STMA Schools 2013 ACT Scores Exceeds Minnesota, Nation

Continuing a trend set by previous classes, the STMA Schools class of 2013 scored 23.3 on the ACT – exceeding both Minnesota and national averages. 

“The class scored higher than the Minnesota state average of 23.0 which for the eighth consecutive year lay claim to being the best in the nation,” according to a release from STMA Schools. “STMA has exceeded the state average three of the last four years.” 

The scores are increasing at the same time high school enrollment and the percent of STMA seniors taking the test is increasing, according to Superintendent Jim Behle. 

In 2013, 260 seniors (72 percent) took that test compare to 135 (60 percent) in 2006. 

For the first time, all four areas assessed – college English, algebra, social science and biology – showed predictions that more than 50 percent of STMA graduating seniors will receive a B or higher in college coursework, according to the press release. In college English, 82 percent met the benchmark for college readiness, algebra 78 percent, social science 55 percent and biology 55 percent.  All areas except social science exceeded Minnesota college readiness averages.  The percentage of STMA students meeting or exceeding the college algebra benchmark (78%) topped Minnesota readiness by the largest percentage difference among the four categories of 62%.

The statewide average for the Class of 2013 is 74 percent. Behle said it is “impossible to pinpoint” one reason for the increasing scores. 

“We continue to develop and teach a strong academic curriculum.  It’s a combination of great students, parents and teachers,” he said.  

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