A Parent's Guide to Choosing the Right Class Schedule

How to Choose Classes That Keep Options Open

It’s that time of year again. Course cards are coming home, scheduling meetings are happening, and suddenly it feels like every choice matters more than it should. I know this season can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to make the “right” decision without really knowing where your child will land in a few years.

If you are wondering why I almost always recommend going the “preparing for college” route, even when college is not the plan right now, go back and read Edition No. 2. The short version is this: choosing courses that keep doors open gives your child the most flexibility after high school. This is not about forcing a path. It is about protecting options.

Here’s how I think about course planning, depending on where your child is right now.

If Your Child Is in Middle School

Middle school does not feel high stakes, but some of the decisions made here quietly shape what is possible later. These are the three areas I always look at first.

Math placement

If you want the full explanation of why math matters so much in the college admissions process, read Edition No. 1. For now, here is the practical takeaway.

At a minimum, students should be on track to reach Algebra 1 by eighth grade. In most districts, Algebra 1 is the lowest level high school math course, even though it may be the highest option offered in middle school. If your child is not on that track, it does not mean anything is wrong, but it does mean options may be more limited later.

For students who are more advanced, some schools offer Geometry in eighth grade. If that option exists and is appropriate, completing Geometry by the end of eighth grade creates even more flexibility in high school.

Foreign language

Some schools allow students to begin their first year of a foreign language in seventh grade. These classes are often high school credit courses and can count toward the two years of the same foreign language most colleges require.

Even if college feels far away right now, having those credits completed early opens up options in high school. Students may be able to take a third year of language, which some colleges prefer, or use that time for electives that better match their interests.

Computers

If your child has the option to take a computer or coding class in middle school, I recommend it. AP Computer Science is often available to freshmen in high school, and students who have some exposure beforehand feel much more confident. Plus, no matter if you like it or not, computers are a part of our future.

This is not about forcing a tech path. It is about familiarity and comfort.

If Your Child Is in High School

High school course choices carry more weight, but the guiding principle stays the same. Rigor should increase and options should stay open.

Math path

Students should be on the most rigorous math path they can reasonably handle. Below are typical advanced progressions, assuming honors or advanced placement where available.

• Algebra 1 → Geometry Honors → Algebra 2 Honors → Pre-Calculus Honors

• Geometry Honors → Algebra 2 Honors → Pre-Calculus Honors or AP → AP Calculus AB

• Algebra 2 Honors → Pre-Calculus Honors or AP → AP Calculus AB → AP Calculus BC or AP Statistics for students targeting very selective colleges or STEM majors

A few important notes about math:

• If your child plans to play college sports, make sure their math classes are NCAA approved. Some courses labeled as Liberal Arts Math do not count as math credits for eligibility.

• College Algebra taken as dual enrollment can be a great option junior year alongside another math class. It refreshes algebra skills, which make up a large portion of the SAT and ACT, and supports students taking AP Calculus AB.

• AP Computer Science is a great class, and some high schools do count it as a math credit, however, most colleges do not recognize it as a math credit. It should not replace a traditional math course.

Foreign language

Most colleges require at least two years of the same foreign language. Many consider three years a plus, and some competitive schools expect closer to three and a half credits.

Stopping after one year can quietly limit options later.

Rigor over time

Rigor looks different for every student. What matters is that it increases each year.

That might look like:

• A gradual increase in rigor might look like one honors class freshman year, two honors classes sophomore year, three honors and one AP junior year, then two AP or other advanced courses senior year.

• A more accelerated path could include three honors and one AP freshman year, one honors and two AP sophomore year, three AP or dual enrollment courses junior year, and four to five AP or dual enrollment courses senior year. The exact mix of AP and dual enrollment can vary, but it is common for advanced students to take three to four advanced courses junior year and four to five senior year.

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The exact mix does not matter as much as the upward trend. Colleges want to see growth.

Core classes every year

Students should be enrolled in English, math, science, and social studies every year of high school. Do not just aim to meet minimum graduation requirements. That is different from staying competitive.

AP versus Dual Enrollment

This is one of the most frequently asked questions I get, so here is my honest take.

AP classes are typically taught by high school teachers who love the subject and put a lot of heart into it. Students tend to do best in AP classes they actually enjoy. There are a few APs that are commonly taken earlier, like AP Human Geography or AP Computer Science, but in general I encourage AP in subjects students like.

Dual enrollment works well for subjects students may not love as much but want guaranteed college credit for.

A few important things to understand:

• Taking an AP class does not guarantee college credit. It depends on the college and the exam score. Some schools only accept a 4 or 5. Some schools will accept a 3.

• Colleges care more about the grade earned in the AP class and the rigor than the AP exam score itself. You do not have to report AP scores unless they are passing.

• Dual enrollment credits usually transfer, but you must confirm that with the colleges on your list.

• Grades earned in dual enrollment classes become part of a student’s permanent college GPA, so students need to take them seriously.

• When it comes to AP classes, there are some students who take everything AP, often because they’re on a valedictorian track and chasing every extra point. That path works for some kids, but it’s not one I’d ever push. Colleges look at far more than just the number of AP classes on a transcript.

Build a four-year plan early

Some classes, especially math, are sequential. Others offer more flexibility than families realize. Creating a four-year plan early helps you see where there is room to adjust and where there is not. Use this template to help.

When planning, look at each year holistically. Consider extracurriculars, sports, jobs, and clubs. The goal is not to make it easy, but it should be realistic for your child. Challenging without overwhelming is the sweet spot.

Action to Take:

Sit down with your child and review their current course schedule and the progression options at their school. Look specifically at math placement, core classes, and how rigor increases year to year.

If your child is in high school, sketch out a full four-year plan now. Identify any bottlenecks early so you are not scrambling junior or senior year. If something is unclear, reach out to the school counselor and ask questions now, not later.

This is about clarity, not pressure.