Lockport HSD 205 reports 10% growth in AP performance amid big increase in participation

District leaders told trustees that Lockport Township High School District 205 substantially increased student participation in Advanced Placement and dual-credit offerings and that performance on AP assessments improved by approximately 10 percent despite a large increase in participation.

Superintendent Dr. Robert McBride summarized district data showing total AP program participation rising from about 578 students in 2021 to roughly 1,378 students in 2025 (an increase of almost 800 students, as shown in board materials). He told the board the district intentionally broadened access to AP and dual-credit courses to create rigorous pathways for more students.

"When you begin to recruit students who don't usually take advanced placement tests—you generally see a decline in performance," the superintendent said, explaining a common pattern when participation expands. "But what our teachers have accomplished is a 10% increase in performance. And I really just can't stress how huge that is." He credited teachers, counselors and school leaders for outreach and instruction that supported the expanded cohort.

Administrators and board members said the effort aligns with the board—s 2021 emphasis on the College and Career Readiness Index (CCRI) as a key achievement measure. The superintendent noted the district also monitors criterion-referenced tests and other measures and plans to report additional scores (AP scores, grade performance and dual-credit outcomes) over the coming months.

District staff emphasized the potential cost savings for families from increased dual-credit accrual in high school and said the program expansion is intended to increase college and career readiness for a more diverse student population.

Trustees applauded the reported gains and asked administrators to provide follow-up data on AP subject-area results and dual-credit participation by feeder district.