Real Impact stories spotlight the real difference people, programs and partnerships—across the system—make on the state’s economic, social and cultural well-being. For more, meet the VENT team.
A teachers’ aide motivated and inspired Megan Riordon when she was in high school.
“If not for her, I wouldn’t have graduated on time,” she said. “I hope can I change kids’ lives a fraction of the way she changed mine.”
Riordon does change lives teaching Advanced Placement (AP) history at Durand High School near Rockford. Riordon boosted her skills at the University of Illinois System’s first Advanced Placement Summer Institutes in 2023.
The U of I System again is offering APSIs to equip high school teachers with stronger programs to prepare students for college. Sign up no later than June 4 for the June 24-27 Springfield session and no later than June 24 for the July 15-18 Urbana session. The U of I System covers the cost of tuition, course materials, and more for teachers from districts where less than 20 percent of students take AP exams.
At the University of Illinois Springfield, Riordon connected with APSI instructor Paul Dickler—even when things got a little gross.
Examples that stick
“When I’m teaching about AP methods and content, it helps to share what I’ve done,” said Dickler, who taught AP history for more than 25 years.
During units about the Salem witch trials, he conducted a memorable pop quiz.
He placed a treat on each student’s desk, inviting them to dig in their “witch cake.” Those who chose not to partake aced the quiz. They knew from the recent reading assignment that the main ingredient—had the witch cake been real—is urine.
Riordon said one of the most beneficial parts of APSI focused on expectations for grading AP students’ exams. When students pass, they earn college credit, saving them and their families money.
“Paul had us read examples and score them with the rubric and then see the actual score,” Riordon said. “Now I know better what to look for.”
A good challenge
Riordon is upfront with students considering AP history. She makes sure they understand there will be a lot of reading and writing.
“I do tell them AP is for anybody. Some might find it more challenging than others, but putting in the work is worth it,” Riordon said.
Riordon’s rural high school offers 12 AP classes. Durand High School considers AP so important it conducts a class even if just one student signs up.
“AP courses open a whole new educational opportunity. They push our students to academic excellence and ensure they are ready for college,” said Matthew Klett, Durand principal. “APSI has put our teachers over the top, and our students are excelling at an above-average level.”
The U of I System partners with College Board to conduct APSIs. View and share additional information about summer sessions at UIS and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign via this printable handout.
“UIS values both the Advanced Placement classes students are able to take at high schools and the teachers who teach them,” said Vickie S. Cook, UIS vice chancellor for Enrollment & Retention Management. “The knowledge students bring to UIS after being in AP classes is so valuable to their overall success.”
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For more information about the U of I System APSI events, please email UIllinoisAPSI@uillinois.edu.
The University of Illinois System widening the doors of opportunity is just part of what makes us Altogether Extraordinary. To share a story idea, please message lmabry@uillinois.edu.
