A recent report from the Department of Education, often referred to as the "Nation's Report Card," reveals a worrying trend in American students' academic abilities. The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) indicates a decline in reading skills since the COVID-19 pandemic, with minimal improvement in math. This assessment, administered to fourth and eighth graders nationwide, serves as a key indicator of the U.S. education system's health.
The findings show stagnant math scores for eighth graders compared to 2022, while reading scores dropped by two points for both fourth and eighth graders. Alarmingly, a third of eighth graders scored below the "basic" reading level, a historic high for the assessment. The Department of Education expressed concern, stating that despite significant federal investment in K-12 education and pandemic relief funds, the system is failing students.
A student raises their hand in a classroom at Tussahaw Elementary school. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Students classified as "below basic" lack fundamental skills. For instance, many eighth graders struggling with reading couldn't infer a character's motivation from a short story or understand the meaning of "industrious." Peggy Carr, commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics, expressed disappointment with the lack of progress in recovering from pandemic-related learning loss.
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While fourth-grade math scores saw a slight two-point increase, they remain below pre-pandemic levels. Some states and districts, like Washington, D.C., showed notable improvement, but overall progress remains limited. A concerning trend is the widening gap between high and low-performing students. While top performers regained some lost ground, the lowest-performing students continued to fall behind.
Children reading at their desk in a classroom. (Getty Images)
This year's tested students experienced disruptions during their early education due to the pandemic. However, experts believe factors beyond the pandemic contribute to the declining performance. A 2022 survey revealed a correlation between decreased reading for enjoyment and lower reading scores. Furthermore, chronic absenteeism, a nationwide issue, appears to be a significant factor impacting student achievement.
These findings reignite the debate surrounding the impact of pandemic school closures on student learning, although conclusive evidence remains scarce. The report underscores the complex challenges facing the American education system and the urgent need for effective solutions.
