Minnesota high school students in the Class of 2012 did slightly better than average when it came to taking and passing Advanced Placement classes.
The classes, when taken and passed in high school, can be used for college credit later on.
The College Board's The 9th Annual AP Report to the Nation shows that 19.7% of Minnesota students passed an AP exam, with a score of 3 or higher.
That national average was 19.5%. Wisconsin was 20.6%.
The report shows that Minnesota has done considerably better over the years, with 9.8% getting scores of 3 or higher in 2002, 13.1% in 2007 and 18.3% in 2011.
Minnesota Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius said in a statement that while she's pleased with the report, there's more work to be done.
"Several years ago, a call went out to Minnesota schools asking them to step up their efforts to ensure their students graduate college and career ready. The Legislature provided resources and educators provided the urgency.
"Today we have evidence that shows they have answered that call. These new results show more students are taking advanced placement classes; even better, they are passing the tests and earning credits. We are seeing increased success for nearly all of our students, furthering our efforts to close achievement gaps and expand access to higher education opportunities.
We know there is still much more work to do, but this report indicates we are moving in the right direction. We must continue this forward momentum, working until every student graduates with the skills they need to succeed in college, career and life."