ACT scores lost from Upper Darby

Update: the ACT scores have been found.

LM juniors and seniors anxiously awaiting their ACT scores from the September test at Upper Darby High School may not get them...ever. On September 13, stu- dents took the test, and, after weeks of waiting, ACT confirmed on October 15 that the scores were lost. It is not clear whether or not the scores will be recovered, as the ACT is still investigating the matter; however, the two weeks of searching have yielded nothing. 182 students’ scores were lost because the test administra- tor from Upper Darby sent the scores through the post office instead of through FedEx, breaching correct procedure.

For LM seniors, the problem goes beyond just re- taking the test. To those with early decision and early action deadlines that are in the beginning or middle of November, these tests were the last chance to improve scores before sending them to colleges. Many students and parents are perturbed that ACT waited weeks before notifying students of the delay. Students who don’t want to retake the test can get a refund, but there is no way to retake the ACT before certain application deadlines. Seniors will also get a letter, which they can include in their college applications that explains the situation, but many do not think this makes up for the fumble

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Several seniors are now being forced to submit an old SAT or ACT score that they feel may not be adequate to be accepted to their dream school. This situation is caus- ing increased stress for students already overloaded with the stresses of schoolwork and college applications.

In fact, for many students, the situation is their worst fear come true. Months spent studying, money for overpriced tutors, and the rigorous three hours of testing are all for naught if the scores are never recovered. Senior Jordan Shub tweeted,“The night before the ACTs I said my biggest fear was them losing my test and that’s exactly what happened.” Senior Danny Avershal took the ACT on September 13 and said that he felt “irritated, confused, and frustrated, like me at the end of National Treasure.” More seriously, he continued, “I hate to use the word unfair but [it’s] unfair. Not even because of the inconvenience in time but the possibility that I may have to endure another awful ACT.” Upper Darby HS is also distressed by the situation. While many are blaming the lost scores on the school, Dana Spino, spokeswoman for the Upper Darby School District, states, “It’s an ACT issue. We’re just a testing location.”

ACT could still redeem itself if the scores are found, but it seems unlikely. Juniors can retake the test, but seniors will have to make due with their previous scores and a letter of apology.

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