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SACRAMENTO – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell today issued the following statement regarding a new $3.5 million federal grant to help low-income students in California pay the fees for Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) tests.

"I hold high expectations for every student in California," O'Connell said. "I am pleased that this federal grant will help more students meet the high bar that AP and IB classes set. These programs challenge students and help prepare them for success in college. I encourage all students to take AP or IB courses. With this federal aid, we can encourage California students who might not otherwise be able to afford to pay for the exams to take these rigorous courses."

The U.S. Department of Education awarded the $3.5 million to California to cover part or all of the test fees for low-income students who are enrolled in an AP or IB class and plan to take an AP or IB tests.

Thirty-nine states were awarded a total of $11 million for this federal program. California received the largest share at $3,507,966. The California Department of Education (CDE) was formally notified of the grant award this week. CDE will distribute the funds to school districts to reimburse students who are eligible for this financial assistance.

The program aims to encourage low-income students to take AP or IB tests and obtain college credit for high school courses, reducing the time and cost required to complete a postsecondary degree.

For more information, please see: Department Awards $11 Million to 39 States to Help Pay Fees for Advanced Placement Tests [http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/03/03172008a.html] (Outside Source).