Selective Achievers: When It's OK to Not Take That Extra AP Course

By Paula Olszewski-Kubilius, Director, Center for Talent Development Parents often have questions about charting an appropriate educational path for their gifted child. A recent article from Psychology Today offers one approach for parents to consider that differs from the idea of taking as many advanced courses in as many subject areas as possible. It takes into account a student's passion and particular talents: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/gifted-ed-guru/201201/all-ap-not-me-why-gifted-students-shouldnt-take-the-highest-level-classes I allowed my daughter to opt out of  AP English her senior year--to drop down one level--so she could invest in her art classes as she prepared her art portfolio for college admissions. I think students and parents have to make choices about how students invest their time and energy. I am more in favor of this approach when a student shows a persistent interest and passion in an area--e.g. has been taking art classes and is invested in an art career--than a student who wants to opt out because of a new found interest or to do something they have not been studying seriously for a while. The bigger issue is whether high schools allow students to specialize early--to take more classes and extra-curricular activities in areas of interest and passion--rather than opt for well- roundedness and being good at everything--being generalists. Also, there is the question of whether or not high schools allow kids to have more electives--so as to dabble in more subjects. It is great if high schools allow kids who have passions and demonstrate consistent interest and achievement in an area to specialize. Also, it benefits other kids who do not have well identified interests and passions to take more electives--to enrich their school programs with options and opportunities. It must be said that this drive to take all advanced classes is fueled by colleges and universities who stress grade point averages across all subjects and class rank for admissions and are impressed by the number of AP classes prospects take. Students end up feeling like they have to play this game for college admissions, and this is a consideration in making course choices.  There are downsides to being selective --loss of placement at prestigious, selective schools,  and the potential loss of  certain scholarships. I do not think that all gifted kids are naturally driven to pursue the highest levels of study in all areas as this author suggests. Some are, but many are selective achievers--striving only in areas they like or are especially interested in. There is a new article in the Journal of Advanced Academics on selective achievers and if they can be distinguished from under-achievers on certain characteristics (they could not). Whatever the decision, it should be the right one for your child. So, tell us in the comment section: Has your child had to choose between pursuing a passion and tackling extra challenging coursework? How did you handle it?