Another thing to consider: our special education methods are definitely tops. Many children w/ learning obstacles are denied education in many of the countries we've already mentioned. Certainly they're not counted among the statistics in reading and math ability, whereas here they can be, provided they have the ability to take the test with only slight assistance. Most of us on here are above average and definitely helped "our side" boost the scores, but we have to take into account those that didn't because they couldn't. In France especially, the educational system is not for the faint of heart or the sensitive soul. While their system does great for overachievers (gives them even more drive) it's hell on kids w/ LD. While sure I think our system could use some tweaks, I'd say we're not too bad overall.
