More students pass AP exams statewide

More South Carolina students are earning college credit while still in high school, according to results on the College Board's Advanced Placement exams released Tuesday.

The exams measure students in courses such as biology, English literature, calculus and U.S. history. Students who score a 3 or higher on a 5-point scale often receive college credit.

A total of 14,922 South Carolina exams were scored as a 3 or higher in 2007, up 11 percent from last year. The percentage of students passing the AP tests also increased statewide, from 55.7 percent of test-takers last year to 57.1 percent this year.

All students enrolled in rigorous AP courses are required to take the end-of-year tests. Since 1984, South Carolina has paid for AP instructional materials and students' test fees, and offered specialized training for teachers.

"Our AP classes have top-quality teachers, an intense focus on clearly understood goals and high expectations for all kids," State Superintendent of Education Jim Rex said in a news release. "We need to approach every class that way, not just AP classes."

Although the state announced its overall AP scores Tuesday, the College Board, which administers the tests, will not release scores for individual districts or high schools until later this fall.

The Berkeley County School District, however, did release its AP scores. In Berkeley, 66 percent of 265 exams taken received a passing score. That percentage is nearly 9 percentage points higher than the state's pass rate.

Assistant Superintendent for Learning Services Mike Turner called the district's pass rate "very strong" and said it indicates that many of Berkeley's brightest students are pushing themselves.

"AP classes make a huge difference for many of our students because top-flight colleges ask for participation in these courses as an indicator during the admissions process," Turner said. "It's just a hallmark of excellence to have those courses on your transcript."

The Charleston County School District and both Dorchester County districts will release their results in the coming months.

Reach Mindy B. Hagen at 5433 or mhagen@postandcourier.com.