Concern

Poor educational outcomes is a concern throughout the nation, and this state especially, as Nevada continues to rank very poorly in terms of educational funding and outcomes for all students. Earlier this year the "Quality Counts" education study revealed that Nevada ranks 48th in terms of per pupil funding. According to the U.S. Department of Education, only 23% of Nevada fourth-graders and 20% of eighth-graders were proficient or better in math; and just 20% of fourth-graders and 21% of eighth-graders were proficient or better in reading. Nevada also consistently ranks 48th or 49th in the nation in terms of the high school dropout rate. Foster children are especially at risk of experiencing difficulties in the educational system due to their unstable family situations, multiple school moves, and traumatic personal experiences.