2. Wisconsin ACT scores, participation up

A record 70 percent of Wisconsin's 2007 high school graduates took the ACT college admissions test during high school, and their average composite score of 22.3 beats the seven-year trend of scoring 22.2 on the test. The composite score tied with Iowa for second place in the nation among states where 50 percent or more of students take the ACT.

The national composite score for 2007 also increased one-tenth of a point to 21.2. Nationwide, a record 1.3 million graduates took the ACT.

In addition to beating the national average scores, Wisconsin students exceeded national averages for ACT College Readiness Benchmarks. Those benchmarks are scores that predict success in credit-bearing college-level coursework in four areas: English, math, reading, and science.

Students of color represented 11 percent of Wisconsin's ACT test-takers, a 2.9 percent increase over six years. While the majority of state students bettered their national peers on ACT scores and benchmarks, achievement gaps are apparent.

Burmaster says Wisconsin's long record of high ACT scores is the result of investing resources in public schools. But she adds, "Education is at a crossroads in Wisconsin. We need our legislators to act and act soon in order to continue our investment in our students and their schools."

More information: http://dpi.wi.gov/eis/pdf/dpi2007_77.pdf

Last updated on 8/20/2007