Public education quality varies widely across the United States. A new WalletHub report ranks school systems across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., using 32 metrics that measure academic performance, safety, class size, teacher credentials and access to technology.
Massachusetts ranked first, followed by Connecticut. New Jersey earned third place.
New Jersey students scored among the best in the nation. The state ranks second in reading and fifth in math for both fourth and eighth graders. It also ranks second for the share of students scoring at least a 3 on Advanced Placement exams.
Nearly 9 percent of New Jersey’s public schools rank among the top 700 nationwide, the third-highest share in the country.
New Jersey ranks seventh nationwide for student to teacher ratio, making digital resources vital for students. To support this, the state implemented a digital learning plan that helps integrate technology across classrooms and provides consistent access to educational tools.
Most families rely on public schools as private education remains out of reach for many. Rising costs and economic uncertainty put extra pressure on families and schools alike. According to the U.S. Department of Education, public school funding comes primarily from state and local governments, with the federal government providing a smaller share. WalletHub’s report suggests that increased funding and resources often lead to better academic results.
Overall, New Jersey’s ranking shows how targeted funding and planning can produce a public school system that delivers strong results even under pressure.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.