A range of promising education, employment and housing statistics were announced this week that we want to make sure you are aware of. Taken together, the numbers are clear evidence that the Governor's strategic investments have positioned Massachusetts to come out of the recession stronger and faster than the rest of the country. Governor Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Murray understand, however, that many of our neighbors across the Commonwealth continue to struggle in this tough economy, and are working diligently to put everyone back to work.
- More Jobs: Statistics announced this morning show that Massachusetts added 1,700 jobs to the private sector in January. Our labor force -- measuring the number of people looking for work -- grew by 3,200 in the month. At 9.5 percent, the Massachusetts unemployment rate is lower than the national average, and we added jobs in several sectors, including transportation, health services, and education.
- Employers Optimistic: Yesterday, the Federal Reserve announced that its "Beige Book" survey found that realtors, technology firms and manufacturers across Massachusetts are restoring pay cuts, lifting wage freezes, and hiring new workers, due to a larger-than-expected increase in sales and demand. The survey concluded that manufacturers across the Commonwealth are optimistic about business conditions over the coming year.
- Dropout Rate Falls: The statewide high school dropout rate fell this year to less than three percent, marking the first time it has dipped below three percent in the past decade. The dropout rate for Hispanic students showed the biggest improvement, and the urban school districts of Fall River, Fitchburg, Lawrence, Everett, Haverhill, and Holyoke made impressive gains.
- Foreclosures Decline: In January, the number of foreclosures initiated by banks and other lenders dropped to its lowest level in more than a year. These promising numbers indicate that fewer families across the Commonwealth may lose their homes this year.
Governor Patrick knows that there are always people behind the numbers. The Governor is proud of the strides our Commonwealth has taken toward recovery, and he will continue to fight to put people back to work.
