These West Aurora Seniors Got Perfect ACT Scores

AURORA, IL — Two West Aurora High School rising seniors achieved perfect scores on the ACT, district officials announced.

Emerson Laufenberg and Joshua Hoecker each got composite scores of 36 on the standardized exam used for college admissions.

Less than one quarter of 1 percent of test takers across the United States score perfectly on the ACT, according to a news release from West Aurora School District 129. Of the nationwide Class of 2024, 3,041 out of 1.37 million students reached this benchmark.

The ACT is a curriculum-based achievement exam that measures academic readiness for college, with tests in English, mathematics, reading and science. Composite scores are calculated by averaging the four section scores, each on a scale of 1 to 36. Scores are accepted by all major colleges and universities in the United States and play a role in admissions, scholarship awards and course placement decisions.

"Earning a perfect ACT score is truly an exceptional accomplishment that reflects dedication, focus, and academic excellence," West Aurora High School Principal Whitney Martino said in a statement. "Achieving a top score on the ACT is so impressive, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work. This success also highlights the strength of West Aurora School District’s commitment to academic preparation, rigorous instruction, and continuous support from teachers, staff, and families."