Want to know how Florida stacks up next to its 15 Southern neighbors and the rest of the country? The latest progress report from the Southern Regional Education Board is out this morning, and it is always good for context. You'll find, for example, that Florida's average SAT scores are below national and regional averages. But that its college graduation rates are higher.

Much of this data can be found elsewhere (like NAEP scores and grad rates) and much has been reported. But SREB puts it all in one tidy package. It also includes a number of indicators that don't make the papers often, like college enrollment rates (Florida suffers by comparison) and participation in adult education classes (Florida shines by comparison).

Bottom line, according to SREB: "Florida is making solid progress in education, but just as in every state, much work remains to be done," SREB President Dave Spence said in a press release.

- Ron Matus, state education reporter