College Park Academy has once again been recognized for our commitment to academic excellence. We have been named to the 2024 AP School Honor Roll at the Platinum level, the highest distinction awarded by the College Board. This prestigious honor recognizes schools with AP programs that deliver exceptional results while broadening access for students.

Our students have truly excelled, achieving impressive milestones:

• 100% of seniors took at least one AP Exam during high school.
• 74% of seniors scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam. (11% increase year over year)
• 69% of seniors completed five or more AP Exams. (27% increase year over year)

These accomplishments are a testament to CPA’s unwavering dedication to rigorous college prep, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and preparing them for the challenges of higher education. By taking AP courses, our students not only take on advanced academic curriculum but also develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and resilience—key attributes for success in college and beyond.

AP courses are more than just a pathway to college credit; they signal to college admissions officers that our students have embraced the most challenging courses available. Research shows that students who score a 3 or higher on an AP Exam are more likely to succeed in college and earn their degrees. At CPA, we are proud to offer 19 AP subjects, giving students the chance to explore their passions while earning college-level credit. 

This Platinum-level recognition is a reflection of the hard work of our students, the dedication of our teachers, and the support of our entire school community.

College Park Academy has been ranked #1 high school in Prince George’s County among the 2024 Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report. The school was also ranked #1 for graduation rate in Maryland, #2 charter school in Maryland, and #1,691 for high schools nationally. The rankings evaluate nearly 18,000 high schools at the national, state and local level. 

High School Principal Gordon Libby notes, “College Park Academy’s academic success is built upon the dedication of our students and their families. Our vibrant partnership with the University of Maryland and the College Park community opens doors to many exciting career pathways. With this year’s rankings, we renew our commitment to offer the best in education for Prince George’s County students, grades 6-12.” 

The methodology focuses on six factors: college readiness; reading, math and science proficiency; reading, math and science performance; underserved student performance; college curriculum breadth; and graduation rates. “The 2024 Best High Schools rankings highlight schools across the country where students consistently demonstrate academic excellence,” said LaMont Jones, managing editor of education at U.S. News. “Having access to our data on the high schools can empower families as they navigate today’s educational environment and plan for the future.” Parents and students can see how College Park Academy compares to other institutions and how the rankings are calculated on USNews.com. 

About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate, Careers and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Source: https://www.pgcps.org/inside-pgcps/2023-2024/three-high-schools-recognized-for-advanced-placement-excellence

Three High Schools Recognized for Advanced Placement Excellence

Seniors at College Park Academy, Eleanor Roosevelt High School and Bowie High school were recognized for academic achievement in the Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) Capstone Diploma program, a multi-year, project-based learning experience that develops critical thinking, research, collaboration and presentation skills.

Ten students earned their Capstone Diplomas by earning scores of three or high in AP Seminar, AP Research and on four additional AP Exams. Twenty-five seniors were awarded the AP Seminar and Research Certificate for scoring a three or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research.

Additionally, the College Board announced that College Park Academy and Eleanor Roosevelt High School have been named to the AP School Honor Roll, earning Platinum and Bronze distinction respectively. Both schools earned this recognition for their commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit and maximizing college readiness.

At College Park Academy, where students begin to prepare for college level work in sixth grade, all students took at least one AP exam during high school with more than 40% taking five or more exams. This year, more than 60% scored a three or higher on at least one of the exams.

“High school students are required to enroll in one of six signature programs culminating in a student-designed capstone project through AP® Seminar and AP® Research courses,” said Christopher Irwin, Instructional Lead Teacher and AP® Coordinator. “In partnership with the University of Maryland, we offer a challenging and rewarding educational experience.”

At Roosevelt, 45% of seniors took at least one AP exam, with 34% scoring three or higher. Eleven percent took five or more AP exams.

“Eleanor Roosevelt’s AP program has been student-centered since day one, and our Advanced Placement Program has been successful for three decades,” said Dr. Marisha Stewart, AP Coordinator. “Our success is due to promoting teacher collaboration, eliminating barriers for students, systemically supporting teachers, employing data to drive change and optimizing the master schedule.”

The College Board’s Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) gives students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school and potentially earn credits towards their college diploma.