Our courses are aligned with the Illinois Learning standards to ensure that all students receive a vigorous grade level curriculum.  “B” level classes were dissolved and students are provided choices that are challenging and assesses grade level standards.  

Course standards, resources, and assessments are aligned among departments and courses. 

• Teachers meet in Professional Learning Communities to collaborate on this work.  Teachers work with colleagues and administrators to establish best practices, validate assessments, and plan for intervention for students who need support. 
• It is highly encouraged that students take four years of mathematics courses and earn at least a C or higher in Algebra II. Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are required for all students.  These expectations are higher than state requirements.
• Curriculum is revised through a cycle of continuous improvement. This cycle is monitored and governed by the Curriculum Coordinating Council, a committee of teachers and administrators who make decisions about curriculum developments in the district. 
• Data on student achievement in the curriculum is analyzed by race and income and supports are put in place to eliminate discrepancies.  
• All students are encouraged to enroll in Advanced Placement Courses.  

Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices

• Focuses on improving the learning capacity of diverse students who have been marginalized educationally. 
• Centers around the effective and cognitive aspects of teaching and learning 
• Concerns itself with building cognitive capacity and academic mindset by pushing back on dominant narratives of people of color 

Research shows that students who take rigorous coursework like AP® classes are 10-20 % more likely to graduate college by participating in an AP® course and 26-34% more likely to graduate if they pass the AP® exam with a 3-5. Students receiving a 3-5 on the AP® test may also earn college credit.  

Offerings:
BBCHS increased our AP offerings from 8 to 19 from 2012 – 2022.

Enrollment:
2015: 619 Enrollments & 340 Students
2023: 927 Enrollments & 561 Students

AP Enrollment by Race:
2.67% Asian
4.80% 2 or More
6.94% Black
13.70% Hispanic
71.89% White

Tests Taken:
2018 - 2021 average: 240 tests taken
2022: 575 tests taken

Equality and Excellence Threshold:
20.4% of graduating seniors have scores a 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam at any point during their high school career.