A national perspective

Local and state reports only go so far. Why compare, for example, a large, diverse urban district with the small, homogeneous suburban district next door? Far more meaningful comparisons of effectiveness can be made with other large diverse systems across the nation. FairCompare offers a national view, for a broader perspective and greater accuracy. The FairCompare report provides meaningful data about schools to help you evaluate the complex issues surrounding school system performance.

Focus on factors proven to influence achievement

Research has shown time and again that children need enriching, stimulating environments and nutritious diets to reach their full potential for learning. Two factors that indicate how likely children are to receive enough stimulation and good diets are the education level of adults around them (particularly their mothers) and the relative "wealth" of their families and communities (based on household incomes and community poverty rates). These are the primary characteristics we use to develop the list of similar schools for your FairCompare report.