With reading scores declining nationwide and uneven math progress amid inflation and economic uncertainty, WalletHub released its 2025 report on the best and worst school systems in the U.S. The study compares all 50 states plus the District of Columbia across 32 measures of quality and safety, including pupil-teacher ratio, dropout rates, and standardized test scores.
Massachusetts ranks first, followed by Connecticut, New Jersey, Virginia, and New Hampshire. At the bottom are New Mexico, Oklahoma, Alaska, Arizona, and Oregon. Notably, West Virginia boasts the lowest dropout rate, which is nearly three times lower than in the District of Columbia, where dropout rates are the highest. Vermont has the lowest pupil-teacher ratio, contrasting sharply with Arizona’s high ratio. Delaware records the lowest incidents of students threatened or injured with weapons at school, while the District of Columbia reports the lowest share of students bullied online.
Chip Lupo, WalletHub analyst, commented, “Getting enough funding is essential for a productive school system, but simply having more money doesn’t guarantee success. How funds are applied also plays a big role… In addition, schools need to focus not just on test scores but also on making sure that students feel safe, comfortable and cared for.” He highlighted Massachusetts’ top ranking, noting its high AP exam scores and relatively low reports of violence and drug availability on school grounds.
Experts emphasize that per-pupil spending explains only part of school quality variation. Rosemary Salomone, professor at St. John’s University, noted that cost-of-living differences and student needs must be considered. “Additional funds allocated to schools can improve academic performance but only if those funds are well spent,” she said, pointing to teacher salaries, facilities, and innovative curricula as key investments.
Jill Channing, associate professor at East Tennessee State University, added that while funding is important, governance, community engagement, and policy coherence also influence school performance. She referenced a 2016 study showing that sustained increases in per-pupil spending significantly improve outcomes, especially for low-income students.
On improving schools without raising taxes, experts advise reallocating funds effectively, investing in teacher support, and using data-driven decisions. Jamie Kudlats from UNC Charlotte stressed the importance of reducing administrative burdens and prioritizing teacher development.
Regarding the role of schools relative to family and community, Ashlyn Aiko Nelson of Indiana University explained that schools account for about 30% of variation in student outcomes, with teacher quality being paramount. Jill Channing further noted that schools interact dynamically with family and neighborhood factors, serving as vital support but not a replacement for stable home environments.
For the full report and state rankings, visit WalletHub’s website.