Best and Worst States for Education in 2022: Rankings by State

As the new academic year begins, parents, students, and educators alike are curious to know how their state ranks in terms of the quality of education provided. The quality of education varies significantly from state to state, with some states performing significantly better than others. In this article, we will delve into the best and worst states for education in 2022 and the factors that make them stand out.

Top 5 States for Education

1. Massachusetts
Massachusetts tops the list of the best states for education in 2022. The state invests significantly in its education system, with a per-pupil expenditure of around $28,000. The state’s school system emphasizes student-centered learning, providing teachers with the resources they need to offer students a well-rounded education. Massachusetts had the highest average ACT and SAT scores in the country, making it an obvious choice for students seeking a quality education.

2. New Jersey
New Jersey ranks second in the country for education, with high scores across multiple categories. The state has a high high-school graduation rate, with 94.5% of students graduating on time. New Jersey is also known for its low student-to-teacher ratio and consistently high standardized test scores.

3. Vermont
Vermont is another state renowned for its high-quality education system. The state invests heavily in its education, spending around $20,000 per student. Vermont also has a strong sense of community and a highly collaborative school system that engages parents and educators to work together to provide children with the best possible education.

4. New Hampshire
New Hampshire ranks fourth among the best states for education, with some of the highest test scores in the country. The state has strong academic standards and is known for its personalized learning programs. New Hampshire is home to several top-notch colleges and universities, making it an excellent choice for students looking to continue their education after high school.

5. Connecticut
Connecticut rounds out the top five states for education in 2022. The state’s education system emphasizes a well-rounded education for students, with a strong focus on STEM education. Connecticut’s standardized test scores rank among the highest in the nation, and the state’s graduation rate is consistently above the national average.

The Bottom Five States for Education

1. Mississippi
Mississippi remains at the bottom of the list of states for education, with a graduation rate of just 84.8%. The state’s test scores have consistently been among the lowest in the country, and the state’s per-pupil expenditure is among the lowest in the nation.

2. Alabama
Alabama ranks second from the bottom in educational rankings. The state has a high poverty rate, which contributes to low education rankings. Additionally, the state’s graduation rate sits at just 87.1%, significantly below the national average.

3. Louisiana
Louisiana ranks poorly in most educational categories, with low test scores and a high student-to-teacher ratio. The state’s graduation rate is just 84.6%, and its per-student spending is well below the national average.

4. West Virginia
West Virginia has a low high-school graduation rate, with just 89.4% of students graduating on time. The state’s test scores are consistently among the lowest in the country, and the per-pupil spending is below the national average.

5. New Mexico
New Mexico rounds out the bottom five states for education, with a graduation rate of just 76.9%. The state’s test scores are among the lowest in the country, and the per-pupil spending is also low.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the quality of education varies significantly from state to state. While some states invest heavily in education and have high graduation rates and impressive test scores, others struggle to provide their students with a quality education. It’s crucial for students, parents, and educators to be aware of their state’s education ranking and to advocate for an education system that values every child’s education. As the new academic year begins, let’s hope for a promising year in education.