ADAMS TWP — A program to improve the Advanced Placement Program at the Mars High School is being considered by the Mars School Board.

Matt Friedman, assistant superintendent for secondary education, told the board Tuesday that representatives of the National Math and Science Initiative are looking to start a new program in the district that would increase the number of students who take advanced placement courses.

Friedman said the program focuses on intensive professional development for faculty that would improve students’ chances of entering advanced placement English, science and mathematics courses.

“It focuses on what is needed for teachers and students to get them ready for AP courses,” Friedman said.

He said NMSI will also reimburse students 50 percent of the fees they spend on AP courses. The average cost to students for one AP class is about $100, Friedman said.

High school principal Todd Kolson said he is familiar with the program, but Friedman is taking the lead regarding whether the initiative would benefit Mars,

“Any type of program that would help teachers and students with AP, all the better,” Kolson said.

The program is in four Western Pennsylvania school districts, Friedman said.

He said the initiative may come before the board later.

The board took no action on the initiative on Tuesday.