Johnson City Schools leads region in 2024-25 ACT college readiness

Most local schools matched Tennessee's 99% statewide ACT participation rate, with some districts posting results above state college readiness benchmarks. According to recent data from the Tennessee Department of Education, 49.7% of Johnson City Schools students achieved the state's college readiness ACT score of 21 in the 2024-25 school year, surpassing the state average of 37.2%. The district reported a 99% participation rate and posted an average composite score of 20.8, beating the state average of 19.3. At nearby Washington County Schools, 39.1% of students scored 21 or above. The district had a 99% participation rate and an average composite score of 19.4. State education officials said this was the fourth consecutive year Tennessee schools achieved an average ACT participation rate of 99%. "We are committed to empowering every Tennessee student to participate in essential readiness programs like the ACT, ensuring they are fully prepared and confident in their postsecondary choices," Tennessee Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds said in a statement. "We are incredibly proud of our districts, schools, and public charters for their unwavering dedication to guiding students toward bright futures and for continually expanding educational opportunities for all." All regional districts maintained participation rates of at least 96%, according to the state's data. Statewide, 129 school districts met the 95% participation threshold in 2025, compared to 127 districts in 2024. Kingsport City Schools recorded an average composite score of 21, with 49.2% of students scoring 21 or above. Elizabethton City Schools had a 100% participation rate and an average composite score of 20 with 41.2% meeting the 21 benchmark. Sullivan County Schools reported an 18.7 average composite and 32.1% demonstrated college readiness. Carter County Schools recorded an 18.4 average composite score, with 27.9% of students demonstrating college readiness. Unicoi County Schools posted an 18.6 average composite score with 32% meeting or exceeding the 21 benchmark.