Advanced Placement (AP) Comparative Government will be a brand-new Social Studies elective, beginning in the 25-26 school year. AP Comparative Government is focused on examining and comparing the political institutions and processes of six different countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia and the United Kingdom. This class offers insight on the similarities and differences in government and political systems around the world.
Mrs. Jennifer Mechling worked hard to get approval to add the course to our course options.
“If you’re a person who is interested in global events and nations around the world, this is a great class for you!” said Mechling.

(Tierra Adams)
“I’ve always been fascinated with learning about other countries, ” said junior Caitlynn Strader. “This provides me an opportunity to learn more about the governments from other places rather than always being in US-focused government classes.”
The class is only offered to juniors and seniors and you may take this course in addition to your standard social studies classes. AP Comparative Government is will award students college credit once they pass the AP exam which is usually taken in May.
If a student passes the AP exam at the end of the course, they will earn credit for a Political Science or Global Studies course in college – you should check the AP Equivalency charts from the colleges you are most interested in attending to see what it would tag as in their course catalogue.
Just like every other AP course, to join, you must speak with your counselor, sign the AP registration form before the deadline in August, and pay the fee to take your final AP exam.
“As the world has become more and more interconnected, I think it is imperative to understand the elements and perspectives of government outside of the United States,” said history teacher Zachary Johnson. “As global economies and foreign relations continue to evolve, our future generations should understand the elements of geopolitics that influence decision-making at a nation’s highest level.”
If you’re looking to try something new, ask your counselor about signing up for Comparative Government.