2023 AP Review Book Drive
As the school year approaches the month of May, students across the country moan, groan, and persevere through the season of Advanced Placement exams. By the end of the month, thousands of AP subject textbooks and supplemental review books end up in the trash causing tons of paper waste.
Each review books cost anywhere from $10-$20 and textbooks may even reach well above $100. With many bright students taking on multiple of these difficult courses, the cost of having the proper learning and studying materials can be a serious financial question.
The Almond Blossom's focus is on the educational barriers within the complex issue of poverty and one of the many goals we have is to make education more equitable and accessible. We started our annual AP Review Book Drive in 2022. We collect books from students at a local high school and donate the materials to students at Title I schools in the greater Orlando.
These books contain practice problems, explanations, and content that is critical for students to do well on AP exams. The credit from these exams give students preparation for college classes as well as demonstrate to colleges their ability to thrive in academically rigorous courses. By eliminating the financial barrier to these tools, we give all students a chance at success on these exams.
Board members dropping off books at the school (left to right: Emily Meffe, Frances Yong, Andrew Chen, Philip Yong)
This year, Almond Blossom's second annual AP Review Book Drive saw almost a 400% increase in book donations from the year prior. We collected over 280 books as well as other study tools like Baron's flashcards and textbooks.
Through the hard work of the organization's volunteer staff and members, we were able to collect enough books to support three Title I schools in central Florida.
As a student-run organization, we do our best to support our peers inside and outside our classrooms.
Members and Board smiling after the successful collection of over 200 AP Books! (left to right: Kai Meffe, Merium Qureshi, Gigi Adamson, Meryl Canine, Elisa Davis, Frances Yong, Olive Nemeroff, Emily Meffe, Philip Yong, Andrew Chen, Eric Segrest)