Students at Mount Vernon High School have a variety of ways to earn college credit before graduation through the College Credit Plus (CCP) and Kenyon Academic Partnership (KAP) programs. These options include Kenyon and Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) courses taught at the high school, online and on-campus college classes, and other credit-earning pathways—all designed to give students a head start on higher education.
Unlike Advanced Placement (AP) classes, which follow a standardized national curriculum, CCP and KAP courses are based on individual college syllabi, making them more variable in structure and expectation. Students earn credit through the college offering the course—Kenyon College for KAP, and COTC for certain CCP offerings—and receive weighted GPA points on a 5.0 scale.
According to counselor Myrna Kennerly, AP courses tend to be more widely accepted by colleges due to their national consistency. While students in KAP classes can choose to take the AP exam, only about 1% opt to do so. KAP classes automatically grant Kenyon credit, while AP scores must meet specific thresholds—typically a 3 or higher—to earn college credit.
“The AP exam is not required for KAP students,” said KAP teacher Kristin Hofferberth. “Most are happy with the Kenyon credit they receive.” Hofferberth also noted that KAP Chemistry is equivalent to a full year of college general chemistry with lab, and students should expect 30–60 minutes of nightly homework.
Students also report gaining more than just credit from these classes. “Take the class because it is hard,” said sophomore Amanda Misarti. “The strategies you learn from KAP will grow you so much.” Skills like time management, academic writing, and discussion participation are frequently cited benefits.
COTC classes, such as Human Physiology taught by science teacher Farmer, also offer college credit and require students to be self-motivated. “If you’re considering a career in a health field, sign up,” said Farmer, though he noted some students enroll simply out of interest in the human body.
Success in CCP, KAP, or AP classes often depends on a student’s mindset. “There is a lot of new material people aren’t used to,” said Kennerly. “It’s important to give yourself grace.”
Advice from current students echoes that sentiment. “Pay attention… don’t procrastinate,” said Garrett O’Quin. “Stay on top of the research paper,” added Lucy Smith. Students emphasized the importance of discipline, participation, and not getting discouraged if the start is rough.
Whether students choose AP, KAP, or COTC classes, each path requires focus, responsibility, and a willingness to grow.
