Magnet & Advanced Programs

Advanced Placement (AP®) courses offer highly motivated students the opportunity to take college-level classes in high school. AP^® programs are available at every high school and are designed to challenge students in various content areas and prepare them to take the Advanced Placement (AP®) Exams, which are administered by the College Board each May.

AP^® courses on a student’s transcript enhance college applications, and a qualifying score on an AP^® exam can mean that a student is eligible to receive college credit at a college or university.

AP^® offerings vary by school and are dependent upon course enrollment. Students should consult with their school counselors to understand which AP^® options and courses are available at their school, ensuring they can meet their educational objectives while fulfilling program requirements.

Click here for info on fees and other frequently asked questions! 

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a four-year, in-school academic support and college readiness program for motivated students in the academic middle who want to attend college and are willing to work hard. Offered at North Hagerstown, Smithsburg, and South Hagerstown High Schools, AVID helps students succeed in rigorous courses, including Honors and Advanced Placement, through twice-weekly tutoring with trained tutors.

The AVID Elective (grades 9–12) builds skills and habits for success in challenging coursework. Students:

• Gain self-confidence, develop study skills, and learn about financial aid and scholarships

• Research colleges that fit their academic, social, and financial needs

• Excel in honors and AP courses

• Build strong friendships and support systems

• Receive individualized college and career guidance

Parent involvement is essential. Parents sign a contract to support AVID requirements, encourage academic success, and attend AVID parent meetings.

Enrollment is application-based, and space is limited. Interested students and parents should contact their school’s AVID coordinator.

MORE INFO? CONTACT:
Mrs. Angela Stouffer
Smithsburg High AVID Co-Coordinator

Mr. Daryl Horst
Smithsburg High AVID Co-Coordinator

To learn more, visit: AVID Website

Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs are a key component of the high school education system, designed to prepare students for a diverse and modern economy. To learn more, please visit our CTE (Career & Technical Education) page to see what programs & pathways are available by high school. 

If you are interested in a program not offered in your school, you can apply for special permission to attend a school that does. Students who request special permission are required to provide their own transportation.

WCPS and Hagerstown Community College (HCC) work in a partnership to provide high-achieving high school students opportunities to earn college credit while in high school.  Interested students should contact their school counselors for more information. 

Programs include the following:

• Concurrent Enrollment: college classes that don't count as high school graduation requirements

• Dual Enrollment: college classes that also count as high school graduation requirements

• HCC Early College: students attend classes at HCC and can earn a High School Diploma and an Associate Degree at the same time

Click here to access the Early College Website.

Honors courses are available and are designed to challenge students in several content areas and prepare them for enrollment in Advanced Placement (AP) coursework.  Placement is determined by ability, performance, and prior coursework.  

• SALT is a leadership program that promotes high academic achievement and instruction to help students become leaders within the school and community. 
• SALT is designed for students who want to engage in more rigorous classes and learn to become a leader in the school and community.