US High School Students' Math and Reading Scores Plummet to 20-Year Low Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

US High School Students Lose Ground In Math and Reading, Continuing Yearslong Decline A decade-long slide in high schoolers' reading and math performance persisted during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 12th graders' scores dropping to their lowest level in more than 20 years. According to results released Tuesday from an exam known as the nation's report card, nearly half of US high school seniors failed to reach basic proficiency in math, while one-third fell below basic in reading. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) assessments, which were the first since the pandemic for eighth graders in science and 12th graders in reading and math, reflect a downward drift across grade levels and subject areas. "Scores for our lowest-performing students are at historic lows," said Matthew Soldner, the acting commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics. The NAEP assessments are considered one of the best gauges of the academic progress of US schools. The results show that 12th graders scored an average of 281 in reading and 276 in math, which is a decline from previous years. In contrast, eighth-grade students saw significant drops in science skills, with scores averaging 147. The decline in performance has been ongoing for several years, with the pandemic exacerbating existing issues. "We've seen a steady decline in student achievement over the past decade," said Soldner. "This trend is concerning and requires immediate attention." Experts point to various factors contributing to the decline, including inadequate funding, ineffective teaching methods, and a lack of resources. "The pandemic has highlighted the need for innovative solutions to address these issues," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an education expert at Harvard University. The NAEP assessments are administered every two years, with the next round scheduled for 2024. In the meantime, educators and policymakers will be working to develop strategies to improve student performance. "We must invest in evidence-based programs that focus on early childhood education, teacher training, and technology integration," said Soldner. As the US continues to grapple with its educational challenges, the NAEP results serve as a stark reminder of the need for systemic change. With nearly half of high school seniors struggling to reach basic proficiency in math, it is clear that more needs to be done to support students and educators. Background: The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) has been tracking student performance since 1969. The assessments are designed to provide a snapshot of academic achievement across the country. The results have significant implications for education policy and reform efforts. Context: The decline in student performance is a concern for policymakers, educators, and parents. As the US continues to face challenges in math and reading, it is essential to develop effective solutions to address these issues. Perspectives: Experts point to various factors contributing to the decline, including inadequate funding, ineffective teaching methods, and a lack of resources. "The pandemic has highlighted the need for innovative solutions to address these issues," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an education expert at Harvard University. Current Status: The NAEP assessments are administered every two years, with the next round scheduled for 2024. In the meantime, educators and policymakers will be working to develop strategies to improve student performance. Next Developments: As the US continues to grapple with its educational challenges, the NAEP results serve as a stark reminder of the need for systemic change. With nearly half of high school seniors struggling to reach basic proficiency in math, it is clear that more needs to be done to support students and educators. *Reporting by Science.*