ST. PAUL, MN – Minnesota is the 4th-best state in the nation for overall child well-being, according to the latest KIDSCOUNT Data Book from the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Effective state and local investments have contributed to the better educations, health, and economic well-being of children in Minnesota. However, not all of Minnesota’s children share equally in those improvements, as the state continues to face persistent disparities in health, education, and economic outcomes for children of color.  

 

“Minnesota, once again, shows its strength in helping those—particularly children—who are struggling,” said Human Services Commissioner Emily Piper. “We’re pleased with our high ranking and improvements in the past few years, particularly for fewer children living in poverty and greater access to health care—but, as the governor notes, our work is far from done, particularly for children of color and American Indian children who often don’t fare nearly as well in these rankings. We must continue to focus our attention on bettering Minnesota for all Minnesotans.”

 

The Data Book examines overall child well-being, and bases its state rankings on 16 indicators in four categories: economic well-being, education, health, and family and community. This year, Minnesota ranked 5th in economic well-being, 6th in health, 11th in education, and 5th in family and community. Overall, Minnesota ranked 4th in the nation in child well-being.

 

To read more about this year’s KIDSCOUNT Data Book, CLICK HERE. To read Minnesota’s KIDSCOUNT Profile, CLICK HERE.