New Hampshire students are toward the top of the nation in science, according to the National Assessment of Education Progress. In the organization’s 2009 Science Report Card, New Hampshire fourth graders placed first among all states, and New Hampshire eighth graders placed second. 

A total of 2,700 fourth graders and 2,600 eighth graders took the exam in New Hampshire, with possible scores ranging from 0 to 300. The results show that N.H. fourth graders tied four other states (Massachusetts, Virginia, Kentucky, and North Dakota) for the highest average score of 163. Eighth graders had an average score of 160, behind only North Dakota. The national average for both grades was 149.

Gov. John Lynch touted the results in a press release but vowed to continue working to improve New Hampshire’s schools.