SMCHS Named to AP School Honor Roll with Gold Level Distinction

Santa Margarita Catholic High School has once again been named to the AP School Honor Roll, earning gold distinction. Schools receive this recognition annually based on criteria that reflects a commitment to supporting students on their path to college success, expanding access to college-level coursework, and promoting college readiness.  SMCHS was also recognized with the AP Access Award, which honors schools that encourage greater participation in AP courses among all students.  

Based on 2025 AP Testing results:

• 51% of students in the 10^th-12^th grade took at least one AP course in 2024-25
• 61% of seniors took at least one AP Exam in high school
• 26% of seniors took five or more AP Exams
• 49% seniors scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, earning the opportunity for college credit or advanced placement
• 91% overall AP pass rate
• 305 AP Scholars, earning a 3 or higher on at least 3 exams, 10% nationwide achieve this designation

Santa Margarita’s AP Program Offers:

• 24 AP courses
• 83 course sections
• 27 teachers instructing AP Courses

“AP gives students the opportunity to engage with college-level work, earn college credit and placement, and build professional career skills they can use no matter what path they choose after high school,” said Trevor Packer, head of the College Board’s AP program.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) enables students to take college-level courses while still in high school with the opportunity to earn college credit or advanced placement. Through AP courses, culminating in a challenging exam, students learn to think critically and learn to consider multiple perspectives, skills that prepare them for college and beyond. Santa Margarita Catholic High School remains committed to providing students access to differentiated learning opportunities across all grade levels, meeting the needs of all learners while supporting each student’s academic and spiritual growth.

“Being named an AP Gold Honor Roll recipient for the second consecutive year reflects the strength of our academic program and our commitment to preparing students for college success,” said Director of  the Learning Center Seyram Bell, who oversees the school's Advanced Placement program.  “We are proud of our students and their hard work and grateful for our faculty and staff for continuing to pursue excellence at the highest level.”