Skip to main content
Michigan’s nonpartisan, nonprofit news source

Your support can help us meet our year-end campaign goal!

We’re in the homestretch of our year-end fundraising campaign, and we’re so close to our goal. Your support of any amount means so much to us, and helps us inform Michigan’s residents and communities. Will you support the nonprofit, nonpartisan news that makes Michigan a better place? Make your tax-deductible contribution today!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate

How Minnesota and Michigan students compare on the NAEP


Michigan vs Minnesota

Michigan and Minnesota spend roughly the same amount per pupil, and yet the performance of Minnesota students on national tests is far superior to that of Michigan students, including low-income students. Proponents of the Minnesota system note that the North Star state budgets its money differently. Below, how students in the two states stack up on the NAEP, often called the nation’s report card.

4th grade math

8th grade math

All studentsAll students
Poor* studentsPoor students
Not poorNot poor
Black studentsBlack students
White studentsWhite students

4th grade reading

8th grade reading

All studentsAll students
Poor* studentsPoor students
Not poorNot poor
Black studentsBlack students
White studentsWhite students

Source: National Assessment of Educational Progress.

* Note: Students identified as poor are those eligible for a free or reduced lunch. Those identified as “not poor” are all other students.

How impactful was this article for you?

Michigan Education Watch

Michigan Education Watch is made possible by generous financial support from:

Subscribe to Michigan Health Watch

Only donate if we've informed you about important Michigan issues

See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:

  • “In order for this information to be accurate and unbiased it must be underwritten by its readers, not by special interests.” - Larry S.
  • “Not many other media sources report on the topics Bridge does.” - Susan B.
  • “Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days.” - Mark S.

If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate Now