T.C. Williams Honored For Record-High AP Test Scores

T.C. Williams High School was honored for a record-breaking achievement in AP test scores in the previous school year. The College Board, which runs the AP program, recognized Alexandria City Public Schools on the AP District Honor Roll for expanding AP opportunities and improving scores. It was one of two Virginia public school systems recognized for the honor.

A record 22 percent of participating seniors earned the highest possible score of 5 on the test in the 2017-18 school year. The school also set a record for 72 percent scoring 3, 4 or 5, the scores typically accepted for credit at many higher education institutions.

Not only did the scores improve, but more students took the exam last year. 931 students took 2,201 subject tests in 2018. In all, 36 percent of students from grades 10-12 took at least one AP subject test.

AP courses are college-level classes students can take in high school to earn college credit. T.C. Williams has 33 AP courses and pays for students' AP exam fees. Students typically take the AP exam in May to review their understanding of the content and demonstrate college-level skills. The College Board sends AP score results to students, their future colleges and their high school over the summer.

ACPS began paying for students' exams in 2005. The improvements in scores since then are evident—39 percent of participating students scored a 3, 4 or 5 in 2005.

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