Special to
L’Observateur

EDGARD — Juniors and seniors spent Feb. 5 getting their minds in shape for college entrance exams during an ACT Boot Camp at West St. John High School.

The school partnered with Mastery Prep to bring the Boot Camp to the gym, where students reviewed strategies for the test areas of English, math, science and reading and took practice tests in those subjects.

“We try to make sure our students know they can’t just show up and pass,” Principal Erica Merrick said. “They have to prepare.”

The state requires seniors to score at least an 18 on the ACT to receive a TOPS scholarship for a two-year technical or community college. To receive a TOPS scholarship to a four-year college or university, seniors must earn at least a 20 on the test.

Last year, West St. John High’s students averaged an 18.2 on the test.

“We did really well last year, but we want to make sure 100 percent of our students pass the test,” Merrick said. “The ACT is the best ticket to get into college and we want all of our kids to have that opportunity.”