WILTON – Wilton- Lyndeborough Cooperative High School will have a new program of studies beginning this fall. School principal Brian Bagley presented an overview of the new programs to the school board in January. A leadership team has been working on it for the last three years, he said. The team members spent time "working with the department heads," Bagley said. "The goal is to address the needs of all students." The three-year plan will be implemented slowly, he said.

The plan includes more Advanced Placement courses, plus nine new electives. Dual courses will be offered with Nashua Community College so that – theoretically, at least – a student could graduate with an associate’s degree. Team members said that honors courses would continue in all subjects. "A small school can offer so many opportunities," said Superintendent Christine Tyrie, who has worked with the committee.

The school requires 24 credits to graduate. Board member Harry Dailey asked, given the limited staff, "If you are adding nine new electives, what are losing?" Nothing, he was told. Electives are offered only if there is interest; the object is to offer more opportunities. Not all options will run every year, but there are qualified teachers for each course.

– JESSIE SALISBURY