A visual analysis of student outcomes, funding gaps, workforce challenges, and the path forward for Nevada's schools.
On national assessments, Nevada consistently scores below the U.S. average. Only about 25-30% of students are proficient in core subjects.
of Nevada 3rd graders read at grade level — a critical milestone that predicts high school graduation. In 2022, only about 1 in 4 fourth-graders scored proficient on reading exams.
of Nevada ACT-tested students met all four college-ready benchmarks (English, math, reading, science). Over 40% of university-bound graduates need remedial coursework.
Nevada's graduation rate climbed from 71% (2013) to 84% (2019), but the pandemic caused a setback, dropping to 81% by 2023.
Despite a record $2.6 billion budget boost in 2023, Nevada remains roughly 45th–49th in school funding nationally.
In 2021, Nevada implemented the Pupil-Centered Funding Plan, replacing a 1967 formula. It uses weights to direct more funds to students with greater needs:
While more transparent and equitable, experts say Nevada needs $3.2 billion more over 10 years to reach funding adequacy.
Recent 15–20% salary increases and hiring incentives have significantly reduced vacancies, but challenges remain in hard-to-staff areas.
Clark County went from ~1,500 vacancies (2022) to just 320 (2025)
Teacher turnover fell from ~12% to 8–9% year-over-year
Average pay increased from $57K (2019) to $67K (2024)
Chronic shortages continue despite extra stipends
Housing costs offset salary gains in Las Vegas and Reno
Remote areas still struggle to recruit and retain teachers
Achievement varies starkly by race, income, and geography. These longstanding gaps widened during the pandemic.
Black students score on average 29 points lower than White students on NAEP — equivalent to roughly 3 years of learning.
Clark County (Las Vegas) educates ~65% of Nevada's students and faces concentrated poverty, high ELL populations, and overcrowded schools. Some high schools operate at 128% capacity.
Rural districts struggle with limited course offerings, teacher vacancies, and technology gaps. However, close-knit communities often achieve higher graduation rates through personalized support.
Nevada invests little in early childhood and loses students at every stage of the education pipeline.
Percentage of 4-year-olds enrolled in state-funded pre-K
Only about 44% of Nevada high school graduates enroll in college immediately, and many who do need remedial coursework.
Nevada stands at a crossroads. With sustained investment and strategic focus, progress is possible.
Several Nevada schools and programs have achieved exceptional results despite challenges: