For the second consecutive year, New Jersey was ranked number one in the nation in the annual “Quality Counts” report card issued by the Education Week Research Center on Sept. 3. The state’s overall rating was 87.3 out of a possible 100; Massachusetts, which finished second, was rated at 86.7. The report card grades states using a variety of academic, school finance and socioeconomic indicators.

Education Week gave New Jersey high marks for its commitment to funding public schools, and how its students perform in the classroom and after graduation.

“We are pleased that the hard work of New Jersey’s board members, superintendents, staff and students has been recognized by this prestigious ranking,” said Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod, NJSBA executive director. “The dedication and commitment of our education community is second to none.”