School Districts Ranked Second Best in Country

School Districts Ranked Second Best in Country


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Sandra Yi ReportingFamilies looking to relocate may have a reason to move to Utah. The state's two largest school districts have ranked high on a national list, compiled by Forbes.com.

Forbes.com says if you compare three different variables some of Salt Lake City's public schools rank as some of the best in the country. While the magazine didn't look at test cores or other critical data, educators say it's still testimony they're doing something right.

Barry Newbold, Jordan School District Superintendent: "I think it's very flattering."

Educators say the recognition is remarkable. Salt Lake City, specifically the Granite and Jordan school districts, ranked second in a Forbes.com survey listing 'The Best Education in the Biggest Cities'.

Barry Newbold: "I think the Forbes report reinforces that Utah continues to be the best education value for the dollar anywhere in the country."

Educators say it's a noteworthy achievement, considering Utah has the lowest per-pupil spending in the country.

Barry Newbold: "I think we ought to be proud of this recognition and maybe even think about what we can do if we had more resources."

The survey looked at graduation rates, access to resources like museums and libraries, and average housing prices. Forbes says strong schools drive real estate and may ensure property value. Local realtors agree.

Superintendent Newbold says the reputation may also help boost Utah's economy. Good schools, he says, will draw businesses.

Barry Newbold: "Now that Forbes has said it's a great value there and students are going to get an education, that's a great reason for you to locate to Utah."

Utah has also been recognized for its high graduation rate. The Manhattan Institute for Policy Research, a think tank, ranked the state of Utah third in the country in 2000 for public school graduation rates. It was 86 percent.

Forbes.com List of ‘The Best Education in the Biggest Cities’
1. Boston
2. Salt Lake City (Granite, Jordan)
3. Raleigh, N.C.
4. New Orleans
5. Philadelphia
6. Austin, TX
7. Charlotte, N.C.
8. San Diego

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