Jackie Longo and Christopher Maynard

In the fall of 2022, more than 49 million studentswere enrolled in public elementary and secondary schools across the U.S. About 32% ended the last academic year performing below their current grade level in at least one subject. Unfortunately, many of these kids were afforded different levels of assistance to help bridge the gap. For instance, 13% of public schools didn’t provide academic tutoring, while only a little over half offered after-school instruction.

Liz Cohen, Georgetown University’s FutureEd policy director, told ConsumerAffairs that parents should consider many factors when deciding what school will best fit their child, as there can be significant differences among schools — even within the same state.

“Look at the school culture. How does the school feel? Is my child going to feel like they belong in that community?” Cohen said. “There are bright spots and wonderful schools in every state in this country,” she added.

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont told ConsumerAffairs he knows how vital schools are to a state’s overall success. “The success of our state is highly dependent upon the success of our schools,” he said. “Our administration remains committed to strengthening all the schools in our state so that every child — no matter their neighborhood or family income level — has the opportunity to receive an education that prepares them for achievement.”