RANGELY — Michael Morton, son of David and Carol Morton of Rangely and a homeschooled senior, demonstrated he is well prepared for college by earning the top composite score of 36 on the ACT college admissions and placement exam.
The curriculum-based achievement exam helps determine a student’s ability to successfully take on challenging college-level coursework.
Typically, less than one-tenth of 1 percent of all test takers earn the top composite score. Michael was the only Colorado student to earn a 36 during the October 2008 test date.
The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science. Each test is scored on a scale of 1-36.
The average composite score for the national high school graduating class of 2008 was 21.1 out of 36. Some students also take ACT’s optional writing test, but the score for that test is reported separately and is not included in the ACT composite score.
In a letter recognizing this exceptional achievement, ACT Chief Executive Director Richard L. Ferguson pointed out that Michael should have the choice of the widest possible range of future education options. ACT scores are accepted by all U.S. colleges and universities.