Bartow county school system, tier I instruction, professional learning, attendance

The Bartow County School System is celebrating another record-setting year of Advanced Placement (AP) achievement, with more than 335 students earning recognition on the College Board's 2026 AP Scholar Roster and receiving a combined 419 awards, the highest total in district history.

The College Board's AP Program gives academically prepared students the opportunity to engage in rigorous, college-level coursework while still in high school. Students who earn qualifying scores on AP exams may receive college credit, advanced placement, or both.

Among this year's honorees:

  • 63 students earned the designation of AP Scholar with Distinction, awarded to students who achieve an average AP exam score of at least 3.5 and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams.

  • 69 students were named AP Scholars with Honor, recognizing students who earn an average score of at least 3.25 and scores of 3 or higher on four or more AP exams.

  • 203 students received the title of AP Scholar, awarded to students who score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams.

The district also saw continued success in the AP Capstone program. A total of 54 students earned the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma, a distinction awarded to students who successfully complete a two-year sequence focused on research, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication. In addition, 30 students earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, demonstrating strong performance in inquiry-based learning and independent research.

The district's record-setting results were supported by 40 educators who earned recognition as AP Teachers of Distinction or AP Teachers of Distinction with Honor, highlighting the critical role teachers play in student achievement.

"These accomplishments reflect the dedication of both our students and teachers to pursuing academic excellence at the highest level," said Paula Camp, Director of Advanced Learning, STEM, and Gifted Programs. "Each AP course challenges students to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage with content at a college level. The record number of AP Scholar awards demonstrates not only increased participation, but also a commitment to achieving at a high standard. Our AP teachers consistently provide the rigorous instruction, encouragement, and support students need to succeed, creating opportunities for more students to leave high school prepared for the demands of college and future careers. The continued growth of our AP program is something our entire district can be proud of."