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Massachusetts leads K-12 rankings while Oregon lags in 2025 education report

Why do some states excel while others fall behind? The latest data reveals how funding, class sizes, and mental health support shape student success—or failure.

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In this picture, we see the poster containing the college of the cartoons. We see some text written on this poster.

Massachusetts leads K-12 rankings while Oregon lags in 2025 education report

A new national study reveals stark differences in K-12 education across the United States. Massachusetts leads in performance, while Oregon sits at the bottom of the rankings. The findings also highlight a troubling decline in test scores nationwide, according to the latest data from 2025.

Massachusetts tops the list with an average ACT score of 26.4, a 90% graduation rate, and a dropout rate of just 3.7%. Officials credit the state’s success to smaller class sizes and stable staffing in schools. Long-term funding and consistent policies have also played a key role in maintaining high standards.

Virginia follows closely in second place, recording an ACT score of 24.6, an 89% graduation rate, and a dropout rate of 3.5%. Both states have invested heavily in mental health support and anti-bullying initiatives, which researchers link to better student engagement and performance.

At the other end of the scale, Oregon ranks last. The state’s class of 2023-24 achieved an 81% graduation rate, with an SAT average of 1,117 and an ACT score of 20.9. Its dropout rate stands at 6.3%, the highest among all listed states. The Oregon Department of Education confirmed these figures in December 2025.

Nationally, the picture remains bleak. The National Assessment of Educational Progress reports that test scores have hit historic lows across all K-12 levels. Education Secretary Linda McMahon described the results as deeply concerning, urging states to rethink their approaches to teaching and support.

The study underscores a clear divide between states with steady school investments and those with inconsistent policies. Top performers like Massachusetts and Virginia show how smaller classes, staff stability, and mental health resources can lift outcomes. Meanwhile, Oregon’s lower rankings point to ongoing challenges in student retention and academic achievement.

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