Springfield High reports gains in AP participation and Keystone growth

Dr. Cotton, district staff member, told the Springfield School District Board of School Directors on Sept. 25 that Springfield High School students showed multi‑year gains on Advanced Placement and Keystone assessments. In 2025, 84% of AP students earned a 3 or higher; 436 students took 903 AP examinations.

The presentation summarized five‑year trends from College Board AP school summary reports and district assessment data. ‘‘The 2025 report provided a consistent progression of student growth from 2020 to 2025,’’ Dr. Cotton said, noting a 70% increase in the number of AP students participating in testing, a 16% increase in examinations taken, and a 52% growth in students earning scores of 3 or better over that period.

Dr. Cotton also described results from the district’s Keystone exam administration for grade 10 literature and integrated math 2 students. Using measures from the Pennsylvania Value‑Added Assessment System, the district reported a 23% growth measure on the Keystone literature exam and a 21% growth measure on Keystone algebra.

Board President Lord, board president, and other members congratulated staff on the results and asked about next steps to sustain growth. Dr. Cotton said instructional use of assessment data, targeted feedback, and student engagement will continue to guide practice.

The report was informational; no board action was taken. Board members and staff emphasized continued use of data to drive instruction and monitor student progress.