The newest state report cards are highlighting the disconnect between education funding and academic achievement.
South Carolina and Illinois have just released their 2024-25 state report cards, and despite spending significantly less per pupil the red state is far outperforming the blue.
The Palmetto State reported 60% of its public students meeting or exceeding reading standards, as well as 45% in math, 50% in science and 46% in U.S. History and the Constitution. In comparison, reading scores were just 47% and math 39% in 2022.
South Carolina’s graduation rate also has hit a 10-year high of 87%.
State Superintendent Ellen Weaver credited the state’s success to setting high expectations.
