Springfield, IL – (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Illinois has switched students from the SAT to the ACT. But Jamar Scott, District 186‘s chief equity and school improvement officer, does not buy into criticism that the tests are not fair to children of all backgrounds.

“I think it’s a matter of preparation,” said Scott. “If students are adequately prepared, I firmly feel that there is no demographic that cannot do well on either test.”

But how are the tests at predicting college success?

“The 22 composite score (on the ACT) is a predictor that you will make it into your sophomore year” of college, said Scott, “with no failing grades. There is some data behind that that demonstrates that to be true.”

The district has purchased test preparation books for all high school juniors.