Hamilton County Schools ACT Scores Show Slight Improvement

ACT Performance Overview

Hamilton County Schools have reported a modest increase in ACT scores for the class of 2025, according to the latest data from the Tennessee Department of Education. The average composite ACT score for this cohort rose to 18.9, a slight improvement from 18.7 the previous year.

Despite this progress, Hamilton County students continue to score below both state and national averages. The state average remains steady at 19.3, while the national average is slightly higher at 19.4, as reported by the ACT organization.

Understanding ACT Scores

The ACT is scored on a scale from 1 to 36, with a composite score representing the average of the scores in English, math, reading, and science. Tennessee considers a score of 21 as a benchmark for college readiness.

In Hamilton County, 36.8% of the class of 2025 achieved a composite score of 21 or above. However, a significant portion, 53.9%, scored below 19. Notably, nine district high schools surpassed the state average, with Lookout Valley Middle/High and Signal Mountain Middle/High showing remarkable improvements, each increasing their average scores by over one point.

School-Specific Performance

Average ACT Composite Scores by School

• Hamilton County Collegiate High: 26.3
• Signal Mountain Middle/High School: 24.9
• Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts: 24.6
• Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts: 24.2
• Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences: 23.7
• STEM School Chattanooga: 23.7
• Soddy Daisy High School: 21.4
• East Hamilton High School: 21.3
• Sale Creek Middle/High School: 21.1
• Ivy Academy: 20
• Hixson High School: 19.5
• Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy: 19.5
• Lookout Valley Middle/High School: 19.2
• Ooltewah High School: 18.7
• Chattanooga Preparatory School: 18.3
• Hamilton County Virtual School: 18
• Red Bank High School: 17.4
• Sequoyah High School: 16.8
• Central High School: 16.7
• Tyner Academy: 15.9
• East Ridge High School: 15
• Brainerd High School: 13.9
• The Howard School: 13.8

Source: Tennessee Department of Education

Focus on Inclusivity and Growth

Superintendent Justin Robertson expressed pride in the upward trend, highlighting the dedication of educators and the resilience of students. He noted a significant increase in the number of students with disabilities achieving a score of 21 or higher, with their average composite score rising to 16.2, surpassing the statewide average for this demographic.

Conversely, English learners and economically disadvantaged students recorded the lowest average scores at 13.6 and 16.1, respectively, although both figures showed slight improvements from the previous year.

Chief Academic Officer Blake Freeman emphasized the district’s commitment to closing achievement gaps among demographic groups. This year, the focus will be on ensuring all students have access to a rigorous, grade-level curriculum, aiming for growth in reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Regional Comparisons

In Southeast Tennessee, three school districts—Meigs County Schools, Sequatchie County Schools, and Tullahoma City Schools—outperformed the state average. Tullahoma City Schools recorded the highest regional ACT composite score at 19.9, while Bledsoe County Schools achieved the most significant improvement, with a two-point increase to an average score of 19.1.

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In summary, while Hamilton County Schools have made strides in improving ACT scores, there remains a significant gap compared to state and national averages. The district’s focus on inclusivity and targeted strategies for growth is commendable, and continued efforts will be essential in ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically.