SAT Scores on the Rise in PWC, Lower in Woodbridge

According to the Prince William County Schools website, SAT scores across the county rose nine points from the graduating class of 2010.

Specifically, SAT scores increased six points in math, two points in critical reading and one point in writing making for an overall average score of 1508.

Prince William County Schools' Office of Accountability distributed the scores yesterday. Associate Superintendent for Student Learning and Accountability Tim Healey, a former Woodbridge Senior High School teacher and principal of Osbourn Park, said there are three major reasons as to why SAT scores on up this year.

"Four years ago the School Board began paying the fees for all 10th and 11th grade students to take the PSAT test," said Healey. "This assured that students would have at least two practice experiences on SAT type questions in a SAT type testing atmosphere."

Healey also credited student and parental review of PSAT scores as instrumental in preparing for the real test.

 "Across all high schools there is a strong emphasis to have more students take rigorous courses; such as Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate," said Healey. "When students are exposed to this type of class and the expectations of this type of class they tend to be better prepared for the SAT test."

Healey noted that tougher courses and preparation for the SAT also equip students for greater challenges that they will face in college.

"Our school leaders have worked hard with teachers to incorporate more SAT-type skills into their daily lessons," said Healey.  "Our teachers have viewed this as a team effort and have really tried to infuse critical reading, mathematical problem solving, and writing into their lesson plans."

Prince William County's average critical reading score for 2009-2010 was 509, math was 505 and writing logged a score of 494 county-wide. 

Woodbridge Senior High School's average SAT scores for last year were a bit under the county mark, with students scoring 506, 500 and 491 in critical reading, math and writing, respectively.

Gar-Field Senior High School's scores dropped from the 2008-2009 school year's scores, even though 27 more students took the test this year. Gar-Field students' averages were 489, 479 and 472 for critical reading, math and writing, respectively.

The College Board reports that the national average score for 2009-2010 SATs is 1509. Virginia as a state has a cumulative critical reading, math and writing score of 1521.

Brenstville High School in Nokesville, VA had the highest average in the county, with a score of 1596.