An increasing percentage of New York high school graduates are succeeding on Advanced Placement exams, with 26.5 percent of 2011 grads scoring a 3 or higher on an AP exam — the second highest rate in the nation and far exceeding the national average of 18.1 percent. New York ranks second only to Maryland, where 27.9 percent succeeded on an AP exam.
A decade ago, 18.7 percent of New York graduates were successful on at least one AP exam.
In a report issued last month, the College Board noted the number of New York students taking AP exams has increased significantly in the last decade, with participation up from 27.9 percent in 2001 to 40.3 percent (63,032 students) in 2011.
In addition, more of New York's traditionally underserved students (Hispanic, African-American and low-income graduates) are participating and succeeding on AP exams.
The 10 most popular AP Exams for New York students were U.S. History, English Literature and Composition, English Language and Composition, Calculus AB, Biology, World History, U.S. Government, Psychology, Physics B and European History.
New York's Copiague Public School District is one of three districts in the nation chosen to receive a second annual AP District of the Year Award. They will be honored for leading the nation, among small school districts, in expanding access to AP classrooms while increasing the success rate. The annual AP Report is available at http://apreport.collegeboard.org.