Our school district essentially forces kids into AP classes over dual enrollment (which is an option) by giving a GPA boost to the AP courses, but not the dual enrollment courses. AP classes are scored out of a 6.0, Pre-AP out of a 5.0 and community college classes count as regular level classes 4.0.
I'd prefer dual enrollment classes as I think they give a more realistic college experience. But GPA is important for college admissions, especially in Texas where we have auto admit programs for the top 10%.
