The number and performance of Minnesota students taking advanced placement tests increased for the fifth year in a row.

However, Albert Lea High School students aren’t using the AP tests because they participate in college classes at the school.

“We have a very small number taking AP classes,” Albert Lea High School Principal Al Root said.

New data showed an almost 8 percent increase in the number of Minnesota students taking the test. More students also scored higher on the exams, according to the Minnesota Department of Education.

The increase in students taking AP tests has been consistent with the Get Ready Get Credit program proposed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty that was passed by state Legislature in 2005. The part of the program about getting credit has emphasized that students try to receive college credit while in high school through AP and other programs.

Root said more than 200 students participate in college in the schools, instead. With AP classes students have to take a test at the end of the year that determines what college credit they can receive. Most students opt to take college in the schools courses, which are provided in conjunction with Riverland Community College. Teachers at the high school with master’s degrees can teach college-level courses, and students can receive up to 40 college credits through this program.

“It keeps our students in the building,” Root said.

Albert Lea currently has the college in the school’s program that students take advantage of.

Mary Williams, director of teaching and learning for Albert Lea’s school district, said this information isn’t pertinent to Albert Lea because few students take the AP tests.

“Most students take advantage of the college in the schools,” Williams said.