The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) is a federal agency within the United States Department of Education. It serves as the primary governmental entity responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of education-related data and statistics. The agency's main objective is to provide accurate and reliable information to policymakers, researchers, educators, and the general public, in order to inform decision-making processes and contribute to the improvement of the nation's education system.
NCES conducts various surveys and assessments, covering a wide range of topics such as student achievement, graduation rates, school finance, enrollment data, educational attainment, and more. It works collaboratively with state education agencies, school districts, schools, and other educational institutions to gather comprehensive data and ensure its quality and integrity. Through its reports, publications, and online databases, NCES offers access to extensive data resources that support research, policy analysis, and program evaluation across the education landscape.
As a pivotal resource for education professionals and policymakers, NCES enables informed discussions and evidence-based decision-making. Its data and research findings serve as vital tools for understanding education trends, identifying areas of improvement, tracking progress, and developing effective policies and interventions. By centralizing and disseminating data, NCES supports transparency, accountability, and innovation within the education system, ultimately aiming to enhance educational opportunities and outcomes for all students.
