Madison Public Schools reports improvements across AP, SAT, NGSS and Smarter Balanced assessments

Madison Public Schools presented its annual fall assessment report on Oct. 14, 2025, showing gains on Advanced Placement participation and scores, an increase in the district’s average SAT score and a marked jump in grade 8 NGSS science results.

The district’s leadership told the Board of Education that even as junior and senior class enrollment has declined, AP testing participation and performance have risen: of roughly 375 juniors and seniors last year, administrators said 366 AP exams were taken and the number of scores 3 or higher has continued to climb. Administrators credited expanded extra-help sessions—16 teachers offered additional test-prep time—and encouraged students to take exams even when enrollment falls.

Superintendent Dr. Cook said the participation rate target is driven by federal guidance that expects roughly 95% assessment participation; she noted the district respects IEP recommendations and parental opt-outs when students do not test. "This represents our students' work," Dr. Cook said when introducing the report, cautioning that single-day assessments can vary by student circumstances.

TJ Sanjay (presenter) highlighted AP…