Hemlock Public School District is proud to announce a major expansion of Advanced Placement (AP) opportunities for the 2026–2027 school year, adding five or more new AP course offerings as part of the district’s continued commitment to high expectations, strong student pathways, and future-ready preparation.
Planned additions will include expanded options in high-demand, high-impact areas such as AP Physics and AP Calculus, along with additional offerings across core and elective disciplines. This growth is designed to increase academic options for students with a wide range of goals—college, career, military, or skilled trades—by providing more opportunities to grow in rigor, challenge, and confidence while still in high school.
“This is what it looks like to be a high-performing district that refuses to stand still,” said Board of Education President Matthew Wesener. “We want every student to have access to meaningful next-level opportunities. Expanding AP offerings is an investment in student ambition, and it reflects our belief that Hemlock students can compete and succeed anywhere.”
The district’s AP growth plan will focus on broadening course variety and access while ensuring the instructional support students need to thrive. This work includes program planning, staffing, student advising, and continued alignment with district priorities that strengthen academic excellence and postsecondary readiness.
“We are leveling up—again,” said Superintendent Dr. Don Killingbeck. “Our job is to widen the runway for students. Adding five or more AP courses is one more way we are pulling the sled a little harder and building a culture where challenge is normal, effort is celebrated, and opportunity is intentional. We want Hemlock students to leave us not just prepared—but confident.”
Students have also expressed strong enthusiasm for expanded access to rigorous coursework and greater choice in building personalized academic pathways.
“As someone who wants to push myself and earn college credit, this is huge,” said a Hemlock High School student. “Having more AP options—especially in classes like physics and calculus—means more students can find the right fit for what they want to study after graduation. It feels like Hemlock is really investing in our future.”
Another student added, “This is a big deal for us. More AP choices means more people can step up and actually find a class that fits what they’re good at and where they want to go. It shouldn’t feel like advanced opportunities are for just a few kids—if you’re ready to challenge yourself, you should have a path to do it right here at Hemlock.”
Hemlock will share additional details in the coming months, including the full list of new AP course additions, student enrollment guidance, and informational opportunities for families.
This initiative is one more example of the district’s ongoing promise to lead with purpose and build a K–12 experience that reflects the strength of its community and the potential of its students.