Press Release

SAT Scores Down; Number Of Test Takers Jumps

Denver Public Schools announced today that its average 1999-2000 Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) combined score decreased to 1,008 from 1,046 the year before. At the same time, the number of students who took the exam jumped from 652 to 826.

The SAT is a requirement for admission to many colleges and universities, primarily in the eastern part of the United States. Colorado colleges and universities generally require students take the ACT (American College Test) exam, and therefore the ACT remains the primary college admission exam in DPS.

"I'm encouraged by the fact that more students are taking the SAT," said Marge Tepper, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education.

"This tells me that more of our students are pursuing educational opportunities, not just locally, but throughout the country," Tepper said. "Our principals and teachers deserve credit for encouraging students to pursue all of their career options," she said.

Scores on the verbal portion of the test decreased to 509 from 532. The mathematics portion decreased to 454 from 477.

The average combined score nationwide for the 1999-2000 school year was 1019 while the Colorado average was 1071.