More Newark Public Schools Students Achieve Success On AP Exams

NEWARK, N.J. – More Newark Public Schools students than ever are taking Advanced Placement (AP) exams and achieving scores that lead to college credit, according to data released by district officials.

In Spring 2024, 1,724 district students took AP exams, marking a substantial increase of 710 from the previous year and more than double the 639 students who took AP exams in 2021.

Meanwhile, 42 percent of the 2024 test-takers earned a score of three or higher on the exams’ five-point scale, significantly higher than the 29 percent who met the threshold last year and more than double the percentage of students who scored three or higher in 2021.

A score of three or higher is a gateway to potential college credit. Many colleges recognize this threshold and award credit in the respective subject area, saving the student valuable tuition dollars.

“I am extremely proud of our students for taking on the challenge of AP courses and performing well on the exams,” said Superintendent León. “This accomplishment is not only a testament to our students’ hard work and commitment to academic excellence, it is also a reflection of the incredible support from our teachers and staff who continue to encourage students to challenge themselves, and our students’ families who are behind them every step of the way.”

“On behalf of the Board of Education, we are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements on their Advanced Placement (AP) exams,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “The increasing number of students participating in AP courses, coupled with the growing percentage of students achieving success on AP exams, is a remarkable milestone for our district. These accomplishments highlight our students’ dedication, our educators’ excellence, and our families’ unwavering support.”