April 19th is ACT Day in Des Moines Schools

ACT Day: it’s becoming an annual tradition at Des Moines Public Schools as the day when hundreds of high school juniors take – free of charge – the ACT college entrance exam. This year that day falls on Wednesday, April 19. Make-up test Day is May 3rd.

This is the tenth year DMPS has been offering the ACT exam to all juniors. Over the past four years, between 1,600 and 1,700 juniors take the exam on this day, approximately 90 percent of the class. Only juniors attend school on this day. Freshman,Sophomores and Seniors do not report to school.

The benefits are becoming evident. Enrollment in Advanced Placement and other college preparatory courses has increased dramatically. Students who otherwise may not have considered college are learning they have what it takes. Colleges and universities open a dialogue with students, encouraging them to be college-ready and begin considering career options. The district’s graduation rate continues to increase. And students are given a free shot at a test that can have a direct and positive impact on their futures.