The English department of Windsor Locks High School believes students must develop the habits of scholarship essential to reading and writing for authentic purposes. For this reason, we incorporate both choice and assigned texts. Current research indicates that students need to engage in independent reading and writing in order to become better critical readers and writers. We also believe that reading core texts allows students to develop their critical thinking and encourages sound decision-making practices through reading, writing, and discussing the ideas in the texts.

We encourage all students to work toward placement in the honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and the University of Connecticut’s Early College Experience (ECE). Continuation in honors English beyond 9th grade is based upon several factors. Has the student consistently demonstrated a work ethic that enables the student to further develop the skills necessary to master the Language Arts standards? Does the student continue to develop as an astute reader and a writer? The student’s placement should also be supported by the recommendation of the English teacher.

All other students will be placed in the Academic English classes, ensuring that by the end of 12th grade, Windsor Locks students will meet the literacy demands of the 21st century with proficiency and confidence. Placement in either honors or academic English classes will provide all students the opportunity to pursue post-secondary education.  Placement in AP Seminar as a sophomore, AP English Language and Composition as a junior or senior, AP English Literature and Composition as a senior, or the University of Connecticut’s Early College Experience classes will be based upon recommendation of an English teacher and permission of the instructor.