Five high schools within the Round Rock Independent School District (ISD) have earned recognition from the College Board by securing spots on the 2025 AP® School Honor Roll. This accolade highlights the district’s commitment to expanding participation and success in Advanced Placement (AP) programs.
According to Michelle Swain, the Director of Gifted and Advanced Academics at Round Rock ISD, this recognition signifies both an increase in student participation and strong academic performance across the district’s campuses. Swain stated, “The fact that we continue every year to grow in participation as well as performance and are seeing record numbers of students earn a three or higher is huge.”
In particular, she noted that many districts consider a 50% success rate for students earning a score of three or higher on AP exams to be commendable. “Having all five of our comprehensive high schools recognized is a testament to how hard our schools have worked to inform students and parents about the benefits of advanced academic coursework and earning college credit before graduating high school,” she added.
Outstanding Achievements by Individual Schools
Westwood High School received Platinum recognition on the 2025 AP School Honor Roll. This campus supported an impressive 80% of the Class of 2026 in enrolling in at least one AP course prior to graduation. Additionally, 72% of these students earned college credit by scoring a three or higher on an AP exam, and 42% took at least five AP courses throughout their high school experience, including at least one course as a freshman or sophomore.
Round Rock High School was honored with Gold status, having 70% of its Class of 2026 participate in at least one AP course. Of these students, 63% earned college credit through their AP exam scores. Similarly, 42% of the class engaged in five or more AP courses during their high school years, with at least one class taken in their early high school years.
In addition, McNeil High School received Silver recognition, while Cedar Ridge High School and Stony Point High School attained Bronze status on the 2025 AP School Honor Roll.
Across all Round Rock ISD schools, a noteworthy 84% of eligible students registered to take an AP exam during the 2025-26 school year. This strong level of participation indicates a growing emphasis on rigorous academic standards.
Long-Term Benefits of Advanced Placement Courses
Swain emphasized the lasting advantages of AP coursework for students. “We know that students taking AP courses, whether they take the exam or not, are better prepared to handle the rigor of college classrooms and coursework,” she explained. “By earning a three or higher on an AP exam, students save time and money in college while demonstrating they are ready for college-level coursework. For some students who may not have seen themselves attending a two- or four-year university, that opportunity can be transformative.”
The recognition of these schools underscores Round Rock ISD’s ongoing commitment to providing access to challenging academic opportunities, ultimately ensuring that students are well-prepared for future success in higher education and beyond.
