The maker of the SAT and AP tests has honored Taft Union High School District for expanding access to college to traditionally underrepresented students.

The district is one of only 130 across the United States to be placed on The College Board’s Gaston Caperton Opportunity Honor Roll for increasing the number of underrepresented students who take and score well on the SAT and AP tests. Taft Union was also commended for increasing the number of students who send their scores on to four or more colleges.

District Supervisor Blanca Cavazos said in a statement after learning of the honor, “Our teachers, counselors, and administrators have worked hard to provide students and parents with opportunities to learn how to access and prepare for higher education. We are thrilled to have their efforts recognized by The College Board.”

Fifty-four percent of Taft Union’s students come from a socio-economically disadvantaged household.

Kelli Forsch