SDOC releases 2014 SAT Scores

The College Board releases SAT scores for the graduating class of 2014. While the mean score for students across the state of South Carolina remained fairly consistent with 2013 scores, the mean score for School District of Oconee County students increased across the board. It is important to note, however, that not all students participate in the College Board SAT testing program, so scores may vary based on participation rates and other factors. Mean SAT scores for SDOC 2014 seniors showed increases compared to tested 2013 seniors. The district composite score in 2014 increased 55 scale points over 2013, which was an increase of six scale points over 2012. Based on available data, this ranks the School District of Oconee County 12th in the state, compared to 14th in 2013 and 19th in 2012. In addition to Seneca High School and Walhalla High School exceeding South Carolina means in all areas of the SAT, Seneca High School improved in all areas as compared to their 2013 performance and West-Oak High School increased mean scores in two out of three areas. Oconee County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Thorsland was pleased overall with these scores, “We remain focused on achieving our goal of being in the top ten districts in the state. The College Board SAT test is one of many important measures to tell us whether or not we are achieving this goal. The 2014 tested seniors have much to be proud of, based on these measures. As we go forward, we will seek to make sure every student who intends to go to college is counseled to participate in these sorts of assessments and that each one is able to demonstrate his or her readiness for college.” Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Ginger Hopkins added, “Good things are happening in our state to align our standards with indicators of college and career readiness. This improved alignment will help us know well in advance how prepared our students are for tests like the SAT, allowing us to intervene early enough to make a difference. And if all goes as planned, all South Carolina eleventh graders will be taking the ACT next year as one of the state accountability tests. This will help us better understand scores since all students will be participating and that means we will have a better idea of what is working in our curriculum and where we need to focus improvement efforts.” Mrs. Hopkins also noted that College Board is implementing a new program this year to support financially challenged students in their college admissions efforts with free score reporting to up to four colleges of the student’s choice. Students should work with their high school counselors to learn how to take advantage of this opportunity.