Exciting SAT Results for Charlotte-Area Schools in 2023
Charlotte, North Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as the SAT scores for public high schools and charter schools in the region have been announced! For the graduating class of 2023, several schools not only met but exceeded the impressive benchmark of 1200 in average total SAT scores. This assessment is a significant part of the college admissions process, testing students in mathematics and evidence-based reading and writing (ERW).
Top Performers on the SAT
In an impressive ranking that covers schools from Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Mecklenburg, and Union counties in North Carolina, as well as Lancaster and York counties in South Carolina, eight schools stood out with total scores above 1200. Among them were four schools within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) system, which included two early college programs.
Leading the pack this year was Levine Middle College High School, grabbing the No. 1 position with an average score that is sure to make its educators and students proud. Hot on its heels was Ardrey Kell High School, which climbed to the No. 2 spot. It’s worth noting that Ardrey Kell had close to12 times the number of students taking the SAT compared to Levine, showcasing a strong commitment to academic achievement across the board.
Providence High School followed closely behind, maintaining its strong presence in the rankings by securing the No. 3 spot, albeit dropping slightly from its previous position. While charter schools were notably less represented in the higher score ranges, Bradford Preparatory and Pine Lake Preparatory led the charter school category, though they didn’t quite break the 1200 average mark.
Statewide Trends
Interestingly, across the nation, more students are taking the SAT. For instance, in the high school class of 2024, approximately 1.97 million students took the SAT at least once, representing an uptick from the previous year. However, despite this increased participation, the average total score has declined for the third year in a row, settling at 1024 for the class of 2024, which compares unfavorably to scores from earlier classes.
The Bigger Picture
The College Board, the organization behind the SAT, has noted that fluctuations in participation are closely tied to the evolving landscape of college admissions. More colleges are adopting test-optional policies, influencing how many students choose to take the SAT. However, a wave of reinstated score requirements in 2024 may change this dynamic once again.
For now, the focus remains on celebrating the achievements of students and schools in the Charlotte area who have demonstrated remarkable academic prowess. With more than 1200 average total scores at several schools, it’s a testament to the dedication of students, teachers, and families alike.
As we move forward, let’s keep our fingers crossed for continued excellence in education across the region and cheer on our local schools as they aim for even greater heights in the future!
