Three Forsyth County high schools have been honored for their students' performance on Advanced Placement exams.

The state Department of Education named North, South and West Forsyth as AP Merit Schools, meaning at least 20 percent of students at each school take AP exams and at least half of those score 3 or higher on them.

According to a statement from the department, AP classes offer college-level learning options to high schoolers, and those who score between a 3 and 5 on the exams may receive college credit.

Forsyth County Schools Superintendent Buster Evans said local high school students are offered a wide variety of AP classes to prepare them for college.

"Our students and staff at our high schools are to be congratulated for receiving state recognition for their participation and academic excellence," he said. "Overall, our percentage of students enrolled in AP courses, taking AP exams and receiving higher scores has increased over the last five years."

State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox said Georgia is making progress with AP offerings, not only in the number of students attending the classes, but in those who are successful.

"Much of that progress comes from the dedication to rigor and excellence at each of our AP honor schools," she said.

The 2009 AP honor schools were chosen based on the results of 2007-08 AP classes and exams.

They were named in three categories: AP Challenge Schools, AP Access and Support Schools and AP Merit Schools.

More than 80 schools were honored statewide.