This year, the average ACT score for Rockwood was 23.7, compared to a state average of 21.6, and a national average of 21.1. More than 1,720 students took the exam this year.

This statistic also represents the first year that Rockwood has administered the ACT district-wide. These tests will provide “ongoing data” and a history of Rockwood’s performance, Sophomore Principal Dr. Jennifer Sebold said.

Dr. Sebold added that the district, and MHS, want to “give everyone an opportunity” to take the ACT, which the district provides for free, instead of families paying a fee to take the test.

Rockwood has historically had high scores, and the scores remain high this year; however, the average composite score has dropped since last year, from a 24.1 to a 23.7. Dr. Sebold said this drop is an effect resulting from a larger testing pool and added that it went down “less than we expected.”

She compared these scores to the US’ scores on international exams, pointing out that everybody is educated here—not just the best students.

“We educate everybody— it’s a right, not a privilege,” she said.

Rockwood’s strongest section was reading, separated by less than a point from the other sections of the test.

Sebold said the district performs so well because the faculty is “hardworking” and implements ACT-centered curriculum and the students also take classes to prepare.

Susan Wang,  junior, scored a 36 and recommends practice tests, which proved effective for her.