AP Physics students have expressed concerns and have been complaining for some time about the learning environment and instructional effectiveness in AP Physics Mechanics, and many believe improvements should be made for future classes.

Ms. Czap is a respected teacher at Winston Churchill High School, and students recognize the effort and time she puts into teaching. However, a significant number of AP Physics students feel that the teaching style used in the class makes it difficult to fully understand physics concepts and prepare effectively for assessments and the AP exam, and their academic performance is affected by the way she teaches her class.

Several students have shared that they often leave class confused after new lessons and rely heavily on self-studying outside of school in order to understand the material. Hardworking students also feel uncomfortable asking questions in class because they worry about receiving negative responses when they are confused about difficult topics. One student was yelled at after asking a question because Ms. Czap told her she should have already known the topic. 

In addition, students have raised concerns about inconsistent explanations of material and a lack of organized instructional resources. As a result, many students feel that they are not receiving the level of support expected in a college-level AP course.

At the same time, students who have worked with Mr. Lee consistently describe his teaching as clear, supportive, organized, and highly effective in helping students understand physics concepts. Many students who switched into his class reported improved understanding, higher confidence, and stronger academic performance. He provides in depth reasoning and demonstrates good listening skills towards his students. He tries his hardest to make his students into the best versions of themselves and to make them enjoy learning physics.

A growing number of AP Physics 1 students have also stated that they are hesitant to continue into AP Physics Mechanics because of concerns about the current teaching experience. This also may discourage many students from pursuing advanced STEM courses in the future, and it could prevent people from forming an interest in physics.

This petition is not intended to disrespect or attack any teacher. Rather, it is meant to express student concerns about the AP Physics Mechanics program and advocate for instructional changes that better support student learning and success.

A solution to this issue could be switching Mr. Lee to teach the AP Physics Mechanics class and Ms. Czap to teach Honors Physics. Because AP Physics Mechanics is an especially rigorous, fast-paced, and conceptually challenging course, many students feel they would benefit from Mr. Lee’s teaching style and level of support in that environment.

Please sign this petition if you believe students deserve the strongest possible support and instruction in AP Physics Mechanics.