Isn’t high school supposed to be a place where you can explore your options? Isn’t that the point? You’re supposed to take the classes that interest you. You should know your strengths, weaknesses, and interests before you leave for college. However, Ross High School does not do a good job of promoting this idea. The block schedule restricts the students of Ross High School in many ways. Sadly, you are only able to take a small number of classes each year. These classes include your core classes, which fill up most of your schedule, and required classes. That only leaves a small amount of room for you to pick your electives.

            Ross High School gives each student a special formula. This formula tells students which classes they need to take in order to be 1^st or 2^nd in their class. Yes, I understand that you need to take certain classes in order to be in class rank; however, some people have talents that include both core classes and fine arts. Class rank punishes those who are talented in fine arts.

            I used to be obsessed with class rank, I lived and breathed it for my freshman year and most of my sophomore year. I was determined to become either valedictorian or salutatorian to finish off my senior year. However, halfway through sophomore year I got a nice slap in the face. As I was trying to figure out my schedule for my junior year I was faced with two options. The first, take all classes that I needed to take in order to be valedictorian. The second option; take the classes that interest me. After a few weeks of mulling the question over in my mind, I chose the second option, the better one for me. I am now looking forward to taking three art classes next year and hopefully AP art my senior year.           

             This may not affect everyone; however, for those people who it does affect, it creates a problem. If you are faced with the same options that I was, I hope you choose the best schedule for you. Not the same schedule that your brother or sister had. Not what your parents think you should take. Unless that is truly what you wish to do. I know a lot of people who have given up their truly amazing talents just so they can become something that most people won’t even remember when they grow up.                     

            Ross, as of now, does not count AP Art as an AP class for class rank. Not only that, but they do not count your second AP science. This makes no sense.  I understand that principal Brian Martin is looking to acquire another class ranking system. Changing AP classes to a semester class instead of a full year class will help open up students’ schedules.  Many of us appreciate these attempts to make class rank fairer. However, there is always a downside. Semester AP classes stress students out. Semester classes mean the same amount of material covered in a shorter time period. AP classes are hard enough as it is, but semester classes call for a whole other level of insanity.           

            In no way am I trying to talk anyone out of taking AP classes. They are wonderful and very prestigious. However, what I am trying to say is don’t limit yourself. Try everything that you possibly can so you can find what you love to do. Do something you love and are passionate about and run with it.