The Top 10 Education State Rankings of 2021: Which States Came Out on Top?

The Top 10 Education State Rankings of 2021: Which States Came Out on Top?

As parents and students gear up for the new academic year, it’s important to take a closer look at how states have been performing in terms of education. The year 2020 witnessed unprecedented changes in the education landscape, with the COVID-19 pandemic forcing schools and colleges to migrate to online learning models. Now, as we get accustomed to the new normal, it’s time to evaluate how each state performed in the education sector in 2021.

1. Massachusetts

For the second year in a row, Massachusetts has been crowned America’s education champion. The state has consistently maintained its position as the top-scoring state in Education Week’s annual report card. This year, Massachusetts scored an impressive B+ grade and bagged the top spot with high marks for academic achievement, school finance, and opportunities for lifelong learning.

2. New Jersey

New Jersey took second place, with the state’s education system earning a solid B grade. One of the key contributing factors was the state’s significant improvements in school finance and academic achievement. Additionally, high school graduation rates in the state have increased, reflecting the success of campaigns to reduce dropout rates across the state.

3. Vermont

Coming in at third place is Vermont, with an overall grade of B. The state scored high in kindergarten enrollment and pre-k education, as well as spending on education per student. Vermont’s strong focus on academic standards for students and high preschool enrollment rates played a key role in helping the state achieve its position.

4. New Hampshire

New Hampshire takes the fourth spot on our list, with an overall grade of B. This is largely attributed to the state’s significant improvements in school finance, academic achievement, and high school graduation rates. The state’s focus on research-based education and commitment to education innovation has positioned it as a strong performer in the education sector.

5. Maine

Despite Maine’s struggles with low college readiness rates and high student-to-teacher ratios, the state managed to earn an overall grade of B-. The state’s strong performances in education finance and strong policies aimed at school accountability and academic standards contributed to Maine’s position in the top five education states.

6. Virginia

Virginia came in as the sixth-highest-ranking education state with an overall grade of B-. The state scored high in school finance, spending significantly more per student than many of its peers. Virginia’s strong focus on access to high-quality early education and career and technical training offerings has contributed to the state’s status as a leader in education.

7. Maryland

Maryland earned an overall grade of B-, coming in seventh on our list. The state’s focus on accountability, teacher quality, and early education have helped it achieve strong scores in academic achievement and school finance. The state’s innovative approach to education has resulted in more rigorous academic standards, ensuring Maryland students are prepared for college and careers.

8. Connecticut

Connecticut takes the eighth spot thanks to its above-average spending on education, with a B- grade. The state scored high in academic achievement and college readiness, with its high school graduation rates ranking among the highest in the country. Connecticut’s focus on data-driven decision-making has contributed to its position as a high-performing education state.

9. Delaware

Delaware takes ninth place on our list, earning an overall grade of C+. Despite its small size, Delaware has managed to make significant strides in improving access to high-quality education for students. The state’s high school graduation rates have improved, and it’s benefiting from funding aimed at strengthening teacher quality and supporting struggling schools.

10. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania takes the final spot on our list, with an overall grade of C+. The state’s high scores in preschool enrollment and kindergarten quality couldn’t offset its struggles with college readiness and low academic achievement. However, the state’s ongoing commitment to public education, particularly with recent investments in teacher professional development, is positioning Pennsylvania for improvement in future reports.

Conclusion

Overall, the Education Week report card for 2021 highlights the ongoing efforts by states to improve access to high-quality education. While several states have demonstrated consistent performances year on year, others continue to struggle. Despite the challenges, the commitment to improving education standards across the country is evident, and states are taking an innovative and proactive approach to address existing gaps.

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