At the beginning of the 2023 school year, Chandler’s administration removed AP Physics C from course registration. Physics is a science course available for one of the three required science credits for graduation. The class studies matter, energy, space, and time. After deciding not enough students were enrolled, it was removed from the class registry, thus taking away the opportunity for AP Physics 1 students to expand their knowledge and elevate their education. Dr. Wang is the new AP Physics 1 teacher on campus this year. She stated most students have the potential to go further into Physics C, the second year of AP Physics. Wang explained why Physics is crucial: “It is applicable to the real world and helps further students in their STEM career.” Having upper-level classes lets students get ahead of schooling after high school. According to the College Board, 48,000 students took the Physics C test last year for college credit.

Physics wasn’t the only class to be removed due to lack of interest. Multivariable Calculus also fell victim to under-enrollment. One student, Andrew Phillips, was disappointed knowing classes he had planned to take were no longer available. Phillips, a current senior who plans on furthering his STEM career past high school, stated, “I didn’t feel supported in my academic adventures by the school.” At the beginning of last year, he thought he would enter his senior year enrolled in Physics C and 1st-hour Multivariable Calc. Fortunately, the third year of calculus was scheduled as a last-minute 7th hour after almost being fully taken away, though it only holds 4 people. The class takes place Monday and Thursday after school for 2 hours, giving Phillips a 7-period schedule. The canceling of higher-level courses has caused students to change their academic plans.