By Kayla Phan
Staff Writer
Digital AP Exams
The College Board is transitioning 28 AP exams to a digital format starting in March 2025, discontinuing standardized paper testing. Students will take these exams on campus through the Bluebook digital testing application.
To prepare for this change, administrators are working with the TCUSD Technology Department to ensure that devices and networks are equipped to handle the AP exams and to resolve any potential obstacles relating to space, devices and network capacity.
Among the 28 exams, 16 will follow a fully digital format, requiring students to complete all sections within the Bluebook app. The remaining 12 will use a hybrid model, where students answer multiple-choice questions digitally and handwrite free-response answers in paper booklets.
This move is part of a broader trend in standardized testing, such as the SAT’s recent transition to a shorter, digital format. The College Board has not confirmed whether all standardized tests will eventually shift to a digital format.
“Any time something new is introduced, there can be apprehension,” Assistant Principal Nathan Slaymaker said. “While there have been concerns raised about the testing program and network capabilities, all concerns are being adequately addressed. TCHS is making every effort to make AP testing as seamless as possible. Students are accustomed to working online and should prepare in the same ways they always prepare for exams. The new testing format should not impact student performance or preparation.”
Oak Showcase
The class of 2029 visited TCHS on Feb. 26 to attend an assembly, tour the campus and explore a variety of student-run tables stationed at the Class Enrollment Offering Fair.
“I believe [the showcase] was well coordinated and the eighth graders not only got to get familiar with the campus, but learn about all the extracurriculars on campus as well,” senior Link Crew Commissioner Zachary Sower said. “I felt I could give them my knowledge on what I learned throughout my four years, while also letting them know things I wish I knew throughout high school. The energy was amazing and it felt like many people were on the path to getting involved.”
The eighth graders’ visit started with an assembly in the gym. ASB members Kyle Fung, Livia De Paula and Parker Thomas served as emcees and spoke during the assembly, welcoming the students and introducing the performances from all Pep groups, Brightside Side, Choreo, Colorguard and marching band.
“The main goal of the Oak Showcase was to welcome the eighth graders to TCHS and introduce them to some of the courses that they could take when they get here,” Activities Director aMichael Kidd said. “The eighth graders this year were a really great audience during the assembly.”
Following the assembly, students met with their assigned Link leaders in small groups. The Link leaders gave them a tour throughout the school and showed them where classrooms and buildings were located. They also visited the Class Enrollment Offering Fair, where students and staff promoted the clubs and electives available.