The average score for the system was 498 on the verbal portion of the test and 514 on the math portion, for a total of 1012, principal David Shumake said Monday.

He said the scores are based on 154 students taking the test.

In 2001, with 115 students taking the test, the score was 494 on the verbal portion and 496 on the math portion for a total 990.

"We're very pleased with (the increase), but we still have a lot of work to do," Shumake said.

Gainesville's 2002 scores were above the state average but below the national average.

The scores at Hall County's six high schools were released earlier this month.