North Carolina high school students have bucked a national trend of declining test scores by posting gains on the SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) tests, according to a report released today by The College Board.

 

“Climbing scores on college entry and Advanced Placement standardized tests is evidence that we are better preparing our students to be college and career ready,” said Governor McCrory. “Our efforts to increase funding to cover student test fees and to support professional development for Advanced Placement teachers are paying off.” 

 

The average SAT scores for 2016 high school graduates in North Carolina increased by 1 point each on both the critical reading and math sections of the test. State gains on both sections outpaced national declines which reflected a 3-point decrease on the critical reading section and a 4-point drop on the math portion.

 

Additionally, North Carolina high school students receiving a 3, 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement exam increased by 3.9 percent over last year. 

 

Under Governor McCrory’s leadership, the 2013 budget established an annual $12 million funding stream to cover the testing fees for all students enrolled in advanced placement courses. This recurring funding also supports professional development for teachers of advanced courses through the North Carolina Advanced Placement Partnership.

 

Additionally, the 2016-17 budget recently signed by Governor McCrory provides $4.3 million for bonuses to reward teachers whose students excel on the AP exams.