PLEASE DIRECT INQUIRIES TO: Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, cpatehefty@wwusd.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 8, 2024
WHS Celebrates Hard Work and Success on ACT Testing
Students at WHS achieve the school’s highest ACT scores since 2018-2019
WHITEWATER, WI — Whitewater High School juniors have achieved the highest composite ACT score the school has reached since 2018-2019. They achieved an average composite score of 19.1 as compared to a composite average score of 17.2 last year, an 11% increase year over year. The 2024 state average composite score is 19.4. 27% of the WHS students met or exceeded three or more college readiness benchmark scores—an 8% increase from the previous year.
This celebration did not come without work and a plan. This year, the WHS staff implemented a three-pronged campaign with students to address skill development, attendance improvement, and test preparation tools. Utilizing a College Equipped Readiness Tool (CERT) program, which took the guesswork out of establishing benchmark scores, it allowed staff to focus on areas of improvement to set student improvement goals.and gave students individualized assessment practice where they needed it. WHS also emphasized the importance of attendance, working with families to eliminate barriers in getting to school, and implemented an exam exemption incentive plan that students could achieve by setting personal improvement goals.
“Our students’ outstanding performance on the 2024 ACT is a testament to the innovative spirit around success that we have at the high school; our educators are committed to continuous improvement,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent of the Whitewater Unified School District. “We proudly celebrate their academic success and commitment to reaching their full potential.”
The ACT is an in-person assessment designed to measure the academic readiness of 11th-grade students in English, math, reading, science, and writing. The ACT provides benchmarks to categorize students as college-ready or below college-ready. Students can use their ACT scores for various purposes, including college admission, scholarships, course placement, and even NCAA eligibility.
More information about the ACT in Wisconsin is available at https://dpi.wi.gov/assessment/act.
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