NJ Top Education State In Latest U.S. News Ranking

PRINCETON, NJ — New Jersey's public school system was ranked best in the country, according to a new ranking by U.S. News & World Report.

The publication’s 2021 Best States ranking placed New Jersey ahead of all states.

Gov. Phil Murphy said he was incredibly proud of this achievement.

“Investments in our students are investments in the future of our state, and I am incredibly proud that our schools have been ranked number one in the nation,” Murphy said in a news release.

“Today’s recognition by U.S. News & World Report proves that students across New Jersey—starting with our youngest learners—are given the opportunity to achieve long-term success. I would also like to thank the educators who work tirelessly to make sure that our students receive the best possible education.”

Last year, U.S. News and World Report ranked New Jersey’s schools at number two, behind Massachusetts.

Murphy’s recent budget allocates $578 million in additional K-12 school aid and nearly $50 million in additional preschool funding.

His four budgets will have increased direct pre-K through 12 spending statewide by nearly $1.5 billion.

In 2019 and 2020, Education Week ranked New Jersey’s schools as the top public-school system in America.

Read more about the ranking’s methodology here.