is an American” class will be offered third trimester next year. The transition for the AP English classes will also begin next year with the addition of the AP English Language class for juniors.