The Governor’s Office of Student Achievement (GOSA) highlights exemplary schools and school systems that apply best practices resulting in improved student achievement and/or increased school completion rates. Enjoy reading about these educational models of excellence.

Noteworthy Advanced Placement (AP) Achievement
Many high schools in Georgia are making great strides in raising their Advanced Placement (AP) participation and achievement rates. One in particular, Berkmar High School in Gwinnett County, has made significant, noteworthy gains.

Berkmar High School, an AP Access and Support School
Last fall, the GaDOE recognized high schools that increased AP participation and achievement among traditionally underrepresented student groups. These AP Access and Support schools boasted AP test taking populations of at least 30% African American or Hispanic students, and at least 30% of all of their AP students scored at mastery level on an AP exam.

Berkmar High School met and exceeded this distinction when 46.5% of its AP students scored at mastery on AP exams. This achievement is all the more impressive given its student population:

• 64% of its students qualify for the free and reduced meal program;
• Nearly 36% of its students are African American;
• 28% of its students are Hispanic; and
• 14% of its students are Asian.

• A “stretch culture” initiative that pushes students to reach their full potential, identifying potential AP course takers using test data, teachers evaluations, and student preferences;
• Rigorous course standards and small class sizes; and
• Student mentorship that pairs students with teachers.