About 95 percent of Newton County School System students passed the writing portion of state tests on the first try for  2010-2011, which matches the state average.

According to a school system release, 1,191 Newton County students took the test earlier this year. Those who did not pass can retake the test in February. The test is typically taken in eleventh grade, but seniors who are new to Georgia must also take the assessment. Students are required to pass all components of the Georgia High School Graduation Test, including writing, in order to graduate.

Overall, 94 percent of Newton County students passed the test, according to Dr. Carl Skinner, director of Testing, Research and Evaluation for the school system.

Passing rates increased from the previous year for all schools.

Alcovy High School students showed the greatest improvement, with the pass rate jumping from 89 percent to 95 percent of the 398 students.

The pass rate improved from 90 percent to 95 percent at Newton High School, with 456 students taking the test.

 At Eastside High School, the pass rate increased 1 percent, to 95 percent, with 319 taking the test.

"This is good news we can build on as writing is so essential to a truly educated student," said Dr. Gary Mathews, superintendent of Newton County schools. "Given the significant improvements needed now in our college readiness indicators of ACT and SAT, these GHSGT writing scores are most encouraging and, I trust, a precursor to improved results in the future. Kudos to our students and faculty."