Maryland’s public education system has been named the nation’s best overall for the third consecutive year by Education Week .  Education Week produces an annual report, evaluating the status of each states’ educational performance in six areas including, school finance and policies related to transition across stages of education.  The Washington Post reports:  

Maryland received a B-plus from the news outlet Education Week, a grade that took into account student achievement, school finance and various education policies. New York and Massachusetts, with B grades, were ranked second and third, respectively. Virginia, with a B-minus, placed fourth.

The District of Columbia ranked near the bottom with a grade of D-plus. The federal capital was included in the analysis even though the District is difficult to compare because it is not a state. The District ranked just ahead of last-place Nebraska.

Experts debate the merits of rankings of state school systems. Depending on the criteria for judging them, one state or another can rise to the top. Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) often boasted about the state’s top Education Week ranking last year in his reelection campaign.

“Our goal is create great educational opportunities for every child in every neighborhood in Maryland,” State Superintendent of Schools Nancy S. Grasmick said in a statement. “Recognition of our state’s track record of success is gratifying to all of us who work to strengthen our schools. . . . However, we have no intention of raising a victory flag as yet.”