Madison Reporter

Students in the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) have reached new highs in Advanced Placement (AP) exam participation and performance this year. According to district data, 2,043 high school students completed 4,521 AP exams during the spring, which marks a 10.7% increase in student participation and an 18.9% rise in total exams taken compared to last year.

The percentage of students scoring a 3 or higher on their AP exams increased to 80.2%, up from 76% the previous year. The average score also rose from 3.40 to 3.54 out of a possible five points.

“These are the strongest AP results we’ve seen to date, and they’re evidence of what’s possible when high expectations are paired with high levels of support,” said Tim Peterson, MMSD’s director of assessment. “Our students are continuing to take on academic challenges, and they’re delivering. That speaks volumes about their drive to achieve, as well the commitment of MMSD teachers and school leaders to their success.”

AP courses provide college-level curriculum for high school students. Those who earn scores of three or above may qualify for college credit or advanced placement at many colleges and universities.

Peterson attributed these improvements not only to student effort but also to deliberate efforts by the district over several years aimed at broadening access across all comprehensive high schools.

“More students are seeing AP as an option that belongs to them,” Peterson added. “We’ve invested in outreach, academic coaching and AVID, and it’s making a difference. Our educators have built a foundation that allows students from all backgrounds to succeed in these courses.”

MMSD offers a variety of AP classes covering math, science, English, history, music theory and more subjects throughout its high schools. The district has also worked with individual schools to remove barriers for entry into AP courses and support historically underrepresented groups during their AP experience.

Families interested in learning more about Advanced Placement offerings can find information on their respective high school’s website or by contacting their school counselor.