The Jackson County School System continues to see an increase in student participation and achievement in Advanced Placement testing. Testing data received by the system this summer shows another increase in exams administered and an all-time student pass rate.

“Our goal for our students is to provide challenging academic offerings that allow them to earn college credit in high school,” JCSS Superintendent Dr. Philip Brown said. “Our teachers have embraced the opportunity to expand academic offerings, giving more students than ever before the chance to challenge themselves while earning valuable college credit. Even more importantly, these accomplishments reflect a culture that values curiosity, perseverance, and a genuine love of learning.”

During the 2025-26 school year, the system saw 741 students take 1,209 AP exams, compared to 451 students taking 676 exams in 2022. That shows a 78 percent increase in exams administered across just five years. Each year, the system has seen an increase in exams administered, with the 1,209 exams being an all-time high for the system. Additionally, the system is seeing record pass rates on the exams that can earn students college course credit. This year, students at both East Jackson High School and Jackson County High School passed 70 percent of the exams administered, a strong 20 percent increase from administered exams in 2022. 

“Every passing AP exam represents opportunities for our students to earn college credit, save families thousands of dollars in future tuition costs, and gain confidence that they are prepared for success beyond high school,” Brown said. “More importantly, these results demonstrate what is possible when students, dedicated educators, supportive families, and an engaged community work together toward a common goal.”

Projections show that by earning a score of 3 or higher on an AP exam can save a student approximately $1,500 in college tuition for one college course. Based on testing data from the 2025-26 school year,which includes students taking International Baccalaureate and dual enrollment testing, JCSS students saved approximately $2.76 million in college tuition by earning college credit in high school.

The Jackson County School System begins the 2026-27 school year on Thursday, July 31.