Academic leaders at Mobile County Public Schools are pleased to announce that a large number of MCPSS students from six high schools are being recognized as Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars. The number this year is 293, a 29 percent increase over the district’s 226 AP Scholars in 2024.
To be named an AP Scholar, a student must earn a score of 3 or higher on at least three Advanced Placement exams. The College Board’s AP program allows academically prepared students to take rigorous college-level courses, and they can receive credit from most colleges and universities if they earn a score of 3 or higher on an AP exam, which are graded on 5-point scale.
Of the 293 AP Scholars, 52 were also named AP Scholars with Honor for earning a score of 3 or higher on at least four AP exams; and 82 were also named AP Scholars with Distinction for earning a 3 or higher on at least five AP exams.
“We celebrate the outstanding achievement of our AP Scholars, whose hard work and dedication have set a new standard of excellence,” said Sherry Dillihay-McDade, who represents District 4 on the Mobile County Board of School Commissioners. “This remarkable increase, from 226 scholars last year to 293 this year, reflects the relentless pursuit of knowledge across our district.
“These students have proven that with determination and support, there are no limits to what they can accomplish,” McDade added. “Their success is a testament to the power of high expectations and the bright future ahead for all of our scholars.”
As part of its overall mission to prepare all students to be college and career ready, MCPSS offers dozens of Advanced Placement courses, and covers the cost for the AP exams.
Six MCPSS high schools recorded an increase in AP Scholars. Baker High School, which is the only southwest Alabama school offering the prestigious AP Capstone Program, led the system with 134 AP Scholars. Davidson High had the second-highest, at 125, up from 78 in 2024. Alma Bryant, Citronelle, LeFlore Magnet and Murphy High Schools also had AP Scholars.
“The district’s efforts to broaden AP course offerings at various schools have enabled more students to experience and benefit from the AP program,” said Dr. Melody Tucker, academic supervisor at MCPSS. “Advanced Placement courses strengthen students' academic skills, while the exams offer the chance to earn college credit and build confidence in managing college-level coursework.”
MCPSS offers other paths to earn college credit, including International Baccalaureate and dual enrollment courses with the University of Alabama, the University of South Alabama, Bishop State Community College and Coastal Alabama Community College.