Analysis of Child Education by State

In a recent analysis by WalletHub, the best and worst public school systems across the United States have been ranked, providing valuable insights for parents seeking quality education for their children. The study evaluated 32 key metrics, including performance, funding, safety, class size, and instructor credentials. Connecticut emerged as a standout, securing the second position, with Governor Ned Lamont highlighting the state's exemplary teachers and their dedication to student success. Wisconsin, ranked fifth, also received commendation from interim superintendent Cale Bushman, who emphasized the state's excellent educational opportunities and strong family involvement. The analysis placed significant weight on quality indicators, such as math and reading test scores, dropout rates, and the percentage of licensed teachers. Notably, states in the northeast, including Connecticut, have historically led in per-pupil spending, while western and southern states tend to spend less. Connecticut's educational achievements were underscored by its top ACT scores and a high percentage of students scoring well on Advanced Placement exams. The state also excelled in safety metrics, reporting the lowest presence of illegal drugs on campuses and a low youth incarceration rate. Conversely, West Virginia, despite ranking 46th overall, boasted the lowest dropout rate, while Tennessee ranked 32nd. The report also revealed discrepancies in rankings versus performance, with Delaware and Florida showing low test scores despite higher overall rankings. Experts suggest that local insights are crucial for assessing educational quality, urging voters to consider candidates' positions on education policies ahead of the upcoming elections.