The ACT will be taken by the Junior Class on Feb. 25, two months earlier than previous years. The earlier date has caused some concerns among students about how the early date will affect their scores.

“It will probably pose a slight challenge to students, mostly because they wouldn’t have had enough math in the school year. Typically we push it back until April so we can give students as much math as we can before going into the test. I don’t know if it will have a significant impact, but that could be a factor” Assistant Principal Mandy Lewis said.

Students are expected to bring two, non-mechanical, No.2 pencils, an ACT approved calculator and a form of photo identification. It is also recommended that students bring their official school IDs as their form of identification. Students must leave all electronic devices, hats, water bottles, backpacks or anything other than the required items in their locker.  

“I feel like a lot of students often bring way too much anxiety to the table. This is not a defining moment. It’s an important moment, but not a defining moment in who you are,” Testing Coordinator Jessica Brawner said. 

Teachers and counselors recommend students prepare both mentally and physically the days before the test. Teachers recommend lots of sleep and a good breakfast but to also prepare through online practice or courses.

“I’m taking an ACT prep course with the Princeton review every Saturday from nine a.m. to 12 p.m.,” junior Justin Bogar said. “Start practicing early. The more practice you get, the better, and don’t expect to get your preferred score the first time. It may take a few times.”

On the day of the test, students with the last names A-M will report to the Back Gym and students with the names N-Z will report to the Multipurpose Room. Other students with ACT approved accommodations will test in the Library. Students are expected to be at their assigned locations by 8:28 a.m. Students are expected to arrive on time on the day of testing. Late arrivals will not be accepted and will not take the test that day.

Students can expect to receive their results three to eight weeks after testing.