SAA is a Platinum Level AP School: What does that mean?

We’re proud at SAA to be recognized as a Platinum Level AP School, an honor that reflects over 25 years of dedication to academic excellence. This prestigious designation is awarded to a select group of schools by the College Board, and it places SAA among the top tier of Advanced Placement (AP) programs in the United States and Canada. But what does it mean to be a Platinum Level AP School, and why should it matter to students and families? Let’s explore the significance of this recognition, the benefits it offers, and how SAA’s AP program equips students for success in college and beyond.

Key Takeaways

Key Point	Description
Platinum Level AP School	SAA is recognized by the College Board as a Platinum Level AP School, placing it among the top tier of AP programs in the US and Canada.
Inclusive AP Access	Open enrollment policies ensure that all motivated students, regardless of their academic background, can participate in AP courses.
Proven Academic Success	Over 50% of SAA students score 3 or higher on AP exams, earning college credit and demonstrating strong academic performance.
Advanced College Preparation	AP courses at SAA develop critical skills essential for college success, such as writing, analysis, and problem-solving.
Comprehensive Support System	SAA’s dedicated teachers, small class sizes, and supportive community ensure personalized attention and student success in AP programs.

What Is a Platinum Level AP School?

The Platinum Level AP School designation is part of the AP School Honor Roll, an initiative by the College Board to celebrate schools that excel in expanding access to AP courses while achieving high performance. Schools at the Platinum level meet rigorous benchmarks in three areas:

College Participation Culture:
- At least 80% of graduates take one or more AP exams during their high school years.
College Credit Readiness:
- At least 50% of students score a 3 or higher on an AP exam, which qualifies them for college credit at many institutions.
Advanced Engagement:
- At least 15% of graduates take five or more AP exams, demonstrating their ability to excel in multiple college-level subjects.

SAA’s AP program meets and exceeds these standards, solidifying our reputation as a leader in academic preparation.

What Does It Mean for SAA Students?

Being a Platinum Level AP School means that SAA is committed to providing:

Access for All Students
- At SAA, we believe that AP courses should be accessible to all motivated students, not just a select few. Our open enrollment policy encourages students of diverse academic backgrounds to take on the challenge of AP coursework.
Supportive Learning Environment
- Our small class sizes and dedicated teachers ensure personalized attention, helping every student succeed in their AP journey.
Proven Results
- Over 50% of SAA students consistently score a 3 or higher on their AP exams, earning college credit and recognition for their hard work.

The Benefits of Attending a Platinum Level AP School

Advanced College Preparation AP courses at SAA help students develop critical skills in writing, analysis, and problem-solving—skills that are essential for college success. Research by the College Board shows that students who participate in AP programs are more likely to:
- Graduate from college on time.
- Earn higher GPAs in college courses.
- Succeed in advanced majors like STEM, business, and the humanities.
Significant Cost Savings AP credits earned at SAA can translate to tuition savings by allowing students to skip introductory college courses. This benefit saves families thousands of dollars while enabling students to graduate earlier.
Enhanced College Applications Colleges and universities value AP courses as evidence of a student’s academic rigor and readiness for higher education. Graduates from Platinum Level AP Schools like SAA stand out in competitive admissions processes.
Comprehensive Subject Offerings SAA offers a wide range of AP courses, ensuring students can explore their interests while building a strong academic foundation. See a full list of the AP course offerings at SAA.

The SAA Difference: A Legacy of Excellence

SAA’s distinction as a Platinum Level AP School didn’t happen overnight. Over the past 25 years, we’ve built a program that prioritizes:

Academic Growth: Our AP courses challenge students to think critically and apply their knowledge to real-world problems.
Teacher Expertise: SAA’s AP teachers are passionate about their subjects and skilled at helping students succeed.
Community Support: From counselors to parents, the entire SAA community plays a role in supporting students on their AP journey.

By the Numbers: AP Success at SAA

100% College Acceptance: Every SAA student who participates in our AP program gains acceptance to college.
Thousands of Dollars Saved: On average, SAA students can save up to $5,000 in college tuition costs by earning AP credits.
50% Scoring 3 or Higher: Half of our students earn AP exam scores that qualify them for college credit, exceeding national averages.
Over 25 Years of Excellence: SAA has consistently grown its AP offerings, becoming a Platinum leader in Advanced Placement education.

FAQs About Platinum Level AP Schools

How does SAA support students in AP courses?

SAA offers personalized support, including small class sizes, teacher mentorship, and access to study resources like practice exams and peer study groups.

Do all students need to take the AP exam?

While taking the AP exam is encouraged to earn college credit, SAA students also receive high school credit for completing the AP course, which reflects their hard work and growth.

What colleges recognize AP credits?

Most colleges and universities in the United States accept AP credits. Policies vary, so students should check the requirements of their target schools.

Take the Next Step

Sacramento Adventist Academy’s Platinum Level AP Program is more than a badge of honor—it’s a gateway to academic achievement and lifelong success. With a legacy of excellence and a proven track record, SAA is committed to helping every student reach their full potential.

Ready to learn more about what sets SAA apart? Visit our AP Program to explore your AP options.