New Jersey Ranked Number One for Education Nationwide

New Jersey has secured the top spot in education nationwide, according to the 2025 Best States for Education rankings released by U.S. News & World Report on Monday. The Garden State earned the highest overall score across metrics measuring K-12 achievement, college readiness, and educational equity, marking the first time the state has claimed the number one position in the report’s history, according to NJ.com.

The prestigious recognition comes after years of New Jersey placing consistently among the top five states for education quality. State officials attribute the achievement to strategic investments in teacher development, curriculum innovation, and targeted programs aimed at closing achievement gaps in historically underperforming districts.

Metrics Behind the Top Ranking

New Jersey achieved the highest composite score based on 14 key metrics measuring both current student performance and long-term educational outcomes. The state ranked first in math and reading test scores, with 86% of fourth-graders and 83% of eighth-graders demonstrating proficiency in reading – both significantly above national averages.

“These results reflect our state’s comprehensive approach to education,” said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, New Jersey Education Commissioner. “We’ve focused on evidence-based practices, maintained reasonable class sizes, and ensured strong preparation and ongoing support for our teachers.”

The ranking highlighted New Jersey’s impressive 91% high school graduation rate and the fact that 72% of high school students take at least one Advanced Placement exam before graduation, with 68% of those students earning scores qualifying for college credit. According to Education Week, the state also demonstrated among the smallest achievement gaps based on socioeconomic status, though racial disparities remain a focus for improvement.

Investment in Education

Consistent financial commitment to education emerged as a key factor in New Jersey’s success. The state ranks second nationally in per-pupil spending at approximately $24,300, behind only New York, with a school funding formula designed to provide additional resources to districts serving disadvantaged populations.

“New Jersey has maintained its investment in education even during challenging fiscal periods,” noted James Wilson, education policy analyst at the New Jersey Policy Perspective. “This consistent funding has allowed districts to implement long-term improvement strategies and develop innovative programs that might not be possible with more volatile funding.”

The U.S. News analysis specifically credited the state’s school funding approach, which allocates resources based on student need rather than property tax revenue alone, as a significant factor in improving outcomes across diverse communities. The state has increased education funding by approximately 28% over the past five years, with targeted investments in early childhood education, STEM programs, and mental health services.

Teacher Quality and Retention

Another distinguishing factor in New Jersey’s educational success is its ability to attract and retain highly qualified teachers. The state ranks among the top three nationally for teacher compensation, with an average salary of $86,500, and has implemented comprehensive professional development programs designed to support educator growth and effectiveness.

“Teacher quality is the single most important school-based factor in student achievement,” said Jennifer Martinez, president of the New Jersey Education Association. “Our state has recognized this through competitive compensation, strong benefits, and creating working conditions that allow teachers to focus on student learning.”

The report noted that 61% of New Jersey teachers hold advanced degrees, compared to the national average of 43%, and the state’s teacher retention rate exceeds the national average by 9 percentage points. This stability in the teaching workforce provides schools with experienced educators and instructional continuity that benefits students.

District Spotlight: Success Stories

Several New Jersey school districts received special recognition in the report for exceptional performance and innovative approaches. Elizabeth Public Schools was highlighted for its dramatic improvement in graduation rates over the past decade, while Princeton Regional Schools earned praise for its interdisciplinary curriculum and integration of computational thinking across subject areas.

“These districts exemplify what’s possible when communities prioritize education,” Rodriguez said. “They’ve developed approaches tailored to their specific student populations while maintaining high expectations for all learners.”

The report also recognized Newark Public Schools for significant progress in student achievement following years of challenges. According to Asbury Park Press, Newark has seen a 23-percentage point increase in its graduation rate since 2015 and substantial gains in reading and math proficiency among elementary and middle school students.

Challenges and Future Focus

Despite the top ranking, state education officials acknowledge that significant challenges remain. Achievement gaps, while narrower than in many states, persist between white students and their Black and Hispanic peers. Access to advanced coursework also varies by district, with ongoing efforts to expand opportunities for all students regardless of zip code.

“This recognition is cause for celebration, but we view it as motivation to address remaining inequities in our system,” Commissioner Rodriguez emphasized. “Every student in New Jersey deserves access to an excellent education, and we still have disparities that require focused attention and resources.”

Governor Lisa Martinez announced that the state will use the momentum from the ranking to launch several new initiatives, including an expanded early literacy program, additional mental health resources in schools, and a statewide effort to strengthen science and technology education beginning in elementary grades.

“This ranking reflects years of dedication from our educators, families, and students,” Martinez said. “We’re committed to building on this foundation to ensure New Jersey remains a national leader in educational excellence and innovation.”