FAIRBORN — Fifty Fairborn High School students and graduates who scored certain outcomes on AP exams received checks Thursday for doing so during a ceremony held by the school that was meant to recognize its involvement within the National Math and Science Initiatives Teacher Training and Incentive Program.
FHS leaders said NMSI provides teacher training, supplies, student rewards and Saturday study sessions for certain topics. The Boeing Corporation gave a three-year $300,000 grant to the district, which ended last year, but continued its support by providing a two-year $60,000 grant, which is what funded the students checks. Collectively, students took home $8,300 for their scores on the AP exams.
“I think today is a day where we show that every one of our students has the potential to achieve more than they believe they can,” AP Literature and Composition Teacher Ann Beeman said. “I can’t be more proud of them.”
FHS offers 10 AP courses, including biology, chemistry, environmental science, physics, statistics, calculus, language and composition as well as literature and composition. These classes offer an accompanying AP exam that are scored on a one-through-five scale, with five being the highest score possible; students who scored a three or better were awarded $100 checks for each qualifying result.
“I’m terrifically proud of them,” Superintendent Terry Riley said. “This is why you grow up to be a superintendent — this is a highlight of the job. There are many challenges that come with it, but this is why we do what we do. I’m proud and thrilled to be here.”
Since becoming involved in the NMSI program four years ago, FHS has seen a 93 percent increase in scores in comparison to the school participating the in the program. More than 200 students currently take AP classes, whereas less than 100 participated four years ago, according to the school.
“It’s outstanding the way our staff and students worked together on this program,” FHS Principal Gene Lolli said. “The dedication that they have committed to Fairborn High School and the National Math and Science Initiative has been huge.”