(Crowley, Texas) – Crowley ISD is one of 130 school districts in the United States – and one of only five school districts in North Texas – being recognized for creating opportunities for traditionally underrepresented students. The districts featured on the Honor Roll have expanded access to higher education by providing students with rigorous academic offerings and innovative college-preparation programs.

“Educators in Crowley ISD are dedicated to improving student achievement for all,” Superintendent Dan Powell said. “Our commitment to college-readiness starts at the top with our Board of Trustees and is seen across every classroom in our school district. This recognition from the College Board proves that we are making significant strides in equipping college-ready students to have the necessary skills for post-secondary success in a global community.”

Districts on the Honor Roll demonstrated significant and consistent growth in the number of underrepresented students and students from lower-income backgrounds participating in AP^®, taking the SAT^®, and applying to four or more colleges.

“The Gaston Caperton Opportunity Honor Roll recognizes educators and administrators who excel in delivering opportunity to students,” said David Coleman, president and CEO of the College Board. “By increasing access to stimulating courses and college opportunity, they have created a culture of success that will continue to grow and benefit students.”

There is no application process for the award. To be included on the Gaston Caperton Opportunity Honor Roll, Crowley ISD had to have:

• Increased the total number of underrepresented students who took the SAT;
• Increased the total number of underrepresented students who took an AP course and exam;
• Increased the total number of underrepresented students who were on track for college, as demonstrated by scoring 1550+ on the SAT;
• Increased the total number of underrepresented students who scored a 3 or higher on an AP Exam; and
• Increased the total number of underrepresented students who sent their SAT scores to at least four colleges

Districts on the Gaston Caperton Opportunity Honor Roll show how exemplary classroom instruction, challenging courses, and daily hard work and practice make all the difference in the lives of students.

The complete Gaston Caperton Opportunity Honor Roll can be found here.

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About Crowley ISD

Crowley ISD is privileged to serve more than 15,000 students across 23 campuses. The district’s commitment to college readiness has resulted in skyrocketing advanced academics participation. Pre-AP courses are now available starting in the 6^th grade. High school students can choose from among 24 AP courses offered at Crowley High School and North Crowley High School. In 2015, CISD students took 1,372 AP Exams, with 439 (32%) scored at a 3, 4 or 5. The district offers the PSAT for free to every 8^th – 11^th grade student. Test preparation courses for the ACT, SAT and AP Exams are also provided at no cost to all students. Enrollment in dual credit courses has increased more than 800% since 2010 through the district’s partnership with Tarrant County College (TCC) where students can earn up to 30 dual credit hours inside the TCC Crowley South Campus Center located on the second floor of the district’s Bill R. Johnson Career and Technology Education (CTE) Center. CISD is proud to provide the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) college readiness system in 11 schools serving every 5th - 12th grade student. AVID has been instrumental in helping CISD close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college and post-secondary opportunities.

About the College Board

The College Board is a mission-driven not-for-profit organization that connects students to college success and opportunity. Founded in 1900, the College Board was created to expand access to higher education. Today, the membership association is made up of over 6,000 of the world’s leading educational institutions and is dedicated to promoting excellence and equity in education. Each year, the College Board helps more than seven million students prepare for a successful transition to college through programs and services in college readiness and college success — including the SAT^® and the Advanced Placement Program^®. The organization also serves the education community through research and advocacy on behalf of students, educators, and schools.