Burlington students post top ACT scores in state

The Wyoming Department of Education has posted its state level ACT State Test Day Outcomes for the school year 2023-2024 and once again, Burlington’s ACT composite scores are leading all other schools in the state. 

“This is the third year in a row that Burlington High School has led the state in ACT scores and the eighth time in the past 12 years,” said Ryan Olson. “They
haven’t had a lower
finish than third in that same time span.” 

The ACT is a test for juniors, so the results that were just posted are for this year’s senior class. 

Principal Autumn Tempany gives a lot of the credit to the teachers, saying, “Our School Improvement team, led by Ryan Olson, has made significant strides in prioritizing ACT practice as a means to enhance literacy skills among our students. 

“This initiative would not be possible without the dedication and hard work of our teachers, who have embraced this challenge with enthusiasm and commitment. Every week, our educators provide structured timed passage practice, creating an environment that encourages students to engage more deeply with the material. They not only facilitate the practice sessions but also take the time to discuss the correct answers, ensuring that students understand their mistakes and learn from them. This ongoing dialogue fosters a culture of growth and resilience. To further motivate our students, we strive to recognize and celebrate those who excel on these practice passages, as well as those who show improvement week after week. By honoring both achievement and effort, we create a supportive atmosphere that encourages all students to strive for their best.” 

In addition to the high test scores, Olson is seeing even more benefits from their focus. “It’s more than just practicing for a test; but rather gaining important skills that colleges and future employers want our graduates to know,” he said. “For example, I believe that all of our students should know how to use commas effectively, figure out what 40% off of a $200 purchase is, find a bias in a magazine article and read a graph quickly and effectively. These are things that the ACT tests and so we make it a priority in our teaching. 

“But, of course, as an added benefit, the state of Wyoming rewards high ACT scores with the Hathaway scholarship. It’s great that so many of our students won’t have to worry about how to pay for college. These scores help give our kids so many more options on where they can go to college as well.”