Georgia’s students showed continued improvement on the ACT this year, according to data released Thursday, increasing the state’s average composite score and the percentage of students meeting the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks.
Georgia’s average composite score of 21.4 was higher, for the second consecutive year and the second time in state history, than the national average of 21. Georgia also outperformed the nation in English, reading, science, and math.
The ACT consists of curriculum-based tests in English, math, reading, and science and is designed to measure the skills needed for success in first-year college coursework.
GAINESVILLE SCHOOLS
The Gainesville City School System had more test takers this year than last - and scores in all areas were the highest achieved in the previous five years, with an increase in the average composite score from 19.9 in 2016 to 20.8 this year. In English, the district had an average score of 19.9; the benchmark score to determine success in college English classes is 18.
Math and science continue to need work, which is also the case statewide. However, city school officials say the district is making positive progress, averaging scores above 20.0 in both areas this year.
According to Tom Smith, Principal of Gainesville High School, "This marks the fourth consecutive year that GHS has improved upon our ACT score."
