Statistics are very slippery animals, you can usually find some to prove whatever you want to prove. You stated Alabama had a higher graduation rate than Oregon, someone else said Alabama standards are lower, probably true but it bears more research. SAT stats depend on several different things, including what grade the students are in, and their background.  Those who are interested in making education better are interested in MORE THAN 'winning' an argument, or insulting those with opposite views.