Alabama Making Great Strides in Building a College Ready Culture

 
The National Math and Science Initiative is thrilled to share that our partner organization A+ College Ready, dedicated to increasing student achievement in AP math, science and English in Alabama, is preparing more students for college and careers than ever before.
 
At an event to celebrate the Alabama’s success, Governor Robert Bentley announced that the state ranks number one in the nation in percent growth of students achieving qualifying scores on math, science, and English AP exams, with a 136% increase over the last six years. Additionally, the Alabama results show even higher percentage increases in math, science and English qualifying scores for minority students over the last six years—an impressive 232% increase compared to a national increase of 112%.
 
Also attending the results announcement event was State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice, who said, "We are proud to be a part of the successful AP program, which has resulted in thousands of students across the state being offered opportunity and access to academically challenging and inspiring courses. We feel strongly that even more students will take advantage of AP classes and continue to improve and achieve."
 
Founded in 2008, A+ College Ready is a division of the A+ Education Partnership, initially funded by a $13.2 million grant from NMSI to improve student achievement in the subjects of math, science and English. This year marks the sixth year NMSI has worked with Alabama educators to nurture a culture of college and career readiness across their state. The program has expanded from 12 schools in 2008 to 76 schools this past school year. In the 2014-15 school year, the program will support 118 schools in 54 districts.
 
These results are a powerful indicator of how a state-wide investment in a transformational education program can lead to positive and lasting improvement. That is why we are so proud of our continuing partnership with A+ College Ready and their dedication to Alabama’s students, teachers and schools.
 
*Advanced Placement and AP are registered trademarks of the College Board.
 
[Google Author: Timothy Huneycutt]