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2020 SAT Scores Released, YCSD Students Surpass National Average

York County School Division (YCSD) students continue to outperform state and national averages on the SAT according to results released by the College Board this week. YCSD high school seniors achieved an average combined score of 1149, which is 98 points above the national average and 33 points above the state average. The 2020 results also represent an 18-point increase in the overall average score on the SAT from the previous year, resulting in the highest division average in four years.

"We are proud of the SAT performance of the division's graduating class of 2020," said Candi Skinner, chief academic officer. "We attribute this success to collective efforts of our students, teachers, administrators, and YCSD families."

The SAT was revised in 2017 to consist of two sections, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math with an optional essay section. Both sections are scored on a scale from 200 to 800 points. The essay, if taken, is scored separately.

YCSD provides every student in tenth grade the opportunity to take the PSAT. Students and teachers use this information to help identify areas of strength, as well as areas for continued growth. Skinner added, "We commend our instructional staff for supporting students by offering SAT preparatory instruction, 1:1 coaching, and for using data to modify instructional practices to better support student outcomes."

YCSD also recognizes the importance of closing the achievement gap among student populations. As such, we will continue to seek out and train our teachers on research-based best practices, as well as providing all students with access to rigorous coursework to ensure they are college, career, and life ready.

For additional information, read the Virginia Department of Education news release.