ACT scores released; Knox sees gains after increased focus on college readiness

Teachers and administrators in the Knox County Public Schools are seeing the results of an increased focus on college and career readiness with the release of last year’s ACT test data.

The results released on Wednesday during a national press conference held at Jessamine County Area Technology Center in central Kentucky showed that Knox County gained in all tested subject areas by a minimum of one point.    The report reflects the achievement of graduates from Knox County over time and an indication of the extent to which they are prepared for college-level work.

“We are making progress and are closing the gap between our students and the rest of the state,” said Superintendent Walter T. Hulett in a press release to local media.

The greatest increase in scores was on the English section of the ACT with a gain of 2.2 points after students raised their average score from 15.2 in 2010 to 17.4 in 2011.  The mathematics section of the ACT increased by one point after scores rose from 16.7 in 2010 to 17.7 in 2011.  Reading scores increased by 1.3 points last year with an average score of 18 compared to 16.7 the previous year. Science scores climbed 1.3 points to 18.4 in 2011, compared to 17.1 in 2010.

The data does not include the scores from students who took the test at a college or who received extra time accommodations while testing.    Additional data was also released for 11th grade students taking the assessment in 2011.   Knox County’s 11th grade scores, by subject area, were English 15.6, mathematics 17.0, reading 17.0, and science 17.1.    

Additional local media, or interested parties, who wish to obtain a copy of the district’s press release may contact Frank Shelton, Public Relations Director, at (606)546-8911 or via email at frank.shelton@knox.kyschools.us.