BRANSON, MO (August 7, 2023) – At Branson High School, six students have earned the Advanced Placement Capstone Diploma™. Additionally, four students have earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate™ during the 2022-23 school year. The AP Capstone Diploma program helps students develop the critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation skills that are crucial for academic success.

“We are proud to recognize the achievements of students who participated in the AP Capstone Diploma™ program,” says Dr. Jack Harris, Branson High School Principal. “This is a meaningful college readiness program that will serve our students well after high school.”

To receive the AP Capstone Diploma, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research and on four additional AP Exams. To receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research.

Of the students who participated in the AP Capstone Diploma program at Branson High School:

• six were awarded the AP Capstone Diploma. They are: Cassandra Ellett (2023 graduate), Rabia Khan (current 12th grader, 2024 graduate), Andrew Makuch (2023 graduate), Connye Cruz-Morales (2023 graduate), Mohit Tailor (current 12th grader, 2024 graduate) and Brady Tanner (2023 graduate).
• four were awarded the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. They are: Morgan Carlson (current 12th grader, 2024 graduate), Kaleigh DeGarmo (current 12th grader, 2024 graduate), Ethan Gones (current 12th grader, 2024 graduate) and Rajan Raghani (current 12th grader, 2024 graduate).

Branson High School also had 30 AP Scholars, 11 AP Scholars with Distinction, and 12 AP Scholars with Honors.

“These students have enhanced the foundation for their future academic and professional careers by honing their ability to manage long-term projects, collaborate with teams, and deliver effective presentations on topics they’re passionate about,” says Sarah Loyd, Branson High School’s AP Coordinator.

The College Board Advanced Placement Program gives students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school. A 3 or higher on an AP Exam has multiple benefits for students, including earning college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on AP Exams, saving them time and money. Research shows AP students are better prepared for and more likely to enroll and remain in college, do well in classes, and earn their degrees on time. Each exam is developed by a committee of college and university faculty and AP teachers, ensuring that AP Exams align with their high standards.