East St. Louis Students Excel in Advanced Placement as Illinois Ranks Among Nation’s Best  

EAST ST. LOUIS — As the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announces that Illinois ranks among the top five states nationally for Advanced Placement (AP) participation and performance, East St. Louis Senior High School is contributing to that statewide momentum with continued growth and student achievement.

According to ISBE, 31.4% of Illinois public-school graduates in the Class of 2025 earned a score of 3 or higher on at least one AP exam — the benchmark at which most colleges and universities award credit — placing Illinois fifth in the nation. Notably, Illinois ranks fourth nationally in AP participation among Black/African American graduates, reflecting expanded access to rigorous coursework and advanced learning opportunities.

At East St. Louis Senior High School, where approximately 95% of students identify as Black, students are actively contributing to that statewide success story.

During the 2024–2025 school year, 226 students in grades 9–12 completed AP exams across 15 different courses. The district saw growth in the number of students earning a score of 3 or higher, with 27 students meeting or exceeding that benchmark — an accomplishment that can translate into college credit, tuition savings, and a stronger academic foundation for postsecondary success.

The year also included several milestone achievements:

• A first-ever perfect score of 5 on the AP Precalculus exam, earned by an 11th grader.
• A 9th grader scoring a 4 on AP U.S. Government and Politics.
• An 11th grader earning a 3 on four different AP exams.
• Two additional 11th graders each earning a 3 on two separate AP exams.

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Advanced Placement courses allow students to engage in rigorous college-level instruction while still in high school, strengthening critical thinking, analytical writing, and problem-solving skills. Students who earn qualifying scores may receive college credit, potentially saving families thousands of dollars in tuition and fees while accelerating time to degree completion. Beyond credit, AP coursework builds the academic confidence and persistence necessary for long-term success.

“These accomplishments reflect the hard work of our students and the dedication of our educators,” said Superintendent Arthur R. Culver. “Our scholars are demonstrating that when access to rigorous coursework is paired with strong instruction and support, excellence follows. We are proud of the way our students are rising to meet high expectations and preparing themselves for success beyond high school.”

Students earning scores of 3 or higher were celebrated on campus, and many continue to pursue additional AP coursework this year. Meanwhile, members of the Class of 2025 have entered college equipped with valuable experience in advanced academic study.

As Illinois continues to expand access to Advanced Placement programs statewide, East St. Louis School District 189 remains committed to ensuring students have meaningful opportunities to challenge themselves, earn college credit, and graduate ready for the demands of postsecondary education and the workforce.

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