The makeup of Michigan's public schools vs. its top schools

The demographics of Michigan's top-performing high schools in U.S. News and World Report differ significantly from the state's overall student makeup, per local demographer Kurt Metzger — especially when it comes to Black and Asian students.

Just a fourth or less of the students at seven of the 10 schools are considered "economically disadvantaged," the Free Press reported . Meanwhile, across Michigan, 54% of students are seen as economically disadvantaged.

• The rankings are often criticized for giving badges to wealthy districts with stronger tax bases.

What they're saying: Analyzing schools by their socioeconomic composition and educational outcomes is important to show state leaders what's needed to close achievement gaps, Metzger, founder of Data Driven Detroit , tells Axios. Michigan is failing its students, he adds, especially students of color.

• "And we know Michigan's education … is one of the biggest problems for Michigan to attract people or grow."

Go deeper: Inequities remain in Michigan schools long after Brown v. Board