Reading and math scores for high school students across the country have fallen to their lowest levels in decades, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, commonly known as “the nation’s report card.”
The report, which analyzed reading and mathematics performance among 8th and 12th graders, found that average scores have dropped to historic lows. Among 12th graders, 32% scored below a “basic” reading proficiency, the lowest since the exam began in 1992, and 45% scored below “basic” math proficiency, the lowest since 2005. Among 8th graders, 38% scored below “basic” on science subjects.
According to NAEP, just 33% of 12th-grade students are considered college-ready in math, and 35% in reading — both declines from 2019.
“Looking at these NAEP assessments, we see a clear story that tells us students need more support to thrive in school and succeed across core subjects and across grades,” said former North Carolina Gov. Beverly Perdue, the chair of the National Assessment Governing Board, in a statement.
“If policymakers and education leaders fail to act now, students — and employers — will feel the impact of declining skills and knowledge gaps as the global workforce becomes more and more competitive. That bodes badly for them and badly for our country,” she added.
“Despite spending billions annually on numerous K-12 programs, the achievement gap is widening, and more high school seniors are performing below the basic benchmark in math and reading than ever before,” Education Secretary Linda McMahon said in a statement.
“The lesson is clear. Success isn’t about how much money we spend, but who controls the money and where that money is invested. That’s why President Trump and I are committed to returning control of education to the states so they can innovate and meet each school and students’ unique needs,” she said.
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