Aug. 16, 2006

ACT scores increase in all subject areas
GCISD grads set new district record for number of test takers

Grapevine-Colleyville ISD students increased scores over the previous year in all subject areas tested on the ACT college-entrance exam, according to the ACT College Readiness Report released Wednesday. In addition, more students took the exam last year than in previous years, setting a new district record for the number of ACT test takers.

“Our teachers have worked hard to promote college readiness and prepare students for college-entrance exams,” said Superintendent Dr. Kay Waggoner. “These results reflect an increase in each subject area, and we are extremely pleased that our high school students continue to excel.”

Overall, GCISD students averaged a composite score of 23.5 – more than three points higher than the state average and 2.4 points higher than the national average. This is the highest composite score in the last seven years. Scores increased slightly in all subjects tested, with the largest gain in English and equal gains in math, reading and science. The total composite average is up from 22.8 points last year.

The number of test takers in GCISD during 2005-2006 also increased 13 percent from the previous year – setting a new district record for the number of test takers and meeting a goal of the District to increase the number of students taking college-entrance exams. A total of 402 GCISD students took the ACT during last school year. Test takers increased by 16 percent at Grapevine High School and 11 percent at Colleyville Heritage High School.

The ACT is the most widely accepted college entrance exam in the United States. It assesses high school students’ general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The exam tests students in English, math, reading and science reasoning. A writing test is optional.

A summary of the breakdown specific to GCISD, including a year-by-year comparison, is attached and can be found on the District’s web site at www.gcisd-k12.org. Visit www.act.org for more information about the exam.