South High Magnet & Advanced Programs

Students can choose 5 AP courses with at least 2 courses in the same content area and representation across at least 2 different content areas.  Students must score at least 3 or higher on the exams and achieve a C or higher in the courses.  This option ensures students can personalize their AP experience to align with their individual academic and career goals.  This option is available at all WCPS high schools.  

Requires 5 AP courses spanning specific content areas: languages, global perspectives, sciences or math.  Students must achieve a score of 3 or higher on each of the 5 exams and send their scores to a university outside the United States.  This option is particularly suited for students aiming for international higher education opportunities.   Students should consult with their counselor to determine if this option is available.

AP® Capstone Diploma Program at South Hagerstown High School 
This is an academic magnet program that focuses on building critical thinking, research, and communication skills. The program includes two core interdisciplinary courses – AP Seminar and AP Research – which promote critical and creative thinking, argumentation, and research skills. Both courses involve performance tasks, assessments, and the application of research methodology, complementing the other AP courses that students take.

In addition to AP Seminar and AP Research, students must complete at least four more AP courses, for a total of six. To earn the College Board’s AP Capstone Diploma, students must score a 3 or higher on all six exams. By completing the program, participants distinguish themselves to colleges and universities by actively practicing the real-world skills necessary for college and career.

REQUIRED COURSES:

• AP Seminar
• AP Research
• 4 additional AP courses

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:
Ms. Beth Shaffer
South Hagerstown High AVID Coordinator

To learn more, visit: AVID Website

The TRiO: Upward Bound Program is a year-round college-preparatory program made possible through a five-year U.S. Department of Education grant. HCC’s Upward Bound Program is intended to assist income eligible and/or first-generation college-bound high school students in successfully completing secondary education by preparing them academically and socially for enrollment and completion of higher education.

This is accomplished by providing participants with rigorous and nurturing academic courses, tutoring services, college-preparatory workshops, financial aid advising, career exploration, leadership opportunities, and cultural enrichment field trips.

HCC’s Upward Bound program serves students annually from North Hagerstown High School, South Hagerstown High School, Williamsport High School, and Hancock Middle Senior High School.

For more information, please visit the Upward Bound/HCC website.

Upward Bound Application for School Year 2025-2026: Apply Now

James Mankins - Upward Bound Manager

•  Email: jemankins@hagerstowncc.edu                                                                   Phone:240-500-2584

• Alex Goveo - Upward Bound Academic Advisor                      Email: agoveo@hagerstowncc.edu                                                                        Phone: 240-500-2713