Connecticut Schools Rank Third Nationally As State Works Toward Further Improvement

• Connecticut ranked third in the nation for public education in a new analysis, trailing only Massachusetts and New York, on the strength of its test scores, graduation rates and school funding

• The report found Connecticut’s higher education system lagged behind its K-12 system, citing high tuition costs, a gap the state is now studying through a school funding review

• State officials also launched a new training program this summer aimed at closing a shortage of paraeducators, particularly in special education classrooms

With August’s arrival meaning schools return to class in coming weeks, Connecticut earned yet another high ranking for its education system as state leaders continue committing resources to improve its standing further.

According to Consumer Affairs’ recent publication of the Best States for Public Education, Connecticut landed at third in the nation overall behind Massachusetts and New York for the quality of its public education system.

Connecticut rose to the top due to its strong academic outcomes, including the highest average standardized test score in the country and one of the nation’s highest high school graduation rates.

The state also received high marks for its K-12 spending. While some complaints circulate about the state’s municipal funding strategies, Connecticut’s spending per student ranked fifth nationally, as did teacher pay. Consumer Affairs noted the state is currently in the process of a full review of its K-12 funding, with claims the current funding formula is outdated and results expected by the end of the year.

While this recognition is a sign that Connecticut’s education system is a model for the rest of the state to follow, leaders are focused on further improving the system.

The state recently unveiled the Paraeducator Preparation Academy, a six-week training course supporting instruction and mentorship for aspiring paraeducators, the Hartford Courant reported.

Through this, the state seeks to directly reduce or close the workforce gap for paraeducators that will lead to better one-on-one support for students in need, especially students with disabilities. The Preparation Academy will provide free materials, in-person instruction and practice tests for aspiring educators.

By Joe O’Leary