The HS I graduated from required kids had passed the pre-AP class prior to allowing them to register for the AP class, but a parent could request, in person, that they be permitted. This worked out for me, as I'd moved here from a state that didn't offer "pre-AP" classes, just honors. I was able, thanks to my step-mom, take all the AP classes I wanted (and got all A's, save for that blasted calculus class!)

I suppose it depends on the area, but where we lived there wasn't a lot of the crazy parenting that seems to go on in places like NYC. For most towns I would imagine allowing exceptions based on parent requests to work out fine.

~amy