November 1, 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As some of you are aware, the Illinois School Board of Education will once again use the ACT as the high school accountability assessment. The ACT includes multiple-choice tests in four areas: English, mathematics, reading, & science, as well as a writing section for all Illinois high schools.  Batavia High School will administer the ACT to juniors in April and the Pre-ACT to freshmen and sophomores in March. 

Please note: The ACT for juniors serves as the state’s accountability assessment and is required for graduation in order to receive a high school diploma. All juniors must take the ACT in April, even if they have already taken the ACT on a national testing date. No registration is required.

More detailed information, including testing day requirements and expectations for remote learning, will be sent to students closer to the test date. The testing dates are as follows:

March 18th APRIL 22nd
Freshmen:  In-Person: PreACT 8/9 Freshmen:  Remote Learning
Sophomores:  In-Person: PreACT Sophomores:  Remote Learning
Juniors:   Remote Learning Juniors:   In-person: ACT
SENIORS:  Remote Learning
  • MasteryPrep:  Batavia High School is excited to share that all students (freshmen to juniors) will have access to MasteryPrep, a comprehensive ACT preparation program designed to build skills, confidence, and readiness for the exam.
    • MasteryPrep provides students with targeted practice in English, mathematics, reading, and science. Some courses will incorporate MasteryPrep activities during class time this year as part of the curriculum, while students also have the option to access the program at home for additional practice and preparation.  This access allows students the flexibility to review lessons, complete practice tests, and strengthen their skills at their own pace.

Additional ACT Prep Resources

  • Varsity Tutors:  Varsity Tutors offers a comprehensive set of tools to help students prepare for the ACT. The platform provides full-length practice exams covering all test sections—English, Reading, Math, and Science—allowing students to become familiar with the test format and timing.
    • Students can also access embedded flashcards in a variety of subjects, including reading, writing, grammar, algebra, biology, and physics, to support focused review. A standout feature is the “Learn by Concept” tool, which allows students to answer practice questions and view detailed explanations for each response, reinforcing understanding of key topics.
  • For targeted practice, students can focus on specific ACT sections, such as English or Math, and even create custom flashcards for a more personalized study experience. Additionally, students who would like extra support can connect with a tutor directly through the app for one-on-one ACT prep assistance. Learn how to sign up for Varsity Tutors 
  • Free Practice ACT at BHS:  A free, full-length practice ACT will be administered at Batavia High School in early February. More details and a sign-up form will be shared once the event is finalized.
  • Online ACT Resources:  A variety of free online resources—including test-taking tips, practice tests, and study guides—are available through the following sites:
  • ExcelEdge ACT Prep Classes:  Batavia High School will again offer ExcelEdge ACT Prep Classes in January and February. These classes meet once a week for two hours over eight weeks, covering all five ACT test areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, and Writing. Juniors will also take a full-length practice ACT at the conclusion of the course.  Please note: There will be a cost associated with ExcelEdge. More details will be shared once finalized.

Our goal is to ensure every student feels confident and well-prepared for the ACT in April. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,

Bob Dietz
Associate Principal

UPCOMING EVENTS


Winter Wonderland Concert

Tuesday, Dec 9th

Winter Finals - Half Day of School

Friday, Dec 19th 7:35am

Best Buddies Holiday Wrapping Fundraiser

Sunday, Dec 21st 1:00pm

Let Best Buddies wrap all of your holiday gifts! Bring your unwrapped gifts and let Best Buddies add elegant bows, festive wrapping, and a creative touch. Please enter BHS on the Main Street side of the school and head to the Main Gym. For additional info, please contact: sarah.mcewen@bps101.net danielle.lodge@bps101.net amy.healy@bps101.net

Batavia High School