Acadia’s ACT scores continue rise

CROWLEY - Acadia Parish high school students continue to make very significant gains in their average ACT score, according to figures released earlier this week by the state Department of Education.
The percentage of students earning college-going scores is on the rise. Additionally, the percentage of economically disadvantaged students earning college-going scores has significantly increased.
In Acadia, the average ACT composite score rose to 18.9 which reflects a 1.0 increase from last year.
Acadia experienced a 30 percent increase in the number of students scoring college ready scores, a 40 percent increase in the number of students scoring 20 and above, a 25 percent increase in the number of students scoring 23.0 and above, and a 14 percent increase in the number of students scoring 18.0 and above.
According to Louisiana Department of Education data this reflects the second largest growth in the state.
“We are extremely pleased with the progress we are making with students,” said parish Superintendent John E. Bourque. “One of our goals for the past few years has been to better prepare our students with the skills and knowledge they will need to be successful on their paths to college and careers.
“We appreciate and commend the efforts of all stakeholders —students, faculty staff, parents, and community. We are seeing the benefits of initiatives that have been implemented in the schools.”
Acadia’s graduation rate also has significantly increased from 63 percent to 85 percent.
“Everyone is to be commended for their hard work and persistence in bringing about these outstanding improvements,” Bourque said. “We will continue to focus our efforts toward capitalizing on our strengths and addressing areas of weakness.”
ACT scores increase by increasing students’ knowledge of test materials and test structure/procedures.
Rayne High School experienced a 47 percent increase in the percentage of students scoring 25.0 or higher while Midland High School experienced a 30 percent increase in the percent of students earning a passing ACT score.
The ACT (American College Testing Program) is a standardized test used as a college entrance exam. High ACT scores can earn scholarship money for students.