The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) revealed record low scores for U.S. high school seniors in math and reading, marking a continued decline in public school performance. This is the first NAEP report since the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), only 22% of seniors were proficient in math-the lowest since the assessment began-and 35% were proficient in reading, the lowest score on record.
NCES Acting Commissioner Matthew Soldner stated, “Among our nation’s high school seniors, we’re now seeing a larger percentage of students scoring below the NAEP Basic achievement level in mathematics and reading than in any previous assessment.” Eighth-grade science scores also fell below 2019 levels, with just 31% proficient, erasing pre-pandemic gains. The assessment measured students’ science knowledge and inquiry skills in real-world contexts.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon expressed concern, saying, “Nearly half of America’s high school seniors are testing at below basic levels in math and reading.” She emphasized that “success isn’t about how much money we spend, but who controls the money and where that money is invested,” supporting efforts to return education control to states.
The White House highlighted that despite over $3 trillion spent since 1979 and a 245% increase in per-pupil spending, student outcomes have not improved. Vicky Murray of the Washington Policy Center advocated for parental choice and federal tax credits to support alternative education options.
Washington’s Superintendent Chris Reykdal is scheduled to discuss state assessment results soon.
Sources:
- The Center Square
- National Assessment of Educational Progress 2024 Report
- U.S. Department of Education News Release
- White House News Release
- Washington Policy Center Blog
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