Improving the quality of the public schools is among the top priorities for residents in the Mid-Hudson region. This concern now ranks fourth, overall, among Mid-Hudson Valley residents, representing a slight shift in priorities from 2002 when it was the number two goal. This change in ranking reflects a heightened interest in other issues as opposed to a decline in residents’ concern for education. The average score for improving the quality of the public schools has remained steady at 7.8 out of 10 the same average rating it received in 2002.
Public education ranks among the four highest priorities in every county except Sullivan County where it is sixth. Education is a number two priority in Greene and Ulster Counties and ranks third in Dutchess County.
Improving schools is an important priority for many Mid-Hudson Valley residents. Not surprisingly, it continues to be the number one priority among residents with children.
The need to improve public schools is a leading issue for adults under the age of thirty. Although older residents do not rank this issue as highly as they do other concerns, it ranks among the top ten priorities for them, as well.
Five years ago, public education was the top priority for both African American and Latino residents. It is still the most important issue for Latinos who rate improving public schools with an average score of 8.4 out of 10. The need to improve public education is now the third ranked priority for African American residents with an average rating of 8.6.
Improving the quality of the public schools ranks fourth among white residents and receives an average score of 7.7 out of 10.
