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Wisconsin Ranks #2 on ACT College Entrance Exam

This year's Wisconsin high school graduates scored an average composite score of 22.2, out of a possible 36. Only Minnesota did better nationally, at 22.9.

Wisconsin's composite score edged up from 22.1 in 2013, while more seniors took the ACT. About 73% of public and private high school graduates took the college entrance exam this past school year.

Nationally, among the states that administer the ACT, the average composite score was 21.0.

The test measures college readiness in four subject ares: English, Math, Reading and Science.

In Milwaukee Public Schools, the average ACT score for the Class of 2014 was up slightly from 2013, from 15.9 to 16.1. In addition, the number of MPS students taking the exam grew over the past year, from 86.3% to 91.5%. Five years ago, the participation rate was 48.4%.

In a statement, MPS Acting Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver said, "Our Commitment Schools effort will begin to transform 14 low-performing schools - into high-performing schools. All of our lowest-performing schools are receiving additional supports and interventions."

Wisconsin Superintendent Tony Evers said the state must continue working to close its achievement gaps. Black and Asian students in Wisconsin scored lower than their national counterparts.  

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