Miller News
October 26, 2025
Dear SHS Families,
Starting this year, students must complete all graduation requirements to participate in graduation exercises, in alignment with Board Policy IKFB. You can review the policy here, for more information. In the past, students with fewer than one credit deficiency could still walk, but that’s no longer the case. This change reinforces the importance of staying on track academically throughout high school.
Due to funding reductions, after-school support and credit recovery opportunities will be limited this year. With that in mind, we strongly encourage students to make staying on track for graduation a priority by:
Focusing on coming to class (attendance), participating in class, completing assignments and preparing for assessments so they are ready on test days.
Take advantage of SHARP Time during Advisory (Wednesdays and Thursdays) to get extra support in classes, when needed.
If you have questions or are unsure of your graduation status, please contact your counselor as soon as possible.
Thank you for your commitment to staying on track so you can meet graduation requirements and make the most of your high school experience!
Sincerely,
Principal da Silva
Why you should take the AP Exams, and why it matters NOW!
At Springfield High, you have access to one of the most powerful tools in your academic journey: AP (Advanced Placement) exams. Whether you’re aiming for college credit, a more competitive college application, or simply challenging yourself, taking AP exams is a smart move.
What the Research Shows
College and degree outcomes improve.
Students who take both an AP course and the corresponding exam are more likely to enroll in four-year colleges and complete a degree on time (College Board).Even one AP exam makes a difference.
Research shows the greatest gains occur when students move from zero to one AP exam, and from one to two, with diminishing returns after about five (Beard et al.).Courses alone aren’t enough — you must take the exam.
A national study found that students who completed an AP course but did not take the exam did not achieve the same college outcomes as those who did (Hargrove, Godin, and Dodd).AP exams help demonstrate readiness.
Colleges increasingly view AP exams as consistent indicators of academic rigor and college readiness, especially as grading practices vary among schools (Applerouth).
Why It’s a Smart Decision
College Credit & Cost Savings: Many colleges award credit for scores of 3 or higher, saving students time and tuition (College Board).
Stronger College Applications: Admissions officers value students who challenge themselves academically (Applerouth).
Skill Development: AP coursework strengthens analysis, critical thinking, and research abilities that benefit students in all academic settings (Holmes et al.).
What You Need to Know & Do Right Now
First Deposit Due: The first AP Exam deposit is due Friday, November 7.
Talk with Your Teacher: Let your AP teacher know your intention to take the exam this year.
Need Financial Help? If you need assistance covering the cost, reach out to your counselor or Assistant Principal Betsy Johnson — we’ll ensure cost isn’t a barrier.
Pay Online: You can make your payment easily using the QR code below:
Scan the QR code above to Pay for Your AP Exam:
http://or-springfield.intouchreceipting.com/
Final Thoughts
Taking an AP exam is an investment in your future. Even one exam can make a lasting difference in your college opportunities, confidence, and academic growth.
Mark November 7 on your calendar, talk to your teacher, and make your plan today — your future self will thank you.
(Email Betsy Johnson for Works Cited)
