It’s been known as a “weed out” class.  It makes valedictorians bite their nails and scientific scholars pull their hair out.  Freshman go into the classroom as giddy college students and come out  jaded and worn with permanent bags under their eyes.  Organic chemistry has intimidated students since the discovery of 1, 2-dihexadecanoyl.  But Randall High School is taking measures to eliminate the tears that are so closely associated with the class. 

 Chemistry teacher Jo King is offering an organic chemistry class to prepare avid students for the rigorousness of the college course.  Senior, Jonathan Wilhelm got signatures from other students who wanted to take the class as well.  The school board requires 12 signatures to consider opening the class.  Jonathan brought more than 20 to Principal Williams.  King already with seven years of experience with teaching organic chemistry agreed to teach the class.  The new semester class will begin Jan. 4 2013.

“Organic chemistry one of the toughest classes in college,” King said.  “Taking the class in high school will allow students to be more competitive and confident when the take the class in college.  With the higher GPA in college, they will be more likely to move on to Medical or Graduate school.”

Just as the class prepares students for college chemistry, King had to prepare for teaching the class as well.  She said she has exchanged information with the organic chemistry professor at Amarillo College and with former Randall student, Austin Prater. 

“I took Organic Chemistry at Texas A&M and it required many sleepless nights,” Prater said.  “I made A’s on three exams so I know it’s possible to do well in the class.”

King said anyone willing to do the work in her class would see good results in the end.  She is accepting upcoming seniors by invitation for the class.

“I just want people who care about their future,” King said. “I don’t necessarily have the best and brightest students in this class just those with a desire to learn and that’s all it takes.”