Nation’s Report Card reveals declining average reading level

Federal data on American students’ learning levels was released yesterday, showing a steady decline in reading and stagnant math skills among schoolgoers.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), often called the Nation’s Report Card, found reading scores declined in both fourth and eighth grades, while eighth-grade math scores remained stagnant.

The findings highlight persistent post-pandemic struggles and widening gaps between high- and low-performing students.

The data sparked political debates, with public school advocates calling for more support while conservatives arguing the education system is failing despite $190 billion in pandemic relief funds.

Silver lining
Fourth-grade math scores improved by 2 points, with Washington DC gaining 10 points. Louisiana and Alabama have returned to pre-pandemic levels in reading and math, respectively, thanks to targeted recovery efforts like intensive tutoring.

Officials blame chronic absenteeism and declining reading habits, warning that poor performance can no longer be solely attributed to the pandemic.