Greater numbers of high-school students are taking Advanced Placement (AP) examinations and are faring better on them than in the past, said a report released by the College Board. The board, a nonprofit association, administers 37 AP exams, which allow high-school students to earn college credit or exemption from introductory-level college…

Slight rises in average scores on mathematics and verbal sections of the Scholastic Aptitude Test are seen as a reason for cautious optimism about educational reform. Gaps between men and women, whites and African Americans still exist. Better college preparation is cited as responsible for score gains. (MSE)