As meetings with counselors to pick schedules and classes for next year draw closer, Shadow students have the choice to take Dual Credit English their senior year of high school. Dual Credit English is different from a regular high school English class, that’s because it’s not a high school class, it’s a college class that students can earn college credit for in high school. Divided into two semesters with English 101 and English 102, teacher Mrs. Smith describes the class as, “Writing logically in small steps for different situations that students will encounter for the rest of their lives.” The class is designed to prepare students for the types of writing they will encounter on a collegiate level.
Learning how to write clearly and effectively is essential in college and in the workforce in general. I try to break down different types of writing into easy to understand steps for the students and I really try to make each piece of writing applicable to things they will need and use in the future
— Mrs.Smith
All Dual Credit classes are beneficial to students because they offer college credits at a major discount. In the past, students only had to pay $25.00 a credit but this year, Shadow received two grants which fully waived all Dual Credit fees. Additionally unlike AP students don’t need to take a test at the end of the year to gain the credit, students only need to get a C or higher in the class.
Not only do students gain college credit, Mrs. Smith says another reason to join the class is, “I spend the entire first semester on things seniors already need to do like resumes, college entrance essays, college scholarships, and research based on which college or profession they are pursuing.”
Students of Dual Credit all have positive things to say about the class and Mrs.Smith. “My favorite thing about my English class are the diverse activities that we get to do, I feel like it’s one of the few classes that don’t feel repetitive and it’s a class that I’m always looking forward to,” says senior Alejandra Calderon-Vazquez.
Mrs. Smith is one of the most popular teachers at Shadow and for good reason. She is constantly mentioning her love for all her students and still keeps in touch with students from past years. By taking Dual Credit English students are not only learning important material but are creating a connection with one of the best teachers at Shadow Ridge.
Students who are interested in this class should check out this slideshow!
