‘False Hope’: Why NJ High Schoolers Aren’t Ready for College

September 15, 2026 | njspotlightnews.org

New Jersey officials often brag about the state’s average high school graduation rate of over 90%, leading parents and the public to believe that students are doing just fine. 

But it’s a mirage, says education analyst Chad Aldeman. In his new report, “False Hope: New Jersey kids aren’t ready for college,” he says the state achieved this milestone by weakening diploma requirements—lowering the passing score on the state exit exam and expanding alternative pathways to graduation.

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NJ SEED: Recognizing that today’s student population represents tomorrow’s workforce and business leaders, NJ SEED has established an education committee to monitor, study, an address education today. Readiness for continuing education beyond high school begins in the primary grades where the fundamentals of reading and math must be mastered.