The APEX Program at WJ is considered one of the most prestigious academic programs offered by the school. It was created to provide students with a tight-knit, accessible community of students who regularly participate in the highest-level courses offered in high school. So why do some APEX students feel that it’s not worth it?

The biggest complaint with APEX is the ratio of work to benefit that comes with the program. Because APEX is mainly a WJ-centric program, it has little recognition in the college admissions process. This doesn’t necessarily mean a student won’t benefit from it. An explanation of what the program is and why it’s considered an ‘accomplishment’ to graduate from it is provided on every student’s transcript. However, the limited recognition of the program limits its impact on college application processes nonetheless.

Then there’s the disadvantage of taking more difficult classes with no weighted GPA benefit. As some of us have surely learned, taking a more rigorous course and doing poorly in it is more harmful to your GPA compared to taking an easier course and excelling in it. An APEX-level course is weighted the same as an honors-level course, but depending on the subject it may be more or less difficult than an actual AP class.

Another concern with the program was the rumors circulating the dismemberment of the APEX Biology course. However, APEX Reach Program Director Nathan Schwartz reaffirmed that it was just a rumor. Contrary to belief, the program was altered. With the addition of the MISA test to the school-wide science curriculum, all science courses; not just APEX-Biology, have shifted to focusing instruction on helping students excel on MISA come test day.

It’s important to remember that APEX is not the same program it was when it was established at WJ in 1996. With the student body seemingly multiplying in size every year, it’s no mystery that APEX Reach leaders have had to make some changes. However, to understand how the program has changed, one needs to understand how it started.

When the APEX Reach program was first introduced, WJ had a graduating class of about 200 students. Nowadays, the school is packed to the brim with over 3000 students, which can take a serious toll on extracurriculars; APEX being no exception.

The rigorous course load does have its benefits, though. Those who successfully complete the program and qualify according to the College Board parameters would be a College Board AP Distinguished Scholar, which would also show up on any AP scores you send to colleges.

APEX may be a positive or negative experience depending on where you stand, and student opinions vary. APEX may not be the same program as advertised, but it still has some benefits as compared to honors or AP courses. The decision on whether APEX in general is worth the work is up to you.