Several Richmond County School System (RCSS) high schools achieved their highest SAT scores in five years, with notable gains in mathematics and reading and writing, according to 2026 results released by the College Board. SAT participation also increased by more than 8% as the school system expanded access to test preparation and academic support. 

“Improving student achievement takes intentional planning, targeted support and a commitment to doing the work every day,” said Dr. Malinda Cobb, superintendent of schools. “We are working closely with our schools to identify areas of need, strengthen instruction and give students more opportunities to prepare for success.” 

T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School recorded the largest overall increase in the school system, improving by 48 points to a five-year high of 853. Glenn Hills High School increased by 43 points to 881, also reaching a five-year high. The Academy of Richmond County (ARC) improved by 24 points to 1,016, exceeding the national average of 1,011. 

The improvements follow a systemwide focus on SAT preparation, including school-specific action plans targeting academic needs and at least one SAT preparation course offered at every high school. RCSS also introduced Test Tip Tuesday, an initiative incorporating PSAT- and SAT-style practice questions into mathematics and English language arts classrooms in grades 6-12. 

Lucy C. Laney Comprehensive High School increased its SAT math score by 50 points, while Josey and Glenn Hills improved their reading and writing scores by 36 and 31 points, respectively, with all three schools reaching five-year highs in those subjects. 

John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School and A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School exceeded state and national SAT averages, scoring 1,164 and 1,075, respectively. 

SAT participation increased from 643 students in 2025 to 697 in 2026. RCSS will continue using assessment results to strengthen instruction, target academic support and prepare students for success after graduation.