(October 26, 2001) -- Clark’s most recent SAT9 score surpassed the Academic Performance Index (API) target by nine points, giving it the highest API within the Glendale Unified high schools. The API is determined by a formula based on students’ SAT9 scores and is used to rank schools. Clark’s set target was to increase from the 1999-2000 API of 786 to 787. Instead, the 2000-2001 API reached 796.

Every year, the state sets a target goal for each school. If the goal is exceeded, the school becomes eligible for grants from the state. Because Clark surpassed the target last year, it was given a grant which it used in part to build the awning at the top of the amphitheater.
Principal Doug Dall said he feels the test is only valid if the students take it seriously. He also said the standardized tests students take in high school are good practice for further tests in the future.

Most students said they don’t study for the SAT9, but also that they take the test seriously. Junior Alex Hovsepian said, “The SAT9s are helpful in determining the student’s logical capacities.”  However,  junior Zaruhi Najarian said that the test puts too much pressure on the students.

In the Glendale Unified School District, Hoover High School, likewise, surpassed their API goal of 614 with a 635. However, Crescenta Valley High missed its target of 760 with a 754.  Glendale also fell short of its 613 target with a 594.

Each state sets its own standards on the subjects students are tested on. The students’ scores are then accumulated and displayed as a national percentile ranking. This system ranks students with others at the same grade level nationwide. The SAT9 scores are also added to students’ transcripts and some may also receive grants for an outstanding performance on the test.