COUNTY — Students in the School District of Pickens County remained above-state-average SAT scores in 2013, but fell below the national average overall.

SDPC students earned an overall composite score of 1483, higher than the state average of 1423, but below the national average of 1498 and below SDPC’s 2012 score of 1541. However, for the first time in several years, all four high schools earned scores above the state average.

“We always reflect on our data and practices to find ways to improve. We will be working with our instructional staff to provide additional support in areas of need,” said Dr. Kelly Pew, Superintendent.

“While these scores were below the level of excellence demonstrated in past years, we’re confident in the ability of our staff to improve. Along with high school administrators and teachers, district staff will be analyzing these scores to determine steps to improve achievement on the SAT,” said Sharon Huff, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services.

“We are happy with the gains made at Liberty High School this year, and we want to build on that success while striving for a high level of achievement across all of our schools,” Huff said.

Liberty High School’s composite score improved to 1423 from a score of 1363 in 2012. Daniel High School declined from 1620 to 1525, Easley High School declined from 1537 to 1480, and Pickens High School declined from 1522 to 1445.

Students’ scores improved on the Advanced Placement Exam. Across the district, 592 students took the AP exam, up from 537 in 2012. A total of 966 AP exams were taken in the district this year, up from 961 in 2012.

Last year, 64.5 percent of students passed with a 3 or better on the exam, and this year 66.1 percent passed with a score of 3 or better.

Below are tables showing performance on the SAT broken down by subject for the district, the state, the nation and each school.