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Press Release

Wednesday, February 04, 2009

DOE Press Office
(850) 245-0413

Statement By:
Education Commissioner Dr. Eric J. Smith
Regarding Release of the College Board’s 5th Annual AP Report to the Nation

“I am very encouraged by the Advanced Placement (AP) results released today by the College Board which show more Florida students are taking, and passing AP exams, than ever before. This is solid progress and our teachers should be commended for their efforts to better prepare children for success after graduation. This type of high level instruction is essential in today’s demanding global economy where the high school diploma has been replaced by college degrees and career credentials as the minimum acceptable standard for employment.

I’m particularly pleased with the progress of our minority students who have made great strides over the last decade and are excelling in this challenging coursework. This year’s results singled out six Florida public schools in particular for leading the nation in helping minority students succeed in specific AP subjects such as US History, Psychology, Calculus and Environmental Science. It’s vital we continue this momentum and work to ensure every student has the chance to test themselves and reap the benefits of rigorous courses that prepare them for the next phase of their education.”