Dansville REACH launched in the 2007-2008 academic year. Initial results were stunning, with the number of AP exams taken increasing by a factor of four to five times historical rates in Dansville. The number of passing exam scores (scores of 3, 4 or 5) increased by a factor of three to four times historical rates. The number of students participating in AP exams multiplied by about five-fold and the number of students receiving one or more passing score increased by about three-fold.

In May 2008 students took 82 AP exams. In prior years the number of exams taken ranged from 15 to 20. Of those 82 exams 49 achieved a passing score of 3, 4, or 5. In all, 55 students participated, and of those 30 students achieved passing scores.

Four teachers requested and received study materials funded by Dansville REACH to supplement AP instruction. Two teachers attended an AP staff development conference during the summer of 2008, with conference and travel costs paid for by the REACH program.

In May 2009 students took 64 exams. European History was a new AP subject for Dansville, challenged by eight students. A remarkable number of U.S. History students - 21 in all - took the AP exam, and overall achieved a phenomenal 75% passing rate for AP U.S. History.

Dansville REACH is committed to continuing to encourage students to challenge themselves via AP courses and exams. With the help of teachers, parents, and the community, we can continue to raise academic expectations and achiement in Dansville.


Contact tjwitte@frontiernet.net